The Body of Christ - Jesus, The Best Life Ever Lived

“[The purpose is] that through the church the complicated, many-sided wisdom of God in all its infinite variety and innumerable aspects might now be made known to the angelic rulers and authorities (principalities and powers) in the heavenly sphere.”

(Eph. 3:10 AMP)

With the profound statement, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19), Jesus announced the end of man-centred religion and unveiled the dawn of a transformative movement. This was not merely a meaningless proclamation but a revolutionary declaration of intent. What exactly was Jesus promising to raise in three days—a work so profound it would surpass centuries of temple-centered worship and redefine humanity’s approach to God?

Some part of the answer we find in Matt. 16:15-20, where Jesus asked His disciples “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Many interpret this scripture to mean that Peter is the rock on which the new Jesus movement would be built. History is not kind to Peter, particularly his compromise to play it safe with the circumcised Jews (Gal. 2:11-16). I suggest that the rock Jesus refers to is the God-given gift of revelation of who Christ really is. This revelation of Jesus’ true identity is the focal and essential starting point of salvation in Christ alone.

All these examples and all forthcoming followers of Christ would have a personal revelation of Him being their Messiah, Saviour, Redeemer, Healer and become part of His family – the Church:

The Samaritan Woman: “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet” (John 4:19).
The sinner on the cross: “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42).
John entering the grave: “he saw and believed” (John 20:8).
Thomas: “Because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
The disciples traveling to Emmaus: “Then their eyes were opened, and they knew Him” (Luke 24:31).

Paul: “And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (Acts 9:5-6)

Membership in this movement—God’s supernatural agency—is no longer defined by cultural or religious traditions, nor by having your name recorded in the registry of an institutional organization called “this or that” church. Instead, entering this spiritual family requires being “born again” through the Spirit of God. As Jesus declared, “No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again” (John 3:3-5), and as Peter affirmed, “we are reborn, not of perishable seed, but through the living and enduring word of God” (1 Pet. 1:23).

Jesus Starts a Movement – Not a Formal Structure

The Followers Of “The Way”

The first name of this movement was: “Those of the Way “(Acts 9: 2; 24:14, 22). It implies a recognizable, differentiation in lifestyle. In modern terms, we would talk about people following a particular diet method like the banters or vegans. Today, churches are identified by their type of church building, style of music, category of doctrines, and denominational determination of beliefs. Perhaps the church would have gained more traction among people if the distinction had merely been our Christ-centered lifestyle.

But what made their particular lifestyle different? What made the early church culturally diverse as first believers who stood out?

Rapid Growth

The number of Christians grew particularly rapidly in the first centuries.

“And it came to pass after two years, that all the inhabitants of Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.” (Acts 19:10)

The main reasons for this growth according to Dreyer’s historical perspective on the early church were the first-hand reliable testimonies of people who encountered Christ in a personal way, supernatural “charismata” of the gifts, the mission-driven focus and willingness to make sacrifices (even to be tortured and martyred). [1]

Internalised Christ-centred Value system

The value system of the Christian faith that Jesus taught His disciples was not preserved in documents, but practically authentically lived out in daily actions. Values such as mercy, mutual support, self-control, respect for life and practical love have convinced many people that the Christian faith is valuable. One of the hallmarks of the early Christians was their respect for life as a gift from God. They did not participate in practices such as child murder, abortion or the sale of children to slave traders.

The early believers’ values were:

Do good to each other.
Avoid evil such as theft, fraud and jealousy.
Show hospitality to strangers.
Take care of each other and share food and belongings with each other.
Show mercy to all people.
Care for the carers and nursing of the sick.
Households testify to dignity, responsibility, sense of duty, honor and obedience.
Ethnic diversity is accepted.
Women, children and slaves are treated with respect.
Respect for life prevents abortion and infanticide.
Martyrdom and the willingness to “take up your cross”. [2]

A Radical New Movement

Jesus introduced two novel Greek terms to discribe this new movement.

It is significant that Jesus chose to use two contemporary Greek terms—apostolos and ekklesia—rather than relying on Old Testament Jewish or Hebrew terms as the foundation for this new movement. This intentional choice highlights His desire to communicate in a way that resonated with both the Greco-Roman world and His Jewish audience, while also signaling the universal and transformative nature of His mission.

