Iglecrecimiento. 2026-I 28 Marzo 2026

Instituto Teológico Internacional: The Foundation of the Church

Importance of Biblical Foundations

• The speaker emphasizes that the foundation of the church must be rooted in scripture, warning against interpretations influenced by personal beliefs or external influences like Satan.

• It is highlighted that true growth and foundation lie within the gospel and preaching of the word, stressing the responsibility to teach biblical truths without compromise.

• The speaker notes that failing to establish a solid scriptural foundation can jeopardize salvation for those being taught, underscoring a significant responsibility for Christians.

Christ as the Foundation

• Discussion points out that the church should not be based on human ideas but rather on God's design, as seen in scripture where Jesus speaks about building His church.

• Reference is made to Matthew 16:18 and Matthew 18:17, which discuss who builds the church and its disciplinary aspects, emphasizing Christ's role over human authority.

Key Principles from Scripture

• The speaker mentions two fundamental principles regarding church governance found in Matthew 16:17-18, focusing on understanding Christ as the rock upon which everything is built.

• A brief summary indicates that recognizing Christ as foundational helps clarify pastoral identity and responsibilities within the church context.

The Role of Teaching in Spiritual Growth

Essential Teachings for Generations

• Maria Angelica Tejada highlights 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 as crucial for instilling foundational truths about Christ’s death and resurrection into future generations.

Solid Foundations Lead to Strong Growth

• Emphasis is placed on how establishing Christ as the cornerstone ensures a solid structure for spiritual growth within the church community.

Understanding Cornerstone Concepts

Significance of Christ as Cornerstone

• Claudia Lopez explains that just like a cornerstone determines a building's position and direction, having Christ at our life's center provides guidance and stability.

Risks of Weak Foundations

• If a church lacks Christ as its foundation, it risks spiritual ruin despite potentially having many members; this reflects an absence of holiness among believers.

Identity Through Foundation

Strengthening Identity with Christ

• Carlos Andrés Rengifo Henao asserts that identity in Christ strengthens any edifice; without Him, destruction looms over any establishment.

Building Directionality

• Reinforcement comes from understanding how foundational stones dictate both position and direction in construction—parallels drawn to spiritual life.

Christ as Central Figure

Exploring Architectural Metaphors

• Jaime Ramirez shares insights about architectural elements related to churches while reinforcing discussions around foundations centered on Jesus.

The Foundation of the Church: Christ as the Cornerstone

The Importance of the Cornerstone

• The concept of a cornerstone is illustrated through historical examples, such as Catholic constructions and Roman bridges, emphasizing that without this final stone, structures would collapse.

• Jesus Christ is identified as this cornerstone; He is essential for the church's foundation, indicating that without Him, there can be no true edifice.

Characteristics of the Church

• Mauro Neva introduces a discussion on five key characteristics related to the Church of Christ, highlighting its foundation on Christ as the rock.

• The relationship between Christ (the cornerstone) and His body (the church) is crucial; if separated from this foundation, it becomes impossible to build a holy congregation.

Relationship Between Christ and His Church

• Emphasis is placed on how Jesus stated that His church would be built upon Him rather than Peter; thus, He remains central to its structure.

• The church is referred to as the body of Christ with Him being its head. This analogy underscores that separation from Christ leads to dysfunction within the church.

Understanding Position and Direction in Faith

• It’s concluded that Jesus serves both as the beginning and end for believers; everything starts and ends with Him.

• A metaphor about a body walking without a head illustrates how absurd it would be for Christians or churches to operate independently from Christ.

Challenges Facing Modern Christianity

• There are concerns regarding churches attempting to function without acknowledging their dependence on Christ, leading to ineffective practices.

• Criticism arises over sermons focusing more on blessings rather than centering around Jesus Himself; this reflects a broader trend in contemporary worship settings.

Living Out Christian Identity

• Believers are reminded that their identity in faith must be rooted in Christ—He should guide both their position (foundation) and direction (leadership).

• A critique of modern "buffet-style" Christianity suggests many choose teachings they prefer while neglecting core truths centered around Jesus.

Discussion on Spiritual Maturity and Commitment

The Nature of Modern Believers

• Many self-identified Christians or evangelicals selectively engage with their faith, favoring aspects that are pleasing while rejecting those that challenge them.

