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Who we are
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- Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning again, we want you to feel at home.
At the Merced Church of Christ, we are simply Christians—members of the Lord’s Church you read about in the New Testament.
We strive to follow the pattern revealed in Scripture, using the Bible alone as our guide. Our unity is grounded not in human tradition, but in what God’s Word teaches as essential:
“There is one body, and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all…” Ephesians 4:4–6
In matters of personal opinion or conscience, we extend grace and liberty, trusting each individual to walk with God in sincerity and truth:
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations… So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God… Hast thou faith? Have it to thyself before God." Romans 14:1, 12, 22
And in everything, we strive to practice love above all:
“Though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.”
1 Corinthians 13:2
Our aim is to glorify Jesus Christ, not ourselves. We believe the church belongs to Him, and our desire is to exalt Him in all that we do:
“Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3:21
For this reason, our faith rests not on any man or religious institution, but in the power and wisdom of God:
“That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:5
What to Expect When You Visit
Our worship assemblies are simple, reverent, and rooted in the New Testament pattern. We come together to sing praises to God—without instrumental accompaniment—just as the early Christians did (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). We pray together (1 Timothy 2:1), partake of the Lord’s Supper every first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23–29), and hear preaching from the Word of God.
Jesus said,
Jesus said,
"Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
John 17:17
That’s why everything we teach and practice is measured against the Bible. If it’s not found in God’s Word, we won’t bind it. And if it is, we joyfully follow it.
No Pressure—Just an Invitation
As our guest, nothing is expected of you. You're welcome to observe, worship with us, or ask any questions you may have. If you’d like, we invite you to fill out a visitor card or sign our guest book so we can personally thank you for being with us.
Who Will You Find Here?
You’ll find people from all walks of life—young and old, new believers and long-time Christians. None of us are perfect. We all fall short, and we’re all here because we need the grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.
“They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick… I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Mark 2:17
"The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.”
1 John 1:7
We are a spiritual family, walking together in faith, helping one another grow, and striving to live lives that reflect the love and truth of Christ.
How Is the Church Supported?
Our congregation is supported solely by the freewill offerings of its members, given each first day of the week (1 Corinthians 16:1–2; 2 Corinthians 8:1–5; 9:6–7). These contributions go toward the work of the church—spreading the gospel, strengthening believers, and helping those in need. We believe the local church is fully equipped to carry out the mission God has given it. Other good works, while important, are the responsibility of individual Christians (Titus 2:11–14; James 1:27; Galatians 6:9–10).
We’d Love to Study With You
- “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
- Proverbs 27:17
For over 70 years, the Merced Church of Christ has been preaching and teaching the message of Jesus. Our diverse and growing membership is a living testimony to the unity found in God’s grace.
And there’s a place here for you.
You don’t have to worry about fitting in—because here, you already do.