Apostollos
Ekklesia

Apostolos
The Greek word apostolos appears 81 times in the New Testament and does not appear in the Old Testament, as the term itself did not yet exist in the Hebrew Scriptures. In its original Greek context, apostolos referred to an ambassador, agent, envoy, or messenger—someone sent on a mission, entrusted with a specific service, business, assignment, judicial responsibility, or as a bearer of a commission. This term carried the sense of being sent with authority to act on behalf of the one who commissioned them.

Ekklesia
The second significant term Jesus introduces is ekklesia, commonly understood as “an assembly of called-out ones.” This concept represents a shift from traditional Jewish terms to a broader, more universal language of gathering and purpose. Interestingly, in the New Testament, the word ekklesia is used not only to refer to the church but also to secular gatherings, such as the rioting crowd in Acts 19:32 and 19:40.

In the Old Testament, similar ideas are conveyed through various Hebrew terms that describe the gathering of God’s people:

The meeting (qahal): “Then David said to the whole assembly, ‘Praise the LORD your God’” (1 Chron. 29:20).
The congregation of God (kahal Elohim): “On that day the Book of Moses was read aloud in the hearing of the people, and there it was found written…” (Neh. 13:1)
The assembly of God’s people: “…was there in the assembly of the people of God” (Judg. 20:2).
The assembly of the upright: “Let them exalt Him also in the assembly of the people…” (Ps. 107:32).
The assembly of His faithful servants: “Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise in the assembly of His faithful servants” (Ps. 149:1).

By choosing ekklesia, Jesus bridges familiar Jewish concepts with a term that could engage the Greco-Roman world, pointing to a new kind of assembly that transcends ethnic, cultural, and geographical boundaries—a community called out by God for His purpose.

Jesus the Head, Heart and Soul of His Body

Just as the brain functions as the control center of the human body, directing every movement, thought, and function to sustain life and harmony, so Christ is the control center of His body, the church. He is the Head, from whom every part of the church receives direction, purpose, and nourishment (Col. 1:18; Eph. 4:15-16). Without the brain, the body cannot function properly; without Christ, the church loses its essence and purpose.

Similarly, Eugene Marais’ groundbreaking discovery of the “soul” of the ant heap offers a vivid metaphor. Just as the queen ant provides a unifying and life-sustaining presence to the colony, Christ is the unifying life source of the church. Marais observed that the ant heap functions as a single organism, with each ant working in seamless cooperation, directed by an unseen, guiding force. This mirrors the church, where every member has a unique role and function, all working together under the lordship of Christ.

An Assembly / On a Mission

It is very instructive that Jesus’ description and designation of this new movement and revolution is merely an assembly / or gathering of people:

“…when you come together as a church…” (1 Cor. 11:18)

“How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” (1 Cor. 14:26)

Gatherings in a given area such as Galatia (1 Cor. 16:1).
The churches of Christ in Judea (Gal. 1:22).
“He traveled through Syria and Cilicia and strengthened the congregations spiritually” (Acts 15:41).

Perhaps we would see less division among churches if we recognized them as diverse gatherings of believers around the world, united by a single vision and mandate: to embody and reflect Christ. Together, we form One Church, living out His mission in harmony despite our differences. Unfortunately, many churches compete to become known as the only true and most accurate church, opposed to all the other false churches… sad reality indeed!

Donald Swenson made the following opservations in regards to the power of the assembly, gathering of people as a regular habitual ritual and it’s positive effects:

“Remembering” – i.e., the way in which ritual reminds both individuals and social groups about their heritage and past.
“Social bonding” – i.e., the way in which ritual functions to bond persons together, increase levels of social cohesion and strengthen group solidarity.
“Regulating moral behavior” – i.e., the way in which ritual regulates the behavior of societal members and in the process maintains moral order.
“Socialization and changes in social statutes” – i.e., the way in which ritual enables the transition of an individual from one status to another (for example, marriage).
“Psychological development” – i.e., the way in which ritual facilitates a sense of psychological wellbeing amongst individuals and groups.
“Bonding to nature” – i.e. the way in which ritual integrates people with nature.
“Empowerment” – i.e., the way in which ritual assists individuals and whole groups in feeling stronger, less disaffected and more ready to serve others. [3]

If the church would busy itself with all the work that God has set out for us to do, we will never have to compete with each other as a variaty of different churches!

