What is the Church?

| Sermon Summary by Pray Eucha |

The church (Ecclesia) is fundamentally the "body of Christ," consisting of believers who have been called out from the sinful world and redeemed by the blood of Christ. It is not a democratic human organization of the people, by the people and for the people, but a spiritual body purchased by Christ, for Christ, which consists of the people. This understanding emphasizes that the church belongs to Christ, who gave Himself for it, highlighting the deep, sacrificial love that underpins its existence.

Who is the cornerstone of the church?

Central to the identity of the church is Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. He is the foundation upon which the entire church is built. Scriptural references like Matthew 16:18, Acts 4:11, and 1 Peter 2:4-8 affirm Christ’s unique and indispensable role as the living stone chosen by God. Removing Christ from the church’s foundation destabilizes its very existence, reinforcing the idea that Christ is essential to the church’s unity and purpose and only what he thinks matters in a church.

From God’s perspective, the church is assessed not by external appearances or reputation but by its faithfulness and spiritual health. In Revelation, we see Christ's Commendations for the church for qualities such as perseverance, faith, endurance, and love, while criticisms/condemnation highlight issues like lack of love for God, false teachings, spiritual deadness, and lukewarmness. These evaluations underscore that the church’s true value lies in its holiness and fidelity to God. The million dollar question for today is, for what would God commend or condemn our local church today? Do we interceede for our sins or have compromised to allow sin to thrive in the church like some of the churches mentioned in Revelation? We are called to accept the sinners, and not the sin.

How does God want the church to be?

The mission of the church involves being a visible expression of God’s kingdom on earth, standing in contrast to worldly systems through transformed lives lived in obedience to God’s commands. The church is called to embody the Great Commandment—to love God and neighbor—and to carry out the Great Commission by making disciples. This includes Changed individuals, creating counter culture and building alternative systems that align with the word of God.

In essence, the church is the bride of Christ purchased by God with his blood for which he is the cornerstone. The individual members suffer with one another as different parts of the body and reflect Christ through individual lives, culture and system that challenges the world.