The term “church” in English designates not just a physical building but an assembly of individuals united for a significant and divine purpose, consciously setting themselves apart from worldly distractions to align with the mind and will of God. The church serves as a spiritual community, fostering relationships among believers and facilitating worship, teaching, and outreach.

The word “church” is etymologically derived from the Greek term “kyriakon,” translating to “belonging to the Lord.” This connection signifies the church’s dedicated nature toward God’s purposes. In the Hebrew tradition, the word “Gahal” simply means an assembly, emphasising the communal aspect of worship. This term was translated into the Septuagint—the Greek version of the Hebrew Bible—where it appears as “Ecclesia.” Originally, “ecclesia” referred to any gathering of people, especially in civic matters, reflecting its roots in communal decision-making in the Greek city-states.

In the context of the New Testament, the Greek verbs “kalew” (to call) and “ek” (out of) merge to convey the phrase “called out.” This underscores a more profound spiritual interpretation of the assembly, emphasising the divine calling of individuals to step away from their ordinary lives to fulfil a specific mission or purpose in service to God. This calling often involves a commitment to live according to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.

The New Testament provides various passages that elucidate the distinct characteristics and objectives of different assemblies of believers:

• Acts 19:39, 41 describes a gathering of non-believers—termed heathens—who convened for political reasons, underscoring the broader concept of assembly that extends beyond spiritual gatherings into civic life.
• Acts 7:38 refers to the assembly of the Israelites under Moses, indicating their collective purpose of receiving God’s law—a pivotal moment in the formation of their identity as a chosen people.
• Ephesians 1:22-23 presents a theological perspective in which the church is articulated as the body of Christ, emphasising its profound spiritual significance and intimate connection to the divine mission of Jesus.
• In Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, Colossians 4:15, and Philemon 2, the focus shifts to local house churches. These references illuminate the practice of gathering in smaller, community-based assemblies, highlighting the importance of fellowship, worship, and the exchange of teachings in nurturing faith among the believers.

Together, these references illustrate the multifaceted meanings of “church” throughout biblical history and the rich tapestry of community, purpose, and divine engagement that characterises the assembly of believers today. The church is not merely an institution; it is a living embodiment of faith, hope, and love in action.

References:

• CPBC College Notes
• Systematic Theology by Henri Thessen