Is The Body a Building or a Gathering of People?

Unfortunately, since the first tabernacle, the enemy has been trying to lead the followers of God to a static building and an impersonal human-oriented institution through religious practice.

“Thus says the Lord: “Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist,” Says the Lord.“But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word.“He who kills a bull is as if he slays a man; He who sacrifices a lamb, as if he breaks a dog’s neck; He who offers a grain offering, as if he offers swine’s blood; He who burns incense, as if he blesses an idol. Just as they have chosen their own ways, And their soul delights in their abominations,” (Isa. 66:1-3)

The early church’s gatherings were marked by simplicity and authenticity, focusing on the presence of God among His people rather than on physical structures or elaborate presentations. Believers met in homes, sharing meals and worshiping together in an intimate setting, as described in Acts 2:46. These meetings were not about the location but about the shared faith and unity in Christ.

The glory of God was evident in transformed lives and the work of the Holy Spirit. Awe wasn’t inspired by ornate buildings or grand rituals but by the powerful changes seen in ordinary people (Acts 2:43). Worship was deeply relational, grounded in the mutual encouragement of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, as Paul urged in Colossians 3:16. The “temple” they revered was the body of Christ—the people themselves—who were in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19).

In contrast, many modern churches place significant emphasis on buildings, stage design, and professionalized worship experiences. While these elements can enhance the atmosphere, they often risk overshadowing the simplicity and power of God’s presence working through His people. The early church reminds us that worship is about transformation, not theatrics.

To recover these early principles, churches today can refocus on the community rather than the facility. Meeting in homes, small groups, or informal spaces fosters the same intimacy that characterized the first believers. Sharing testimonies of God’s work in people’s lives highlights His glory and emphasizes transformation over performance. Decentralizing leadership and encouraging all members to actively contribute, as Paul described in 1 Corinthians 14:26, can create a more participatory and empowering environment.

Ultimately, prioritizing authenticity over aesthetics, and people over places helps churches reflect the early church’s essence. This shift not only aligns with biblical principles but also meets the modern world’s longing for genuine community and real encounters with God.

The Problem With Translations

Thomas More’s criticism of William Tyndale’s Bible translation centered on Tyndale’s rendering of specific Greek terms, which More believed undermined established Church doctrines. Tyndale’s translations included:

Presbuteros as “elder” instead of “priest”,
Ekklesia as “congregation” instead of “church”,
Metanoeo as “repent” instead of “do penance”,
Exomologeo as “acknowledge” or “admit” instead of “confess”,
Agape as “love” rather than “charity”.

These choices were seen as challenging the theological foundations of the Roman Catholic Church. For instance, translating presbuteros as “elder” diminished the traditional role of priests, while rendering ekklesia as “congregation” shifted the focus from the institutional Church to the assembly of believers. Similarly, translating metanoeo as “repent” instead of “do penance” questioned the sacrament of penance. These translations were part of Tyndale’s broader effort to make the Scriptures accessible and understandable to the common people, aligning with his reformist views. [4]

If the orginal meaning and “why” words of the Jesus movement can be captured to mean something different, you eventually capture the movement.

Tyndale, like Jesus and the first followers, would eventually pay with his life when he was sentenced to death as a heretic. Luther, Calvin, Zwingli and Knox were the successors of this Reformation to return to the truth.

It might be necessary, in our time, to reconsider using the word church when referring to the true body and community of believers, in order to avoid confusion. The term church often implies the institutional, formal structure rather than the spiritual body of Christ. Yet, the challenge remains that within every formal church there are true believers—those genuinely abiding in Christ. Thus, we cannot simply “throw the baby out with the bathwater”.

This tension is not new; the early apostles faced similar struggles. Paul’s letters repeatedly emphasize the necessity of abiding in Christ, pointing to spiritual maturity and alignment with His image (Gal. 4:19; Col. 1:28–29; 2 Cor. 11:2; 1 Cor. 2:2; 2 Pet. 1:8; Eph. 4:13).

The principle of Sola Semper Reformanda—that the church must always be reforming—reminds us that our focus must continually return to Christ. The church’s mission is not static but an ongoing transformation into His image. This Christ-centered focus must guide every congregation, denomination, organization, ministry, or movement within the body of Christ.

