What defines the Church of God?

Definition and Terminology

The phrase “Church of God” indicates a collective assembly belonging to God, drawn from the Greek term “ekklesia” meaning “called-out ones.” This designation points to the origin and ownership of the Church. It does not merely describe a physical building but rather a community of believers who have been redeemed by faith in the risen Christ and brought into fellowship with one another.

Throughout the New Testament, the phrase “church of God” appears in references such as:

• “To the church of God in Corinth…” (1 Corinthians 1:2)

• “Shepherd the church of God…” (Acts 20:28)

These passages highlight a dual understanding of the Church: it is a community that belongs to God and is nurtured by those entrusted with oversight.

Biblical Foundation

According to Scripture, the Church is rooted in God’s redemptive plan. In Genesis, humanity is created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), signifying a special relationship with the Creator. Through the Fall, sin and separation entered the world (Genesis 3), yet the promise of redemption was immediately foreshadowed (Genesis 3:15). This plan of salvation culminates in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, uniting believers into one body through faith (Ephesians 2:13–16).

Following Christ’s ascension, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), empowering believers to witness. Acts 2:47 states that “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” This was the birthplace of the New Testament Church—an established community sharing in worship, discipleship, and service.

Universal and Local Expressions

Scripture portrays the Church both universally and locally. Universally, the Church consists of all who, across all generations, have put their trust in Christ for salvation. It transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. Locally, believers assemble in specific congregations for teaching, fellowship, and worship. Thus, Christians in the first century gathered in homes (Romans 16:5), while modern congregations assemble in church buildings or other venues. Despite differences in location and style, the common thread is faith in Christ and alignment with biblical teaching.

Identity as the Body of Christ

First Corinthians 12:12–13 underscores the unity of believers under one Spirit, describing the Church as the “body of Christ.” Each member has distinct gifts and callings, all contributing to the edification and ministry of the whole. Ephesians 4:15–16 affirms that from Christ “the whole body…grows and builds itself up in love.” This image emphasizes interdependence and a Christ-centered structure.

Spiritual Functions and Authority

1 Timothy 3:15 describes the Church as “the pillar and foundation of the truth.” Key functions include:

• Worship: Offering praise and devotion to God (Hebrews 13:15).

• Discipleship: Teaching sound doctrine, passing on apostolic truth (2 Timothy 2:2).

• Fellowship: Building unity among believers (Acts 2:42).

• Evangelism: Proclaiming the gospel to the world (Matthew 28:19–20).

Authority in the Church is ultimately subject to Christ, who is “the head of the church” (Ephesians 5:23). Elders and overseers are instructed to shepherd the flock in accordance with Scripture (1 Peter 5:1–4).

The Role of Scripture

All teaching and practice in the Church are guided by Scripture, regarded as God-breathed instruction (2 Timothy 3:16–17). Ancient manuscripts, such as the early papyri, uncials (e.g., Codex Sinaiticus, Codex Vaticanus), and other textual evidence, underscore the fidelity of the biblical text transmitted through generations. Archaeological finds including the Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the remarkable preservation of scriptural prophecies relating to the coming Messiah, supporting continuity and accuracy of the Old and New Testament writings.

Historical Continuity

From the Day of Pentecost until modern times, the Church has endeavored to perpetuate the teachings of Christ. Archaeological excavations in Israel and surrounding regions reveal first-century artifacts confirming early Christian gatherings, such as meeting places and symbols like the ichthys (fish). Early writings by church fathers (e.g., Ignatius of Antioch, Clement of Rome) corroborate New Testament descriptions of church life, underlining a consistent adherence to apostolic doctrine.

Miraculous Foundations and Global Witness

New Testament accounts record miracles performed by the apostles (Acts 5:12), healings (Acts 3:6–8), and even the raising of the dead (Acts 9:36–41). These events attest to God’s power working through the Church in the first century. Modern testimonies from mission fields and local churches worldwide often recount miraculous healings and life transformations, reflecting continuity with biblical patterns of the Holy Spirit’s activity.

Christ as the Head and the Centrality of the Resurrection

The Church of God is defined by its relationship to Christ:

• He is the Church’s foundation, having said, “I will build My church” (Matthew 16:18).

• His resurrection is central, for “if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile” (1 Corinthians 15:17).

• His return is the Church’s hope, as expressed in passages such as 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17.

Beyond institutional structures, this relationship to Christ is paramount, unifying believers in the confession that “Jesus is Lord” (Romans 10:9).

Membership and Discipleship

Membership in the Church of God is not achieved by heritage or merit but by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). Entrance into this community of believers is symbolized by baptism (Acts 2:38), and ongoing participation is marked by growth in discipleship, adherence to Christ’s teachings, and active involvement in communal worship and service.

Lifestyle and Purpose

Scripture frames the Church as “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9), underscoring a call to holiness and witness. Believers aim to honor God by walking in love (Ephesians 5:2), holding fast to truth, and reflecting His character in the world. The chief purpose is to glorify God, proclaim His salvation, and love one another as a demonstration of God’s redemptive grace.

Conclusion

The Church of God is the assembly of those who belong to Him through faith in the risen Christ, enabled by the Holy Spirit, and ordered according to the Scriptures. It is universally composed of all faithful believers yet expressed locally in congregations that worship, fellowship, and evangelize. Grounded in apostolic foundations, confirmed by manuscript evidence and historical record, and continually empowered by the Holy Spirit, the Church of God stands as “the pillar and foundation of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15), entrusted with the mission of making disciples and proclaiming the gospel to all nations.