Faith & Reason Nexus

The Church of Christ, as depicted in Scripture, embodies several key characteristics and truths:

• Christ is its Head: The church submits to the authority of Christ, who is its ultimate leader and source of guidance (Ephesians 1:22-23).
• It has many members: Just as the human body consists of many parts, the church is composed of diverse individuals united in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12).
• Christ is its Savior: The church acknowledges Jesus as its Savior, relying on His redemptive work for salvation (Ephesians 5:23).
• It wears Christ’s name: The church bears the name of Christ, identifying with His teachings and mission (Romans 16:16).
• Christ loves it: Christ’s love for the church is profound and sacrificial (Ephesians 5:25).
• It is the body: The church is described as the body of Christ, functioning together in unity and cooperation (Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 5:25).
• Its members are Christians only: The church consists exclusively of followers of Christ, known as Christians (Acts 11:26).
• There is but one church: The unity of the church is emphasized, as there is only one body of Christ (Ephesians 4:4).
• Christ established it: The church was established by Christ Himself, fulfilling His promise to build His church (Acts 20:28, Matthew 16:18).
• It is a blood-bought institution: The church was purchased by the blood of Christ, demonstrating the costly price of redemption (Acts 20:28, 1 Corinthians 15:24).
• Established it on Pentecost: The church was inaugurated on the Day of Pentecost, following Christ’s resurrection and ascension (Acts 2:47).
• The saved are added to it: Through faith in Christ, individuals are added to the church, becoming part of God’s redeemed community (Acts 2).
• It will be presented to God: Ultimately, the church will be presented to God as a glorious and purified bride, redeemed and sanctified by Christ (Hebrews 12:28).

These truths underscore the significance and divine purpose of the Church of Christ as a redeemed and unified body, called to proclaim the gospel and glorify God.