Ultimately, as Paul teaches, all expressions of the body find their source and direction in the Head, who is Christ Himself (Eph. 1:22–23). By maintaining this central focus, we preserve the unity and purpose of the true church, even amid diversity and imperfection.

The early church functioned as an organic, living, breathing organism, starkly different from the institutional church as we know it today. This expression of Jesus Christ on earth was revealed through the active participation of each member in His Body, operating according to their unique roles and spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12-14). It stood in radical contrast to formal religion.

Key Characteristics of the Early Church

Organic Growth Rooted in Resurrection Faith
The growth of the early church was natural and relational, centered on the shared belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This conviction ignited a powerful movement (John 2:22; Luke 24:33-35; John 20:8,18,26-28; Acts 2:32; 3:15; 4:33; Phil. 3:10; 1 Cor. 2:2).
Gatherings in Homes
The first believers met in homes rather than purpose-built church buildings or temples, fostering intimacy and genuine community (Acts 20:20; Rom. 16:3, 5; 1 Cor. 16:19).
Relational Networks of Growth
Relationships formed the backbone of the church. People were received into the community based on personal recommendation, such as in Philemon’s case. This connection emphasized trust and relational discipleship.
Communion as a Shared Meal
The Lord’s Supper was celebrated as a communal meal, embodying unity and equality. The bread symbolized sustenance for the poor, while the wine reflected the abundance of the wealthy, reconciling all members in one act of fellowship (1 Cor. 11:21-34).
Active Participation by All
Every member contributed to gatherings through teachings, songs, revelations, and encouragement, fostering an atmosphere of mutual edification (1 Cor. 14:26; Heb. 10:24-25).
Functioning as a Spiritual Family
The church saw itself as a family, bound by love, mutual care, and shared responsibility. They treated one another as brothers and sisters, emphasizing unity and compassion (Gal. 6:10; 1 Tim. 5:1-2; Rom. 12:5; Eph. 4:15; 1 Cor. 12:25-26; 2 Cor. 8:12-15).
Non-Hierarchical Leadership
Leadership was not hierarchical but diverse and service-oriented. Elders and overseers served the community without lording authority over others (Acts 20:17, 28-29; Matt. 20:25-28; Luke 22:25-26). Traveling apostles and prophets played vital roles in strengthening congregations (Acts 13-21).
Unity Across Regions
The early church functioned as a unified Body, with believers in various locations interconnected and ministering together (Acts 8:1; 13:1; 18:22; Rom. 16:1; 1 Thess. 1:1).
Leadership Without Titles or Distinctions
Titles and positions were not emphasized. Instead, roles were defined by function, not status. Unlike the religious leaders of their time, who wore identifiable attire, early Christian leaders often moved in secrecy due to persecution and avoided visible distinctions (Matthew 23:8-12). The early church rejected the hierarchical “pyramid schemes” of leadership common in the ancient world. Leaders modeled servanthood, echoing Jesus’ words: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matt. 20:25-28).
Deeply Authentic Supernatural Spirituality.
|The early church’s most distinguishing characteristic was its demonstration of supernatural spirituality, as evidenced by its reliance on the Holy Spirit to manifest divine power in everyday life. Early church fathers like Justin Martyr, in his First Apology, testified to healings, exorcisms, and other miracles continuing among Christians as evidence of Christ’s power. Irenaeus of Lyons, in Against Heresies (Book 2, Chapter 32), documented believers performing miracles, healing the sick, and even raising the dead, attributing these acts to the Spirit of God working through ordinary followers of Christ. These supernatural signs were not confined to a select few but were part of the life of the community, with spiritual gifts such as prophecy, healing, and discernment being distributed among believers, as described in 1 Corinthians 12-14. The church’s boldness in evangelism, often in the face of persecution, was another mark of this divine empowerment, as noted by Tertullian, who remarked on the unstoppable nature of the Spirit-led church in Apology (Chapter 50). This supernatural demonstration of faith not only validated the gospel but also set the early church apart from philosophical and religious systems of its time, showcasing the transformative power of the risen Christ.

This dynamic, Spirit-led movement prioritized relationships, community, and shared purpose, setting a profound example of what it means to embody the Kingdom of God on earth.

