What is the Church?

The Church Is the Body of Christ

The Bible teaches that the church is not a building but the collective body of believers in Jesus Christ. “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:27, NIV). Every Christian is a member of this spiritual body, connected through faith in Christ.

The Church Is God’s Family

Believers in Jesus are adopted into God’s family. “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12, ESV). The church is a community of God’s children, called to love, support, and encourage one another (Hebrews 10:24–25).

The Church Is a Place of Worship

The church exists to worship God both individually and collectively. “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24, NIV). Worship includes prayer, singing, reading Scripture, and celebrating the sacraments such as baptism and communion.

The Church Is a Witness to the World

Christians are called to share the gospel through the church. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14,16, NIV). The church is God’s instrument to reach the lost.

The Church Is a Place of Service

The Bible teaches that the church equips believers for service and good works. “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (Ephesians 4:11–12, NIV). Every member has a role in serving God and others.

The Church Is Unified in Christ

Despite differences in culture, background, or social status, the church is united in Jesus. “There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” (Ephesians 4:4–5, NIV). The church represents God’s kingdom on earth as a unified community of believers.

Living as Part of the Church

Being part of the church means belonging to God’s family, worshiping Him, serving others, sharing the gospel, and growing in Christ together. As Scripture reminds us, the church is a living, active community where God’s Spirit dwells and equips His people for His mission (1 Corinthians 12:12–13).