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The Church

The Holy Spirit promptly integrates believers into a cohesive, single spiritual entity – the Church. The Church is recognized as the Bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23-32; Revelation 19:7-8). Christ assumes the leadership and authority of this spiritual Body (Ephesians 1:22, 4:15; Colossians 1:18).

The Church, also known as the Body of Christ, was established on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-21,38-47) and continues until Christ’s return (1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

The Church, the Bride of Christ, is comprised of all individuals who have been born again during this present era (Ephesians 2:11-3:6). The Church is separate from Israel (1 Corinthians 10:32), and the Church’s existence was a mystery revealed in the New Testament (Ephesians 3:1-6, 5:32).

The Scriptures provide clear and well-defined instructions regarding the establishment and continuity of local churches (Acts 14:23,27 20:17,28; Galatians 1:2; Philippians 1:1;       1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1). The members of the unified spiritual Body are directed to congregate and associate with one another in local assemblies (1 Corinthians 11:18-20; Hebrews 10:25).

The Church, regardless of whether its members are Jews or Gentiles, is a single, unified body. Having become integrated, it is our responsibility to work towards achieving a sense of unity and peace through the Spirit, transcending any disparities and loving each other with genuine and untainted hearts (Ephesians 4:3-10; Colossians 3:14-15; Galatians 3:28).

Christ is the head of each local Church (1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18). God has ordained the appointment of elders and deacons in every local Church to fulfill duties such as teaching, preaching, prayer, and the work of ministry (Acts 2:41-42; 2 Corinthians 9:13; 1 Timothy 3:1-13, 5:17-20; Ephesians 4:11; Titus 1:5-9).

Each local Church is autonomous and thus free from external authority or control. Each has the right to self-government and is free from any interference by any hierarchy of individuals or organizations (Titus 1:5). However, it is scriptural for local churches to collaborate to promote and disseminate the faith.