------------------------------------------------------- **Cross Reference**: #theology, #Christian_identity, #Gods_grace, #ecclesiology, #body_of_Christ, #church_mission, #baptism, #lords_supper # The Doctrine of the Church: Understanding the Body of Christ The **[[doctrine of the church]]** is essential to understanding both our individual and collective roles as followers of [[Christ]]. At its core, this doctrine addresses the character and activities of the **[[community of the redeemed]]**, or the **[[people of God]]**, in the present age. But what does this mean for us today, and how does the **[[Bible]]** shape our understanding of what the church is and what it should be? Let’s dive into key concepts around the **[[doctrine of the church]]** and reflect on what this means for us as believers. ## The Church: Not a Free Agent, But a Community A foundational truth about the **[[Church]]** is that it’s not just about “me and God.” Yes, personal faith is important, but the **church** exists as a collective **[[body]]**, a **[[community]]** that God has called out from the world. This is crucial because it reminds us that **[[Christianity]]** cannot be lived in isolation. We are all part of something much bigger than ourselves. In [Matthew 28:18–20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28.18-20&version=AMP), [[Jesus]] commands His disciples: > “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This command shows us the outward focus of the **[[Church]]**. We’re not just a **[[community]]** for the sake of community; we are a **[[people]]** on **[[mission]]**, sent out into the world to spread the **[[Gospel]]**. The church, in its essence, is **[[missional]]**—called to evangelize, teach, and disciple others. ## The Four Marks of the Church The **[[Church]]** has traditionally been described by four key attributes: **one**, **holy**, **catholic**, and **apostolic**. ### 1. **One** The church is unified in [[Christ]], though it may be expressed in many local communities. There may be individual congregations, but they all form part of the greater **[[Body of Christ]]**. [[Paul]] reminds us in [1 Corinthians 12:12](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+12.12&version=AMP): > “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” We must always strive for **unity** in the **[[Church]]**, understanding that though we may worship in different ways or locations, we are all part of the same spiritual family. ### 2. **Holy** The church is called to be **[[holy]]**, set apart for God’s purposes. **[[Holiness]]** doesn’t mean perfection but being dedicated to God and reflecting His character in the world. This attribute of the church reminds us of our calling to live lives that reflect **[[Christ]]**. ### 3. **Catholic** The word **“catholic”** here refers to the church's universality. The church is not limited to one region, one language, or one time period. It extends across history and geography. Wherever there are followers of [[Christ]], there is the **[[Church]]**. > “Wherever [[Jesus Christ]] has had followers called together and called out from the world, that is the church.” ### 4. **Apostolic** The church is **apostolic** because it carries on the **[[mission]]** that [[Christ]] entrusted to His **[[Apostles]]**. This mission includes spreading the **[[Gospel]]** and continuing the work that [[Christ]] began. Our mission as the church today is directly connected to what [[Jesus]] gave to the apostles and what they passed on through the generations. ## The Institutional Life of the Church: [[Baptism]] and the [[Lord’s Supper]] The **[[00.New Testament]]** gives clear guidance on how the **[[Church]]** should function institutionally. Two central practices—the ordinances of **[[Baptism]]** and **the [[Lord’s Supper]]**—are foundational to the life of the **church**. These **[[sacraments]]** are more than rituals. They are signs of the **[[Covenant]]** between God and His **[[people]]** and ways we actively participate in the life of the church. ### [[Baptism]] [[Baptism]] symbolizes our entry into the **[[community]]** of faith. It represents the believer’s death to sin and **[[Resurrection]]** to new life in **[[Christ]]**. It is a visible sign that we belong to God’s **[[people]]**. ### The [[Lord’s Supper]] The **[[Lord’s Supper]]**, or **[[Communion]]**, is a continual reminder of [[Jesus]]’ sacrifice and our **[[unity]]** with Him and with one another. When we take **[[Communion]]**, we are not only remembering [[Jesus’ death]] but also proclaiming His death until He comes again ([1 Corinthians 11:26](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+11.26&version=AMP)). ## The Mission of the Church: Three Key Focuses The **[[mission]]** of the church can be divided into three primary categories: 1. **Relation to Society and Political Realities** The church is called to engage with the world around it, including **[[political realities]]**. This doesn’t mean the church becomes political in a partisan sense, but it does mean the church speaks truth to power and advocates for **[[justice]]**. 2. **Evangelism and Discipleship** **[[Evangelism]]** and **[[Discipleship]]** form the core spiritual mission of the church. We are called to share the **[[Gospel]]** and to teach others what it means to follow [[Christ]]. This mission was given directly by **[[Christ]]** in the Great Commission ([Matthew 28:19–20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28.19-20&version=AMP)). 3. **Witness to [[Mercy]] and [[Justice]]** The church is called to act as a witness to God’s **[[mercy]]** and **[[justice]]**. This means addressing issues of poverty, injustice, and inequality in our world. Our faith is not just about personal **[[Salvation]]** but about being agents of change in society. ## Call to Action: Living Out the Doctrine of the Church - **Embrace Community**: Recognize that your faith journey is not a solo endeavor. Actively engage with your local church community, understanding that we are part of a larger **[[body of believers]]**. - **Fulfill the Mission**: Take seriously the church’s mission to evangelize, disciple, and act justly. How can you contribute to the church’s mission in your community? - **Participate in the Sacraments**: **[[Baptism]]** and the **[[Lord’s Supper]]** are not optional for believers; they are commands from **[[Christ]]**. Participate in these ordinances as a sign of your connection to **[[Christ]]** and His church. The **[[doctrine of the church]]** is not just theological jargon; it shapes how we live our lives as Christians. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger, called to be God’s people on mission in the world. How will you live out your calling as a member of **[[Christ’s church]]** today?