The Importance of Christ's Church

Original material by Don Krow; updates from Eileen Plemmons

What is “The Church”? The Greek word for “church” is ekklesia, (or ecclesia), and is defined as “A called-out assembly or congregation. Ekklesia is commonly translated as ‘church’ in the New Testament.”

“The church” consists of those who believe on Jesus Christ – the believers themselves, not a building. The Scriptures define “church” and its’ importance; let’s look at a few.

Romans 16:3 (NLT) “Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:25 (AMP) “Brothers and sisters, pray for us.”

Acts 5:42 (TPT) “And nothing stopped them! They kept preaching every day in the temple courts and went from house to house, preaching the gospel of Jesus, God’s Anointed One!”

Acts 20:20 (ESV) “…how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you in public and from house to house,”

Ephesians 5:19 (AMP) “Speak to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, (offering praise by) singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord;”

So, we can conclude that “church” happens when Jesus’ believers gather for ministry, prayer, preaching, teaching, praising, worship, singing, and giving glory to God Almighty. This is the “importance” behind Christ’s church!

Most of this activity was done in homes. Isn’t it interesting that Christians today also prefer to meet in homes? Whether for a Bible study, fellowship meal, or just being able to talk about the things God is doing in our lives, gathering in small groups helps us to edify each other, build each other up, while giving praise and honor to God.

This describes an evangelistic church, the LORD adding to their number as they repent, believe, follow, encourage, exercise spiritual gifts, serve, have fellowship, and perhaps share meals. The end result? To go out preaching and teaching the gospel, watching God do miracles, signs, and wonders through us, come back, brag on God, and begin the cycle again (Mark 16:15-18).

Doesn’t that sound like a group of believers we want to belong to? I encourage us to join ourselves to an existing group of believers, or perhaps to have a Bible study in our home, or local coffee shop. Maybe have a meal together, or gather for dessert, let the group decide. Start with a friend or two that you know are hungry for God and invite others as Holy Spirit directs.

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