Introduction: The Doctrine of the Church
Biblical religion is essentially corporate. God’s covenant extended beyond the individual to include their descendants and the whole world. The doctrine of the church emphasizes that the believing community is the environment in which personal faith grows and is nourished. The messianic hope introduced in the Old Testament has a corporate dimension. Figures such as the Son of Man and the suffering servant represent both individual and corporate roles, and blessings promised to Israel extended to their descendants in obedience.
The New Testament continues this corporateness when Jesus gathered the twelve disciples to be the nucleus of the new Israel and spoke of a church that would rise beyond his ministry. Pentecost was a corporate event, and as the gospel spread, disciples formed churches in different population centers. Acts 11:26 mentions a church at Antioch, and Acts 15:14 shows God’s care for the Gentiles by taking from among them a people to belong to Him. Biblical religion is therefore inherently communal rather than solitary.
What Is the Church?
The Greek word translated as church is Ekklesia, meaning “called out.” In the New Testament, it refers both to local congregations and the worldwide people of God. The church is composed of those who have been called out for the service of God (Matthew 16:18; Acts 8:1; Romans 11:16).
The church is described in Scripture using several metaphors, reflecting its spiritual, relational, and functional dimensions. It is the people of God, inheriting the promises made to Israel through the New Covenant in Christ (Matthew 26:28; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:15). It is the body of Christ, emphasizing the relationship between Christ and His people, where all life and nourishment flow from Him (Romans 12:15; 1 Corinthians 12:27). It is also the bride of Christ, reflecting God’s unqualified love and the requirement for single-minded devotion (Isaiah 54:5–8; Ephesians 5:27; Revelation 19:7). The church is the building of God, with Christ as the cornerstone, highlighting the spiritual character of believers as living stones (Exodus 25:8–22; 1 Peter 2:5; Ephesians 2:22). Other images, such as the kingdom of God, the family of God, the flock of God, and the vineyard of God, illustrate the church’s role in God’s rule, dependence on Christ, and fruitfulness in the world (John 15:1–8; Romans 14:17; Ephesians 2:19).
Also Read Who Is Man? A Biblical Doctrine of Humanity and Sin
The Different Meanings of the Church
The church has several dimensions. The invisible church refers to all the elect across all ages, while the visible church includes congregations gathered for worship and ministry. The universal church encompasses all believers at any given time (1 Corinthians 10:32; Galatians 1:13). Within local congregations, there may exist a church within the church, consisting of those whose faith is genuine among a mixture of varying commitment (Matthew 7:21–25; 13:24–30, 36–43).
Marks of a True Church
A true church can be recognized by several essential characteristics. Unity is fundamental, as believers are one people despite differences in worship styles or practices. Holiness distinguishes those whose faith is genuine, reflected in moral integrity and relationships (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 2:3). Apostolic foundation ensures the church is built on the teachings of the apostles and Scripture as its supreme authority (Ephesians 2:20; 1 Timothy 2:2). Catholicity, or universality, emphasizes openness to all who embrace the gospel, with baptism as the rite of entry.
In contrast, many groups today claim to be the true church but deviate from biblical teaching. Examples include Christian Science, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Legio Maria, Transcendental Meditation, Brahmanites, and Mormons.
Ordinances of the Church
The church practices ordinances, outward rites prescribed by Christ. Baptism represents a public confession of faith, communion with Christ, consecration to live for Him, and a promise of future consummation (Romans 6:3–4; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21). Early church practice included instruction and feasting, with immersion as the preferred mode, though pouring or sprinkling was used when water was scarce.
The Lord’s Supper, also known as the Lord’s Table, Eucharist, or Communion, originated from the Passover meal and anticipates the fullness of God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 11:23; Luke 22:19). Interpretations vary: the Roman Catholic view (transubstantiation) teaches that elements become the true body and blood of Christ; the Lutheran view (consubstantiation) sees a union of elements with Christ; the Zwinglian perspective understands them as symbolic. Recipients must be saved, baptized, and obedient, reflecting willingness to live under Christ’s lordship (Acts 2:41–42; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29).
Also Read Who Is God? A Biblical and Christian Understanding
Government of the Church
Church governance typically follows three models. Episcopal governance is led by bishops with ordination authority, practiced in Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and some Methodist and Lutheran churches. Presbyterian governance relies on elders, distinguishing between ruling elders who govern and teaching elders who preach, with congregational input in selection. Congregational governance entrusts authority to the members of the local church, with pastors and deacons as leaders (1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 1:27).
Functions of the Church
The doctrine of the Church teaches that the church exists to glorify God. Worship combines praise, the word of God, and offerings, with the sermon as the climax. Fellowship, or koinonia, involves sharing in the life of God and expressing self-giving love within the community. Ministry, or diakonia, emphasizes humble service within and beyond the church (Mark 9:33–37). Witness involves verbal proclamation of the gospel, starting with corporate witness and extending to individuals. Church growth occurs both extensively, through increased membership, and intensively, through deepening faith nurtured by Scripture and participation in ordinances.
Application
Every believer, as part of the church—the bride of Christ—should strive to present themselves spotless. This involves prayer, commitment to local fellowship, willingness to serve, and endurance for the gospel. Believers should reflect on two questions: how do you know you are part of the universal church, and what makes you an active member of your local church? Membership requires active participation, spiritual growth, and living out the calling to worship, fellowship, ministry, and witness.
NB: There are some major doctrines to understand as a believer.
- The Doctrine of the Church
- The doctrine of God
- The doctrine of Scriptures
- The Doctrine of Man