What is the Definition of the Term "Church"? Does the Bible Refer to the Church as God's Body?
The Bible refers to the church as the body of Christ in several passages. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul writes, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
The term "church" is used frequently in Christian circles, but what does it actually mean? Is it a building, a group of people, or something else entirely? In this blog post, we will explore the definition of the term "church" and whether the Bible refers to the church as God's body.
Definition of the Term "Church"
The term "church" comes from the Greek word ecclesia, which means "assembly" or "called-out ones." In the New Testament, the word is used to refer to a group of believers who gather together for worship and fellowship. The church is not a physical building, but rather a community of people who share a common faith in Jesus Christ.
The church has several different meanings in the Bible. It can refer to the universal church, which includes all believers throughout history, or to a local assembly of believers in a particular location. The church can also refer to the body of Christ, which we will explore in more detail below.
The Church as God's Body
The Bible refers to the church as the body of Christ in several passages. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul writes, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." This metaphorical language describes how believers are connected to one another and to Christ, with each member of the church playing a unique role.
In Ephesians 1:22-23, Paul writes, "And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way." This passage emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ, with Christ as the head of the church. The church is described as the fullness of Christ, representing his presence and power on earth.
In Colossians 1:18, Paul writes, "And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy." This passage emphasizes the preeminence of Christ and his role as the head of the church.
Conclusion
The Bible refers to the church as the body of Christ, emphasizing the unity of believers and the preeminence of Christ as the head of the church. As believers, we are called to be part of the church and to use our unique gifts and talents to serve one another and to advance the kingdom of God.