Hamilton Smith (1862-1943), born in Barnes, Surrey, started work in the office of his uncle's building firm. By 1901, married and with a young family, he had retired from the building trade and entered full-time upon the task of building up the church of God. His personal ministry was delivered in the United Kingdom, but his written ministry is still read worldwide. His writings are brief, clear and very much to the point. Like much of his writing, the contents of this volume first appeared as a series of articles in "Scripture Truth" magazine. "Without Scriptural thoughts as to the truth of the great mystery concerning Christ and the Church we shall not be able intelligently to enjoy Christian fellowship, take up the service of the Lord, or even fulfil the ordinary duties of life". With this in mind, the author provides a systematic exposition of Biblical teaching on the Church: its prediction and establishment; God's ultimate and present plans for it; regulations for its administration; and lessons from its consideration as the house of God and the body of Christ. The book ends with practical instructions for the 21st century Christian.