FAQs

Does the Fellowship have any affiliation to any denomination?

CLF is a non-denominational independent church which seeks to relate to and interact with other bible believing churches.

What do you see as the role of women in the church?

Women are called by God to minister and function in the body of Christ. The scriptures are clear that there is no difference in worth between man and woman in God’s sight (Galatians 3:26-28). However, God’s ideal is for men to occupy the main leadership/headship roles in their homes and in the church. (Genesis 2:18-24, 1 Corinthians 11:3, 7-8 1Timothy 2:11, 3:4-5) For this reason, governmental authority and responsibility in the church is normally reserved for men (1Timothy 3:2). Women participate in leadership of different ministries, which do not involve governmental authority and teaching/instruction in doctrine. Women are also encouraged to minister spiritual gifts, teach younger women, serve those who minister, instruct and exhort others.

Does CLF believe in Tithing?

The New Testament does not stipulate a fixed percentage for what Christians should give, but it does teach the importance of regular giving in proportion to God’s blessing. Giving should be disciplined, purposeful, and cheerful, (2 Corinthians 8:12, 9:6-7). Many Christian use the tithes as a guideline and as a minimum percentage to give to the work of the church on a regular basis.

Why doesn’t CLF have a single pastor?

Our conviction is that churches should be governed by a plurality of elders (Acts 14:23, 20:17, James 5:14, 1 Peter 5:1-2, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 20-28) whose role is to shepherd/pastor God’s people. The benefits of plurality are great and it provides much protection for the body. It is important if plurality of eldership is to function effectively, that there be clear recognition of God’s grace on individuals in the team to perform specific functions.

What church ordinances are observed by CLF?

According to the New Testament the ordinances commanded by the Lord for observation in the church are: (i) Water Baptism & (ii) Breaking of Bread or Communion (Acts 2:38 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). We do not observe these as mere rituals but a response of obedience to God’s word. We believe in Water Baptism by immersion as an outward representation of our death, burial and resurrection in Christ and as a testimony of our turning from a life of sin to follow Christ. Breaking of Bread is a time of intimate fellowship or communion with the Lord and each other, in which we remember the work of Christ on the Cross and partake by faith in the benefit of redemption.