What Is the Church and Why Does It Matter?
The Bible does not define the church as a building, denomination, or religious organization. Scripture presents the church as the people of God who have been called out by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Understanding what the church is explains why it exists and why it matters in the life of believers.
Because the word “church” is often used in many different ways, it is important to let Scripture define it. When the church is misunderstood, its purpose is distorted and its importance is minimized.
1) The Biblical Meaning of “Church”
And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts 2:47 (KJV)The word translated “church” comes from the Greek term ekklēsia (ἐκκλησία), meaning an assembly or called-out gathering. It does not refer to a building, but to people who have been gathered by God through salvation.
2) The Church Is the Body of Christ
Scripture describes the church as the body of Christ. This imagery emphasizes unity, dependence, and purpose among believers.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
1 Corinthians 12:27 (KJV)Each believer is a member of the body with a function and responsibility. Christ is presented as the head, directing and sustaining the church.
3) The Purpose of the Church
The Bible teaches that the church exists for God’s glory and the good of His people. Scripture identifies worship, teaching, fellowship, and witness as central to the church’s mission.
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:42 (KJV)The church is meant to be a place where believers grow in truth, encourage one another, and live out their faith together.
4) Why the Church Matters
Scripture presents the church as essential to Christian life. Believers are not called to live in isolation, but in community shaped by God’s word.
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Hebrews 10:25 (KJV)Gathering with the church provides accountability, instruction, encouragement, and spiritual care. The church is one of the primary means God uses to strengthen His people.
5) The Church and the World
The Bible teaches that the church has a witness to the world. Believers are called to live faithfully and proclaim the gospel.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Matthew 28:19 (KJV)The church carries the message of Christ to the world. Its mission is not political power or cultural control, but faithfulness to the gospel.
Conclusion
According to the Bible, the church is the gathered people of God, united in Christ and called to worship, grow, and witness together. The church matters because it is God’s design for nurturing believers and proclaiming the gospel in the world.