The Doctrine of the Church

jculler1972

Oct 31

The definition and ideas from this post are taken from the book You Are a Theologian by Jen Wilkin & J. T. English — Book Review.

The Doctrine of the Church (Ecclesiology) Definition: The church is the family of God, created by the Father through the Word, led by the Son and filled with the Spirit. It is universal, local, and celebratory.

There are a number of metaphors from the New Testament that teach us about the church and how it is meant to function. Here are a few:

The Church is a family. When we are adopted by God through Christ, we become part of His family. This family is made known by its love for one another.
The Church is a temple. We, the church, are now God's temple, because we have received His Spirit. Peter uses this image when he describes believers as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house. (1 Peter 2:5)
The Church is a priesthood. All believers have been set aside, given the privilege and duty to serve God in a variety of ways.
The Church is a stranger. Peter also reminds the early believers (and us) that we are exiles, aliens, sojourners, on our way to our true home. (1 Peter 1:1; 2:11) The world will often treat us with hostility.
The Church is a body. Paul calls the church "the body of Christ." As part of the body, we each have individual functions and abilities. Working together is what give us strength. There should be no competition, because all are important, and all are needed.
The Church is a bride. As husband and wife are joined together and become one, the church is united to Christ in an unbreakable bond.

How do these illustrations of the church resonate with you? Which one do you like best? Are any new to you? These are good questions to ponder.

For more about the church see these posts:

What is the Church? # 2

We (the Laity) Are the Church

What is a Church?