• There is a tendency among believers to avoid commitment to any specific church, leading to a lack of spiritual growth and fruitfulness where God has placed them.

Call for Growth and Maturity

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of growing and maturing in faith, suggesting that many believers shy away from deeper teachings due to discomfort.

• A critique is made about the current state of the church, which seems more focused on entertainment rather than genuine spiritual formation.

Consumer Mentality in Faith

• Believers often pick and choose elements from various churches based on personal preference, likening it to a buffet where they select what appeals to them.

• This consumer approach leads to a superficial engagement with faith, as individuals prefer comfort over commitment.

Average Spiritual Engagement

• The concept of "average" is discussed as detrimental; many believers operate at minimal levels of prayer, study, and commitment.

• The speaker reflects on how this average mentality manifests in half-hearted responses towards responsibilities within the church community.

Consequences of Lack of Commitment

• When churches prioritize ease over responsibility, they risk becoming filled with members who are not genuinely committed or grounded in their faith.

• The discussion includes examples of modern churches designed for convenience rather than true worship or discipleship.

Commercial Spaces and Sunday Worship

The Role of Commercial Spaces in Sunday Activities

• Discussion on commercial spaces like Sears, likened to Falabella or Walmart, indicating their influence on Sunday activities.

• Emphasis on the variety of worship services available, including traditional and contemporary styles, encouraging church attendance over leisure activities.

Understanding the Significance of Sunday

• Clarification that "the Day of the Lord" is not merely a day for rest but a time for service and connection with God.

• Assertion that believers should embody Christ's nature through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing authenticity in faith.

Who Are You as an Evangelical?

Reflection on Identity in Faith

• Introduction to a teaching session focused on self-identification as evangelicals.

• Mention of Palm Sunday celebrations and how many preachers will focus solely on triumph without addressing deeper issues.

The Reality of Faithful Living

• Contrast between initial enthusiasm during Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and later abandonment at the cross.

• Call for genuine commitment to faith beyond superficial expressions during celebrations.

The True Nature of Discipleship

Commitment vs. Convenience

• Challenge posed to attendees about their true relationship with Christ; questioning if they are genuinely committed or just attending out of habit.

• Highlighting miracles preceding Jesus' triumphal entry as evidence of His grace and mercy before facing rejection.

The Cost of Following Christ

• Discussion about expectations versus reality in discipleship; many abandon faith when it requires sacrifice or responsibility.

Building Upon the Rock: A Call to Action

Foundations of Faith

• Importance placed on having a solid foundation (the Rock), which is essential for true Christian living.

Historical Context and Modern Implications

• Reference to early Christians’ commitment levels; they were fully devoted to serving within their communities.

Privileges vs. Responsibilities

Understanding True Christian Life

• Notion that while privileges exist in faith, responsibilities must also be embraced for authentic Christianity.

The Shift from Popularity to Authenticity

• Recognition that many followers prioritize personal benefits over fulfilling their responsibilities as Christians.

Understanding Our Relationship with Christ

The Role of Christ as Our Foundation

• The speaker emphasizes that when we are built upon Christ, His guidance transforms our perception of His commandments from burdensome to liberating.

• A personal anecdote is shared about dealing with difficult relationships, highlighting the importance of taking time for self-reflection and prayer rather than evading issues.

• Humor is used to illustrate the absurdity of avoiding problems by creating distractions instead of addressing them directly.

• The speaker encourages prayer as a powerful tool in overcoming challenges within relationships, emphasizing perseverance and reliance on Christ as our rock.

• A poignant reflection on God's grace and mercy is presented, comparing it to the story of the ten lepers, where only one returned to express gratitude.

Understanding Our Position in Christ

• The speaker humorously imagines Jesus' surprise at the lack of gratitude from nine lepers, illustrating how we often forget to acknowledge His blessings.

• It’s noted that when we do not recognize Christ as our head, we may focus more on what He can provide rather than understanding our true identity in Him.

• The second principle discussed involves recognizing the relationship between Christ (the foundation) and believers (the body), stressing that both must be aligned for growth.

Building Upon the Right Foundation

• An interactive discussion occurs regarding understanding that Christ is both the foundation and head of the church; this relationship is crucial for spiritual edification.

