Definition of Church
The Bible is an ancient collection of books taken as authoritative by adherents of multiple Judeo-Christian religions such as Protestantism and Catholicism. Within the biblical account, church is a term often used to refer to a community of people who collectively come together to worship and learn the lessons of the faith. While opinions vary on the specific origin of the “Church” within the Bible, according to Catholic Answers, the first use of the term occurs in the New Testament book of Matthew, when Jesus is recorded as saying “I will build my church”. From this most basic definition, the modern concept of a church has been understood as a place of worship, fellowship and growth.
Structure of Church
In the Bible, the Church is described as having a specific structure, ordained by authority from God, and designed to teach the faith. In the New Testament, the Church hierarchy is typically seen as top-down, with Jesus or his apostles at its head. This is followed by deacons, elders, bishops and other leaders who help ensure that spiritual matters are carried out and teachings are spread. The basic structure is meant to ensure that the church is able to organize and operate efficiently.
Purpose of Church
The Church in the Bible is founded on the purpose of upholding the teachings of Christianity, and helping believers to experience a strong connection with God. Throughout the Bible, the Church is repeatedly referred to as a body of believers and individuals united in purpose, mission and reason for being. From teaching to prayer, preaching to fellowship, the goal of the Church is to help believe on their journey closer to God.
Sacraments of the Church
The Church in the Bible often emphasizes the importance of certain sacraments, celebrations and rituals. Most commonly, this includes what is famously known as the holy trinity – baptism, communion and confirmation. Baptism is believed to be the representation of the “washing away” of sins, with Jesus’ death being the ultimate payment for these sins. Communion and confirmation are two more practices that are used to reinforce the bond that believers have with God.
Governing Rules of the Church
The Bible also lays out certain governing rules and creeds that the Church must adhere to. From standards of conduct and moral code, to dress code in the Church and its practices, the Bible provides a guide to make sure that believers are living and worshiping according to the design that God desires.
Church and Community
In the Bible, the Church is not only seen as a place of spiritual unity and growth, but also as a community. The Church encourages people to become part of a greater, more unified body of believers, united in purpose and goal. This can be seen in the way the New Testament books emphasize unity and communal activities such as meals, charity work and outreach.
Modern Day Church
Church today, both in Christianity and other faiths, still looks to the Church portrayed in the Bible as a model. Practices such as prayer, worship, and community service remain important, and modern day churches often strive to be vessels of the same spiritual closeness and growth as in the Bible.
Theology of the Church
Theology is an important area of study in the Church in the Bible, as it helps believers understand the religious teachings and deepen their faith. The Bible is filled with numerous passages and accounts that help theology and the deeper understanding of God. From discussions and debates about the nature of God to understanding the sins of man and the holy trinity, deeper theological understanding can be found in the Bible.
Fundamentalism and the Church
Fundamentalism, or taking an overly literal interpretation of Scripture, has been a large part of many churches in the modern era. This has resulted in a resurgence of beliefs and practices that some say go directly against the Bible. While the Biblical message is one of acceptance and unity, fundamentalism has been known to create further divides and the Church in the Bible often emphasized the importance of understanding writ in context and of not adhering to religious rules blindly, as this can be potentially damaging to communities and believers alike.
Biblical Literature and the Church
From the Book of Job to the Book of Revelations, the Bible contains a rich variety of literature that helps deepen the understanding of believers and the purview of the Church. From poetic stories and psalms to strong narratives and teachings, the Bible provides many tools to help believers in their spiritual and personal journey.
Church Sacrifices and Practices
Throughout the Bible, Church members are repeatedly asked to make sacrifices and carry out acts of charity in the service of God and their fellow man. Whether it is in spiritual matters such as tithes, offering prayers, or Acts of Kindness like visiting the sick or helping those in need, these acts of faith often involve considerable commitments from the believer.
Role of the Church in Society
The Church in the Bible is seen not only as a place of worship, but also as one where believers can help build a just and ethical society. Throughout the Bible, laws and prophetic writings are used to provide guidance to Church members and to encourage them to do good works in their community, through helping the poor, visiting the sick and speaking up for those who have no voice.
Wisdom of the Church in the Bible
The Church in the Bible notably provides much wisdom and advice when it comes to how believers can lead better lives. From passages about forgiveness and mercy, to accounts of honor and self-control, the messages of the Bible are often full of deep insights and values that guide believers through good and bad times. To understand the Church in the Bible, is to understand its timeless teachings and values.
Church of the Bible and Personal Growth
The Church in the Bible is steeped in teachings and practices that have the potential to help believers strive in their personal growth. From verses that speak of hope and personal development to times where prayer and reflection can provide a sense of inner peace, the Bible provides many tools to help believers attain a better understanding of themselves.
Church of the Bible and Leadership
The Bible also highlights the role of the leader in the Church, and the importance of leading with wisdom and insight. Biblical accounts discuss the purpose and goals of the leader, and how their example should be followed. Moreover, the Bible speaks of the need for humility, strength and integrity for those who wish to be effective leaders in the Church.
