A Simple Explanation
When people talk about “the Church,” what comes to your mind? Is it a big building with stained glass and pews? Is it a place you visit only on Sundays? For a lot of us, “church” might mean a location or a weekly tradition. But if you look at what the Bible really says, the Church is much more than that—it’s about people, community, and living out God’s love every day.
The Church Is Not Just a Building
Let’s start with a basic idea: the Church isn’t a building or just a meeting—it’s a group of people who believe in Jesus. The word the Bible uses for “church” comes from the Greek word “ecclesia,” which simply means “a gathering” or “an assembly.” In the earliest days, the followers of Jesus didn’t even have special buildings. They met in each other’s homes, shared meals together, and supported one another like a family. Sometimes, they gathered in public places, like the temple courts, but the main point was always the people, not the place.
What Made the Early Church Special?
Those first believers did life together. The Bible says they were “one in heart and mind”—they cared for each other deeply and shared everything so nobody was left out. If someone was in need, others helped. They ate together, prayed together, and encouraged one another. It wasn’t just about rituals or routines; it was real community. They lived out their faith in a way that made everyone feel included and loved. That’s what made the Church stand out.
Living Like-Minded and United
You might wonder: what does it mean to be “like-minded”? The Bible encourages Christians to be united, having the same love, sharing the same spirit, and working together. It’s not about everyone being exactly alike, but about being united by the love of Jesus. It’s about caring for each other and putting others before ourselves.
There are several passages in the Bible that talk about this:
· Romans 15:5 – God gives us strength and encouragement to be united with one another.
· Philippians 2:2 – We are called to be like-minded, to love one another, and to be one in spirit and purpose.
· 1 Peter 3:8 – Christians should be sympathetic, compassionate, humble, and share love with each other.
Church Is a Way of Life
Graham Cooke, a Christian speaker, said, “We have to leave the building to engage the rest of the world.” In other words, Church isn’t just something we do for an hour on Sunday—it’s the way we live. We’re called to share good news, help others, and show Jesus’s love everywhere we go—at home, at work, in our neighborhoods, and beyond.
Following Jesus’s Example
The Apostle Paul, one of the early Church leaders, said that all his achievements and possessions meant nothing compared to knowing Jesus. He encouraged others to put their trust in Christ, not in material things. The early Christians shared what they had, cared for those in need, and didn’t treat their belongings as just their own. It wasn’t forced—people gave out of love and generosity, and everyone’s needs were met.
We Are the Church—Together
So, what does this mean for us today? It means that if you believe in Jesus, you are part of the Church. It’s not about a building or a program—it’s about being connected to others, looking out for each other, and living with kindness, love, and generosity. Each of us is a different part of the body, but together, we make something beautiful.
Wherever you are—at home, with friends, at work—you bring Church with you. You show God’s love by how you treat people and by sharing what you have. Church is God’s family, on display in everyday life.
Blessings to you—remember, you are the Church!
Minister Aleatha F Green
August 2025
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