• The speaker asserts that this concept isn't merely an invention but rooted in biblical teachings about Christ's role in building His church.

• Transitioning into discussing church growth, it’s highlighted that a solid foundation leads to effective development within a congregation.

Promises Made by God

• Questions arise about who receives promises from God concerning church construction; it's clarified that these promises are directed towards His church.

• Emphasis is placed on acknowledging Jesus’ declaration: "I will build my church," reinforcing that He alone is responsible for its establishment.

This structured approach captures key insights while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific moments in the transcript.

How to Build the Church According to God's Design

The Role of God in Building the Church

• The speaker emphasizes that God is the architect of the church, and believers should approach Him humbly, asking how they can serve in His plan.

• Reference to Job highlights God's sovereignty; He sets boundaries and directs the building of His church without needing human advice or counsel.

Understanding Our Roles

• The speaker identifies himself as a "builder" (albañil), contrasting this with those who desire to be seen as architects, driven by ego rather than service.

• A humorous critique is made about individuals who flaunt their qualifications while avoiding humble roles, suggesting that true service requires humility.

Challenges in Modern Ministry

• The speaker reflects on societal attitudes towards labor, noting that many avoid being called builders due to pride and a desire for recognition.

• Personal anecdote shared about his early experience in construction illustrates the value of hard work and humility in ministry.

Historical Context of Builders

• Comparison made between modern expectations of comfort and safety versus historical builders who worked under harsh conditions without protective gear.

• Cites Hebrews 11:30 onwards to illustrate the strength and resilience of biblical figures who faced persecution without modern conveniences.

Call to Action for Believers

• Urges listeners to prepare for Christ's second coming by embodying true servitude and dedication in building God's church.

• Emphasizes that resources given by God should be used for collective growth within the body of Christ, not just personal gain.

Discussion on Church Resources and Construction

Importance of Community and Resources

• Mauro Neva mentions the use of software to register attendees, highlighting the importance of organization in community gatherings.

• The conversation touches on financial resources needed for church activities, emphasizing that spiritual growth also requires material support.

• Liliana Miranda discusses using personal talents and gifts to serve the church, indicating that contributions can come from various locations, even as far as Alaska.

Active Participation in Church Activities

• Mauro Neva stresses the need for proactive engagement from church members, encouraging them to offer help when needed rather than waiting to be asked.

• He recalls his experience in construction work, illustrating how teamwork is essential in building both physically and spiritually within the church community.

Understanding Christ's Role in Church Building

• The discussion shifts towards recognizing Christ as the ultimate builder of the church, prompting questions about when this construction began and its characteristics.

• It is noted that the church was not a backup plan due to Israel's failures but was part of God's eternal purpose from before creation.

Biblical Foundations of Church Inclusion

• The speaker explains that Gentiles are grafted into God's plan through Christ, contrasting with original branches (Israel), which may not bear fruit.

• This metaphor illustrates how God incorporates diverse groups into His family through faith in Jesus.

Doctrinal Clarity on Election and Redemption

• The idea is presented that God's intention for the church existed before time began; believers were chosen long ago for inclusion.

• Emphasis is placed on Christ choosing and redeeming His people with His blood—this foundational doctrine serves as a safeguard against false teachings.

Discussion on Spiritual Freedom and Service

The Concept of Being Bought at a Price

• Mauro Neva emphasizes the importance of being spiritually renewed, invoking divine blessing to return to a previous state of grace.

• Maria Angelica Tejada Rendon cites 1 Corinthians 6:20, highlighting that believers have been bought at a price and should glorify God in their bodies and spirits.

Glorifying God Through Actions

• Clara discusses how being bought by Christ's blood calls for glorification through physical conduct, availability, and the use of spiritual gifts.

• The speaker mentions the need for both physical disposition (like work ethic) and spiritual readiness (gifts from the Holy Spirit).

Freedom from Slavery to Sin

• Mauro Neva reiterates that believers are not to become slaves to men but rather free to serve God, emphasizing freedom from sin as a key purpose of salvation.

• He critiques societal pressures that can lead individuals into servitude rather than service.

Work as a Blessing

• Neva acknowledges work as a blessing but warns against becoming enslaved by it. He references biblical teachings about labor being part of God's plan post-fall.

