SESSION 9

What is the Church?

The church is the body of Christ, made up of all believers.
We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and living stones being built into a spiritual house.
The church is God’s dwelling place and the temple of the Holy Spirit.
The vision of the church is a living organism that brings people together.
Ephesians 3:10 describes the manifold wisdom of God being displayed through the church – diverse, multifaceted, and beautiful.
The church carries God’s presence and the message of the Kingdom.
We are the bride of Christ, and Jesus is coming back for us.

The church is like a body with many parts – visible and hidden, but all valuable.
Even if someone feels insignificant, they are still vital to the body of Christ.
God has given each believer unique gifts and a purpose.

Teaching Biblical Doctrine:
- Leaders and preachers help believers understand the gospel and theology to grow in faith.
Fellowship and Community:
- The church is a place to gather, encourage, and love one another.
- We honour, instruct, and build each other up in faith.
Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice:
- Regular communion helps us remember the price Jesus paid.
Prayer and Intercession:
- The church is called to pray for the world, for salvation, and for revival.
- Prayer is the primary weapon in spiritual battle.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8):
- The church is called to make disciples of all nations.
- We go in God’s authority and power, not our own.
Meeting People's Needs:
- Acts 2 shows believers meeting spiritual, physical, and emotional needs.
- The church is called to serve the community in love.

The church carries the love of Jesus – the only power that can truly change lives.
Without a strong, Spirit-filled church, evil and depravity will spread.
The future of the world is in the hands of local congregations like ours.
The church is God’s instrument for transformation.