“I am writing these things to you now, even though I hope to be with you soon, so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.”
1 Timothy 3:14-15
Paul writes to Timothy, addressing how people must conduct themselves in church. In our modern society, the church has faced criticism, leading some believers to also question its significance. However, every believer must form their perception of the church based on the teachings of the Bible, rather than relying on personal opinions or experiences. What does the Bible say about the church?
WHAT IS THE CHUCH?
The church is an assembly of faithful followers of Jesus Christ and it is the pillar and foundation of the truth. The church is not defined by a physical structure, but by its members, who make up the body of Christ with Him as the head (Eph 1:22-23). There are two perspectives from which we can view the church: the local church and the global church. The local church is the gathering of believers in a specific location. The global church includes believers in Jesus Christ from all corners of the world and throughout history. The church is inclusive of people of different backgrounds and eras. It is Christ himself who builds the church (Matt 16:18). The foundation of the church is Jesus Christ, for no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ (1 Cor 3:11).
THE ROLES OF THE LOCAL CHURCH
As the church, we are to devote ourselves to the teachings of biblical doctrine, evangelism, fellowship, serving, worshiping the Lord and praying together (Acts 2:42-47). These practices are essential for our spiritual growth. The spiritual gifts we receive from the Holy Spirit should be expressed in these gatherings in an orderly manner and with the sole purpose of edifying the church (1 Cor 14:26-33). We are being built to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices that please God. The mission of the church is to make disciples of all the nations, baptising and teaching them to observe all things that Jesus commanded (Matt 28:18-20). Furthermore, the church should care for those who are in need by sharing the gospel and meeting their physical needs.
THE PRESENT CHURCH
The church should consider how to stir up one another to love and do good works, not neglecting to meet together, but encouraging one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near (Heb 10:24-25). God commands us to go to church, but that does not mean that we should expose ourselves to unhealthy practices in the church that are contrary to God’s word which may end up destroying our faith, lives, and the image of the church of Christ.
It is important to note that each member of the church is to be valued, just like every part of the human body. The church is most effective when each member utilises their skills and gifts to fulfil their distinct role within the body of Christ. Furthermore, it is important to recognize that each member of the church is flawed. Our past church experiences should not stop our gatherings as believers. The church is not God, rather it consists of imperfect people who are constantly evolving and prone to make mistakes. Despite our imperfections, the church is established by God in the likeness of Christ, and it continues to be effective and meaningful.
The church is not a building or an event rather it is the assembly of believers. It serves as a space for mutual support, spiritual growth, and intercession. We are not created to live in isolation, we need a godly community. How delightful it is to accomplish our God-given purpose alongside individuals who share the same faith.
Further study: 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 2:19-22
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