Women in Leadership Roles

• Mauro Neva addresses gender roles within church leadership, advocating for women's contributions while challenging traditional views on female pastors.

• He affirms the value of women in ministry, citing historical examples where women supported Jesus' ministry financially and spiritually.

The Value of Women in Faith

The Role of Women in the Resurrection Narrative

• The first witnesses to the empty tomb were women, who acted decisively rather than passively. They are portrayed as valuable and empowered figures, challenging traditional gender roles.

Empowerment Through Christ

• Women are encouraged to recognize their worth and intelligence, emphasizing that they should not be silenced by patriarchal attitudes. Their role is vital in guiding others towards truth.

Dependence on Christ

• A woman's true dependence is on Christ rather than on men. This perspective shifts the focus from human relationships to spiritual reliance, reinforcing their inherent value.

Inherent Worth Recognized by Christ

• Women's value is established through their selection by Christ; no external validation from husbands or society is necessary. They come with intrinsic worth as chosen individuals.

Responsibilities of Husbands

• Husbands are called to love, respect, and care for their wives, acknowledging that women already possess value independent of male approval.

The Church's Composition and Doctrine

Care for the Congregation

• Emphasis on mutual care within the church community extends to women, highlighting their integral role in spiritual leadership and guidance.

Biblical Foundation for Inclusion

• Disagreement exists regarding women's roles in church settings; however, it’s asserted that scripture does not limit God's calling to men alone but includes all believers.

Understanding Church Structure

• The church comprises both men and women who have been called out from darkness into light. This collective identity emphasizes equality among members regardless of gender.

Etymology of 'Church' and Its Implications

Definition of 'Ekklesia'

• The term "church" derives from the Greek word "ekklesia," meaning those called out. This definition underscores a communal aspect where all members are valued equally.

Transition from Darkness to Light

• Believers transition from worldly influences (darkness) into a divine realm (light), signifying a fundamental change in identity upon accepting faith.

This structured summary captures key insights while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific parts of the transcript.

Understanding Our Calling in Christ

The Call to Holiness

• The discussion begins with a reference to Romans 1:7, emphasizing that all believers are called to be saints and part of the body of Christ.

• The central theme is the concept of being "called," highlighting that God builds His church on those He has called, establishing Jesus as the cornerstone.

• It is noted that Jesus is the head of the body (the church), directing those who are called, which implies both position and direction in their spiritual journey.

God's Plan for Each Individual

• Emphasis is placed on God's preordained plan for each believer, suggesting that no one is a result of chance; everyone has a purpose designed by God from before creation.

• A reflective question arises about personal alignment with God's plans, urging individuals to consider if they truly recognize Jesus as their Savior and Governor.

The Role of Women in Ministry

• There’s a critique regarding individuals who occupy space within the church without actively contributing their gifts or talents, particularly addressing gender roles in ministry.

• A historical anecdote illustrates societal biases against women, questioning why some would prefer an impure animal over a female child, reflecting deep-seated cultural issues.

Challenges Faced by Women

• The speaker expresses sadness over the lack of recognition for talented women in ministry and how societal expectations can hinder their contributions.

• It’s suggested that many women may feel constrained by their roles as wives or partners rather than relying solely on Christ for support and guidance.

Importance of Holiness in Edification

• The call to holiness is reiterated as foundational for building up the church; holiness serves as both a base and guiding principle for believers' lives.

• It concludes with an affirmation that God directs His people from a place of holiness, reinforcing its significance in both individual lives and collective church growth.

The Importance of Holiness in the Body of Christ

The Role of Holiness in Church Structure

• Holiness is likened to bricks that build a solid structure within the body of Christ, emphasizing its importance for spiritual strength and direction.

• When holiness is present, it allows God to guide effectively, similar to how a healthy liver supports overall bodily function. If holiness is lacking, it negatively impacts the entire body.

Individual vs. Collective Holiness

• Each member's individual holiness contributes to the collective sanctity of the church; if one member lacks holiness, it affects everyone else. This starts from one's home environment.

• The speaker stresses that being knowledgeable or eloquent does not substitute for personal holiness; true discipleship begins at home and extends outward.