The Body of Jesus

One of God’s primary provisions to us, besides the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, is the Body of Christ. For God to become human, He needed a body (Heb. 10: 5). The omnipresent, almighty and omniscient God comes to dwell in a human body! It’s His first great act of love to us! His incarnation! (Heb. 4:14-15.).

He needed a body to do good to mankind, to heal the sick, to defeat the power of evil, and to care for the orphan, the widow, and the poor.

Jesus becomes flesh today through His church. The church is His Body. The fullness of God is revealed in His Body (Eph. 4: 11-16; Eph. 5:30; Eph. 2: 19-22; 1 Cor. 12:12).

We also need a body to do God’s will. We can not bring the Kingdom of God to earth as it is in heaven without a body.

“Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.

This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” (Eph. 4:11-16 NLT)

“… And we are members of his body.” (Eph. 5:30, NLT)

“So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. Through him you Gentiles are also being made part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.” (Eph. 2:19-22, NLT)

“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ.” (1 Cor. 12:12, NLT)

How Does God Build His Church?

God’s structure and means of reproduction is through a family. When the church loses the character of a family, we lose the value and power of His Kingdom. God explains His Kingdom to us in terms of family, fathers, young people and children (1 John 2: 12-14).

In the same way, the body is connected as a family. On the contrary, the congregation to which you belong becomes your true family! Many of us who are converted no longer feel so at home and comfortable around our blood family because our heart has changed in essence. Even Jesus called His spiritual friends and disciples His true family to His own mother and brothers (Matt. 12: 46-50).

This involves: you have to get involved in people’s lives. There is a wonderful dynamic that begins to apply when people who serve the Lord become involved in each other’s lives.

What it takes to build community

Peeling back the masks and facades that people use for self-protection requires courage and compassion. It invites us to truly love one another without pretense—a love that is genuine, raw, and unfiltered. This kind of love demands vulnerability, a willingness to open ourselves up, even at the risk of being hurt.

When we see Christ in one another, it humbles us. It challenges our pride, diffuses jealousy, and reminds us that the same grace that works in us is also working in the other. It compels us to look beyond flaws and imperfections to the divine image and potential in each person.

Relationships, however, can get messy. Conflict, misunderstanding, and disappointment are inevitable. Yet, it is often in these struggles that we experience the deepest growth. The tension, pain, and messiness become the refining fires where patience, forgiveness, and love are forged.

The tragedy is that many give up too soon. Instead of waiting for redemption—allowing time and grace to transform the negative into a positive—they walk away. But those who remain, those who commit to the hard work of reconciliation and transformation, often discover the beauty of relationships redeemed by grace. These relationships are stronger, deeper, and richer, becoming a testimony of Christ’s redemptive power.

True community is not found in perfection but in perseverance—sticking together through the mess, trusting that the negatives can become positives in Christ’s hands. It is here that we learn to love as He loves us: unconditionally, sacrificially, and with unwavering hope.

There is Only One Body

“For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future.” (Eph. 4:4)

The glory of God is already locked up in His Body

We can only experience the fullness of God’s glory when we see Christ in one another and actively work to unlock the gifts He has placed within each of us. Just as Jesus, though fully divine, was born into a human body that had to grow and mature before stepping into His earthly ministry, so the church is in a process of preparation, being shaped for the final hour of her glory. And just as people rejected, denied, and ultimately crucified Him, the church will also face opposition, yet it is in the darkest hour that her greatest glory will be revealed. May God grant us the spiritual vision, like Peter’s, to recognize and celebrate His salvation in and through His church!

The truth of the one body in Christ is profound. It reminds us that the believers we know in our local congregation or immediate circle are only a small part of the larger Body of Christ. Vast parts of this Body remain unknown to us, yet they are just as vital and connected, and at times, they may serve as channels of blessing to us—or we to them.

Just as a tibia is connected to a femur through the knee joint, our local community of faith is interconnected with the larger Body of Christ. However, there are countless other functions and parts in the Body that we may never directly encounter, yet we are all nourished and sustained by the same life-giving Spirit. The church, as Christ’s Body, operates as a beautifully intricate system where each part, whether seen or unseen, known or unknown, contributes to the life and mission of the whole.

