Jesus’ teachings about the church emphasize its foundation on faith, community, and love. He appointed Peter as a leader, assuring the church’s resilience against evil. The church serves as a place for worship, mutual support, and a global mission to spread His teachings. Love for God and others is central to its identity. Keep reading for a more in-depth cover on what Jesus said about the church.
If you’ve ever wondered what Jesus really said about the church, you’re in the right place.
Understanding Jesus’ teachings about the church can deepen your faith and provide clarity on how to live in a community of believers.
Let’s dive into Jesus’ words and explore what they mean for us today.
The Foundation of the Church
Jesus’ first mention of the church is found in the Gospel of Matthew.
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus tells Peter, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
This verse is packed with significance:
- Peter’s Role: Jesus recognizes Peter’s faith and leadership.
The name “Peter” (Petros) means “rock,” symbolizing stability and strength.
- The Rock: There’s debate about whether the “rock” refers to Peter himself or his declaration of faith in Jesus as the Messiah.
Many believe it’s the latter, emphasizing the importance of faith in Jesus as the cornerstone of the church.
- Resilience: Jesus assures that the church will withstand any attack from evil forces.
This promise provides hope and confidence that the church, despite challenges, will endure.
Key Takeaways
- The church is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ.
- Peter’s leadership and faith are crucial elements in the early church.
- The church is resilient and will prevail against evil.
The Purpose of the Church
Jesus outlines the purpose of the church in several ways, highlighting its role in the world.
A Place for Worship and Prayer
In Matthew 21:13, Jesus says, “My house will be called a house of prayer.”
This statement underscores the church’s role as a place of worship and prayer.
The church is meant to be a sanctuary where believers gather to connect with God and each other through prayer and worship.
A Community of Believers
Jesus emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support among believers.
In Matthew 18:20, He states, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
This shows that the presence of Jesus is not limited to physical buildings but is found wherever believers gather in His name.
The church, therefore, is not just a structure but a living, breathing community of faith.
A Mission to the World
One of Jesus’ most significant commands to the church is found in the Great Commission, recorded in Matthew 28:19-20: “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 mission highlights several key responsibilities of the church:
- Making Disciples: The church is called to evangelize and share the message of Jesus.
- Baptizing: Baptism is a public declaration of faith and a key sacrament in the church.
- Teaching: The church is tasked with teaching believers to follow Jesus’ commands.
Key Takeaways
- The church is a place for worship and prayer.
- It’s a community where believers support and encourage each other.
- The church has a global mission to spread the teachings of Jesus.
The Church and Love
Jesus consistently taught that love is central to the life of the church.
His teachings emphasize that the church should be characterized by love for God and for each other.
The Greatest Commandment
When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responded in Matthew 22:37-39, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” These commandments form the foundation of how the church should operate:
- Love for God: The church is called to prioritize a deep, abiding love for God.
- Love for Others: Members of the church are called to love and care for each other.
The New Commandment
Jesus also gave a new commandment to His disciples in John 13:34-35: “A new command I give you: Love one another.
As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
This love is a defining characteristic of the church and a powerful witness to the world.
Key Takeaways
- The church is called to love God wholeheartedly.
- Loving each other is a defining feature of the church.
- This love is a testimony to the world about Jesus’ disciples.
The Church as the Body of Christ
Paul, one of the early church leaders, expands on Jesus’ teachings by describing the church as the Body of Christ.
This metaphor, found in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, illustrates the church’s unity and diversity:
- Unity: All members are part of one body, the church, united by faith in Jesus.
- Diversity: Each member has unique gifts and roles, contributing to the church’s overall mission.
Jesus’ teachings about the church align with this metaphor.
He prayed for unity among His followers in John 17:21, saying, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”
Key Takeaways
- The church is unified as one body in Christ.
- There’s diversity within the church, with each member playing a unique role.
- Unity is essential for the church’s mission and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings about the church are profound and essential for understanding its role and purpose.
From its foundation on faith in Him to its mission to spread His teachings, the church is a vital community for believers.
It’s a place of worship, a community of love, and a unified body with a global mission.
As we reflect on these teachings, we can find guidance and inspiration for how to live as part of the church today.
Whether you’re a long-time church member or exploring faith, knowing what Jesus says about the church helps you appreciate its significance and your role within it.
Embrace these teachings and let them shape your journey in faith.
This article aimed to give you a clear, concise understanding of Jesus’ teachings about the church.
For a deeper dive, feel free to explore the Bible verses mentioned and reflect on how they apply to your life and community.
FAQs: What Does Jesus Say About the Church?
1. What did Jesus mean by building His church on the “rock”?
In Matthew 16:18, when Jesus mentions building His church on the “rock,”
He’s referring to the foundation of faith in Him as the Messiah.
While there’s debate about whether the “rock” refers specifically to Peter or to his confession of faith, the consensus is that Jesus is emphasizing the importance of faith in Him as the cornerstone of the church.
2. Why is the church referred to as a “house of prayer”?
Jesus called the church a “house of prayer” in Matthew 21:13, highlighting its role as a place where believers gather to connect with God through prayer and worship.
This emphasizes the church’s primary function as a spiritual sanctuary dedicated to fostering a close relationship with God.
3. How does Jesus define the church’s mission?
In the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), Jesus defines the church’s mission as making disciples of all nations, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey His commands.
This mission underscores the church’s responsibility to evangelize, nurture faith through baptism, and provide continuous spiritual education.
4. What is the significance of Jesus’ command to love one another?
Jesus’ command to “love one another” (John 13:34-35) is a fundamental principle for the church.
It signifies that love should be the defining characteristic of the church, setting believers apart as His disciples and serving as a powerful witness to the world.
5. How is the church described as the Body of Christ?
Paul describes the church as the Body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, highlighting the unity and diversity among believers.
This metaphor illustrates that all members are part of one body, united by faith in Jesus, but each with unique roles and gifts that contribute to the church’s mission.
6. Why is unity important in the church?
Unity is crucial in the church because it reflects the oneness that Jesus prayed for in John 17:21.
A united church is more effective in fulfilling its mission and serves as a strong testimony to the world about the power of Jesus’ love and His teachings.
7. What role does worship play in the church?
Worship is central to the church’s purpose.
It’s a time for believers to come together, honor God, and experience His presence.
Worship strengthens the community’s faith and reinforces the connection between believers and God.
8. How can I be a part of the church if I’m not attending a physical building?
Jesus emphasized that His presence is with any gathering of believers, as stated in Matthew 18:20.
You can be part of the church through small group gatherings, online communities, or any fellowship where believers come together in Jesus’ name.
9. What does it mean to be baptized in the church?
Baptism, as mentioned in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ.
It symbolizes dying to sin and being reborn into a new life in Christ.
It’s a key sacrament that signifies one’s commitment to following Jesus and becoming part of the church community.
10. How can I contribute to the church’s mission?
You can contribute to the church’s mission in various ways, such as sharing your faith, serving in church ministries, using your gifts to support the community, and living out Jesus’ teachings in your daily life.
Every member has a role, and your unique talents and efforts are valuable to the church’s overall mission.
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