Leadership and Accountability

• Leaders are called to shepherd their congregations with integrity and should not compromise their standards for those who do not align with biblical teachings (referred to as "goats" versus "sheep"). Pastors must remain faithful to scripture without adapting their message for convenience.

• There’s an emphasis on discipline within the church community; members must show genuine change rather than merely switching congregations when faced with accountability issues.

Adorning Doctrine through Conduct

• The Apostle Paul instructs that good conduct—being compliant, honest, and showing faith—adorns Christian doctrine, making it appealing and reflective of Christ's teachings. This involves recognizing Jesus as both Savior and Lord in daily life.

• The term "adorn" comes from Greek origins related to cosmetics but refers here to inner beauty rather than superficial appearances; true adornment reflects character rather than mere external presentation.

Misconceptions about Appearance

• The discussion clarifies that using cosmetics or maintaining appearance is not inherently wrong but should be done tastefully and respectfully within congregational norms; excessive focus on appearance can detract from spiritual integrity.

• Members are encouraged to adhere to their congregation's standards regarding appearance while understanding that true beauty lies in character and faithfulness rather than just physical looks.

Insights on Marriage and Personal Relationships

The Role of Appearance in Marriage

• Discussion on personal preferences regarding appearance within marriage, highlighting that some partners enjoy seeing their spouses in a natural state while others prefer them made up.

• Emphasis on communication between partners about what they like, showcasing the importance of mutual understanding and consideration in relationships.

Conflict Resolution and Understanding

• Reflection on how disagreements can arise over personal tastes (e.g., clothing choices), but these should be approached with calmness and respect for each other's opinions.

• Acknowledgment that despite differences, couples can maintain harmony by recognizing their shared commitment to their relationship.

Spiritual Foundation of Marriage

• Importance of understanding one's calling in marriage, emphasizing that Christ's sacrifice is central to the union and should guide behavior towards one another.

• The concept of holiness in marriage is introduced, suggesting that love should manifest as respect rather than insults or disdain.

Serving Each Other and the Church

• Encouragement for individuals to serve as instruments for building up both their marriages and the church community, stressing the need for selflessness.

• Reference to biblical teachings about presenting oneself without blemish, linking personal conduct to broader spiritual responsibilities.

Embellishing Relationships through Repentance

• Insight into how acknowledging mistakes and seeking forgiveness enhances both marital relationships and church communities.

• Discussion on how conflicts can lead to growth when handled properly; repentance is seen as a way to beautify relationships rather than detract from them.

Final Thoughts on Relationship Dynamics

• A light-hearted moment where participants engage with the speaker’s insights, indicating a shared understanding among listeners about the importance of these principles.

• Concluding thoughts emphasize humility in relationships; letting go of ego is crucial for fostering healthy interactions within marriages.

Discussion on Spiritual Growth and Church Engagement

Importance of Personal and Marital Growth

• Caroline Vilela emphasizes the significance of personal and marital growth within the context of church life, highlighting that these aspects contribute to the overall decorum and beautification of the Church.

Reflection on Teaching Effectiveness

• Mauro Neva expresses gratitude for the session, hoping it has been a blessing. He encourages attendees to reflect on their learning experience rather than merely enjoying a beautiful teaching without actionable insights.

Critique of Superficial Engagement

• Neva critiques those who waste time in discussions that lack substance, likening such behavior to stealing precious moments from others' lives. He urges participants to avoid superficial expressions during teachings.

Upcoming Presentations and Responsibilities

• Mauro Neva announces upcoming presentations by Carlos Andrés Rengifo Henao and María Angélica Tejada Rendón, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation and diligence in their teaching roles.

Call for Prayer and Dedication

• Neva encourages attendees to pray, study diligently, and enjoy their congregational activities while also taking time for rest. He expresses appreciation for their respect towards him as an instructor.

Closing Prayer and Reflection on Purpose

• In his closing prayer, Neva thanks God for the powerful course material that prompts reflection and action among students. He stresses the importance of being directed by God in building a strong church community.

Commitment to Service

• Neva prays for guidance in building a church founded on service through deacons and other leaders, aiming to reach as many people as possible with God's message.

Acknowledgment of Students' Efforts

• The speaker acknowledges both local and distant students' dedication to their studies, expressing gratitude for being called into service by God.