Church
The church is the people of God gathered under Christ for worship, discipleship, witness, and mission.
Formal Definition
The church is the redeemed community belonging to Jesus Christ, called out by the gospel and formed into a worshiping, witnessing, and discipling body.
Key Scriptures
Matthew 16:18
Acts 2:42–47
1 Corinthians 12
Ephesians 2:11–22
Acts 2:42–47
1 Corinthians 12
Ephesians 2:11–22
Explanation
The church is not merely an institution or a weekly event. It is the covenant people of God, united to Christ, indwelt by the Spirit, and called to embody the life of the kingdom in the world.
Scripture Index
Matthew 16:18
Acts 2:42–47
1 Corinthians 12
Ephesians 4:1–16
1 Peter 2:9–10
Acts 2:42–47
1 Corinthians 12
Ephesians 4:1–16
1 Peter 2:9–10
Subtopics
Universal church
Local church
Worship
Mission
Discipleship
Local church
Worship
Mission
Discipleship
Application / Why It Matters
Believers are not meant to live the Christian life in isolation. The church is the ordinary context for growth, accountability, and mission.
Historical / Church Reflection
Ecclesiology has developed through reflection on worship, sacraments, leadership, and the marks of the true church.
Viewpoints / Debates
Debates include polity, sacraments or ordinances, and the relation between local congregations and the wider church.