This interconnected reality calls us to humility and unity. While we are called to be deeply engaged and committed to our local community, we must also recognize and honor the broader Body of Christ, understanding that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. It is this mutual dependence and divine connection that ensures every part, no matter how small or hidden, receives life and provision from the whole. May we embrace this vision and work together, united under Christ as the Head, for the glory of His kingdom!

Each person within the Body of Christ has a unique ministry, focus, and purpose, all working together for the benefit of the whole. Just as the eye exists to see for the sake of the body, every member serves their distinct role to contribute to the greater good. It is precisely this diversity of roles that fosters growth in us.

Often, the individuals we find most challenging are the very ones God uses to shape us. The eye may be tempted to judge the body for not seeing, but those parts likely have a different, vital function. Let each member fulfil their role without complaint or comparison. When we feel, “Only I am making sacrifices”, we must resist the urge to compare and instead focus on faithfully serving the Lord (John 21:22).

For further reflection, consider the Roseto Effect, a fascinating story of a small Italian-American community that thrived through close-knit relationships and mutual care. This concept beautifully illustrates how interconnectedness fosters health and growth.

Here’s a summary from Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers: Roseto Effect.http://yocuzlawyers.com/2011/06 / the-roseto-effect-the-valley-of-the-roses /

God has decided to reveal to them how blessed and glorious this mystery is to the nations. Its content is: “Christ is in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27). The word “you” is a collective pronoun and can be translated as “Christ among you and in you”. Christ is in you but there will never again be a Christ manifested in His fullness in one person. Christ’s fullness can only be glorified by a body of people. The church is His Body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all (Eph. 1:23).

“As the new wine is found in the cluster, And one says, “Do not destroy it, For a blessing is in it.” (Isa. 65:8)

The Body As Three Parts

The New Testament contains three significant passages where Paul declares that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Each passage, when read in its proper context, addresses a specific audience and situation, revealing a nuanced understanding of what it means to be God’s dwelling place.

1. 1 Cor. 3:16–17: The Church in Corinth and Division

Paul writes:
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”

Here, Paul is addressing the Corinthian church corporately, particularly in the context of sectarianism and division within the community. The you in this passage is plural, emphasizing that the local church collectively is God’s temple. Paul warns against behaviors that harm the unity of the church, as it is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. This underscores the importance of fostering harmony and preserving the sanctity of the church community.

2. 1 Cor. 6:19–20: The Individual and Sexual Purity

Paul writes:
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

In this instance, Paul is addressing individuals, specifically in the context of sexual immorality. The passage appears in a broader discussion about avoiding sinful practices, including prostitution. Here, Paul highlights the personal responsibility of each believer to honor God with their body, as it is the temple of the Holy Spirit. This verse calls for personal holiness and a recognition of the sacredness of our physical bodies as vessels of God’s Spirit.

3. 2 Cor. 6:16: The Universal Church and Holiness

Paul writes:
“What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, ‘I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.'”

Here, Paul shifts his focus to the universal church, emphasizing the collective identity of believers as God’s temple. The context is a call to refrain from idolatry and maintain holiness, as God’s people are set apart for Him. Paul draws on Old Testament imagery and promises to remind the church of their covenantal relationship with God. This passage reinforces the idea that the church, as a global and eternal body, must remain pure and distinct from worldly practices.

Key Insights:

Corporate Unity (1 Cor.3:16): The local church is a collective temple, and unity is crucial for reflecting Gods presence.
Personal Purity (1 Cor. 6:19): Each believer’s body is a temple, calling for individual responsibility to glorify God through holy living.
Universal Holiness (2 Cor. 6:16): The global church must avoid idolatry and reflect the holiness of God as His chosen people.

The United Rule of These 3 Parts

During the Feast of Tabernacles, a priest holds up an etrog (a citrus fruit) and symbolically points it in the four cardinal directions, as well as toward heaven and earth, proclaiming God’s sovereign rule over all creation. The etrog is particularly significant because of its unique structure: a cell within a cell, within another cell, resembling layers of unity. Jewish tradition often interprets the etrog as a symbol of spiritual wholeness and inclusion, which some Christian perspectives extend to represent the church—a unified entity where Jew and Gentile are brought together into one body through Christ (Eph. 2:14-16). This imagery reflects the rich theological metaphor of unity within diversity under God’s reign.

