Faith & Reason Nexus

The Church is People, Not a Building or a Place

The Church refers to the community of believers in Christ, not a physical structure. It is the body of believers, united by faith in Jesus Christ.

Worship in the Church

Prayer

• Ephesians 1:22-23 – The church is the body of Christ, and prayer is vital in the life of the church.
• Acts 12:15 – The church gathers in prayer, supporting one another.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – Christians are called to pray without ceasing.
• 1 Timothy 2:1 – Prayer for all people is a key part of the church’s life.
• Romans 8:26 – The Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, especially in prayer.

Singing

• Ephesians 5:19 – The church should sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, making melody in the heart.
• Colossians 3:16 – Let the word of Christ dwell richly, teaching and admonishing one another through singing.
• 1 Corinthians 1:21 – Through preaching and teaching, the gospel is proclaimed, and songs help communicate God’s message.

Preaching and Teaching

• Acts 20:7 – The early church gathered for preaching and teaching, particularly on the first day of the week.
• Galatians 1:6-8 – The gospel must remain true to Christ, and teaching should not be altered.
• 1 Corinthians 1:21 – God chose the preaching of the gospel to save those who believe.

Lord’s Supper (Every Lord’s Day)

• Acts 20:7 – The church gathered to break bread (Lord’s Supper) on the first day of the week.
• Luke 22:19-20 – Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper as a memorial of His body and blood.
• 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 – The Lord’s Supper is a proclamation of Christ’s death until He comes.

Giving

• 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 – The church is to give generously and regularly, supporting the work of the ministry and the needs of others.

Work of the Church

Evangelism

• Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission calls the church to go and make disciples of all nations.
• Mark 16:15-16 – Preach the gospel to every creature, offering salvation to those who believe.
• Ephesians 3:10-11 – The church is meant to make known God’s wisdom to the world.

Benevolence

• Galatians 6:10 – The church is to do good to all, especially those of the household of faith.
• James 1:27 – Pure religion includes caring for orphans and widows in their distress.

Edification

• Ephesians 4:12, 16, 29 – The church is to build up the body of Christ through teaching, service, and encouragement.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – Encourage one another and build each other up in faith.
• 1 Corinthians 1:21 – The gospel and the church’s preaching and teaching help build faith and wisdom.

“The churches of Christ salute you”

• Romans 16:16 – The church is a fellowship of believers who share a common bond in Christ.

“Upon this rock I will build my church”

• Matthew 16:18 – Jesus established the church upon Himself as the foundation, and it will endure forever.

The Church is a living, dynamic body of believers committed to worship, teaching, evangelism, and service to one another and the world.