Huntington Church of Christ

The above question pertains to one of the most basic truths found in the Bible. If misunderstood, we begin on the wrong foot and head off in the wrong direction. The question needs to be answered according to Scripture, not fleshly concerns (family traditions, personal feelings, or social appeals).

The word "church" is translated from the greek term "Ekklesia". It literally means "a called out body of people." It is used several different ways in the New Testament. In Acts 7:38, Stephen referred to the nation of Israel as "the church in the wilderness." These people had been "called out" of Egyptian slavery. "Ekklesia" is translated "assembly" in Acts 19:32, referring to a group of confused people who were "called out" to riot. It is mostly used in reference to people who were "called out" of sin, and into Christ Jesus. This is the church of Christ; his body, kingdom, and family. Thus the answer to our question: The church is "saved souls" (past and present).

The church is made up of those who have been saved and called of God (2 Timothy 1:9). The saint is one who has been "sanctified" or "set apart" from this world. Living for Christ, not self; in other words, a Christian! Those in the New Testament church have been called out of darkness and into Christ's marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9)_. They are called, not miraculously, but by the gospel of Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 2:13,14). Therefore the church is comprised of people who humbly and sincerely submit and obey the gospel message.

Daniel S. Dow
Huntington Church of Christ