The church is not just a building or institution—it begins with you as an individual, a living part of Christ’s Body. Yet, as an individual, you are called to be connected to a local body of believers in your area or town. Together, these local congregations form the universal Body of Christ. Unity is only complete when we are actively part of all three levels: individual faith, local fellowship, and the global church.

When a church allows members who are not truly born again, it risks devolving into a sacralist system—focused on external membership rather than genuine spiritual transformation. Similarly, when a congregation isolates itself from the broader Body of Christ, it can drift into sectarianism, losing the richness of collective wisdom and accountability. Likewise, an individual who isolates themselves from a local church becomes vulnerable, lacking the protection, support, and encouragement of community.

Every believer is called to submit to and actively participate in a local body, despite its imperfections. This process fosters spiritual growth, as it teaches us to navigate differences, extend grace, and work through challenges together. Isolation, on the other hand, often stems from pride, a sense of superiority, or a self-focused pursuit (Proverbs 18:1). True growth happens not in avoiding community but in the commitment to unity, choosing to stay together even when it’s difficult, and reflecting the love and humility of Christ.

The Holy Spirit Is the Breath of His Body

In the Gospel of John, after His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and imparted the Holy Spirit to them through a symbolic act:

“And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” (John 20:22, ESV)

This act of breathing on the disciples is significant, as it parallels the creation narrative where God breathed life into Adam (Gen. 2:7). By breathing on His disciples, Jesus symbolically imparted spiritual life and empowerment, preparing them for their mission.

The Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost as most Christian churches call it, is the second most important feast on the Jewish calendar:

The Feast of Pentecost commemorates the moment when Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai. This event occurred on the fiftieth day, seven full weeks after the first sickle was put to the grain (Deut. 16:9). The significance of the number 50 lies in the timeframe between Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and their arrival at Sinai (Ex. 19:1), where they received the Law.

The day of Pentecost was calculated from the second day of Passover. The term “Pentecost” comes from the Greek word hè pentekostè, meaning “the fiftieth”. The feast was instituted by the Lord, with its regulations handed down to Moses (Lev. 23:15-21). In the New Testament, this feast finds its ultimate fulfilment on the fiftieth day after Jesus’ resurrection, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples gathered in the upper room, fulfilling Jesus’ promise (Acts 1:5,8; Matt.3:11).

On this day, the Holy Spirit inaugurated the new covenant, writing God’s law on the hearts of believers rather than on tablets of stone, as prophesied by Jeremiah (Jer. 31:31-34). This marked a transformative shift, empowering the church to live out the righteousness of God through the indwelling Spirit.

Similarities Between Sinai and Pentecost:

Wind and Fire:

“On the morning of the third day, thunder roared and lightning flashed, and a dense cloud came down on the mountain. There was a long, loud blast from a ram’s horn, and all the people trembled. Moses led them out from the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. All of Mount Sinai was covered with smoke because the Lord had descended on it in the form of fire. The smoke billowed into the sky like smoke from a brick kiln, and the whole mountain shook violently.” (Ex. 19:16-18)

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:2)

3000 people:

In Ex. 32:28 3,000 men are killed as punishment for their fear, unbelief and the making of a false god.

After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, 3,000 people are converted!

Physical and Spiritual Temple:

During Moses’ time at Sinai, instructions were given to build a tent of meeting. Later the people are called to offer voluntary sacrifices for the erection of a sanctuary (Ex. 25:1).

“And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” (Ex. 25:8)

After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we as believers are referred to as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 3:16; 2 Cor. 6:19; 2 Cor. 6:16; 1 Cor. 6:19). The church of Jesus Christ becomes the building and temple of God, built with living stones (Eph. 2:21).

Two Breads:

The custom of waving two loaves before the Lord in the OT is very interesting. Especially when you consider that no sacrifice to the Lord may have contained leaven (Lev. 2:11). But in this case, the two loaves are baked from the produce of the harvest, with leaven, and waved before the Lord. The Jews see the two loaves as the Jews and the Gentiles.

This is a mystery that is only later explained by Paul that God through Christ removed the middle wall between Jew and Gentile. (Eph. 2:11-22). Remember, when the Jews fled from Egypt, there were those of mixed blood who came out together (Ex. 12:37, 38). In other words, all who heard the word and had blood on their doorposts in faith and obedience were spared.

God’s heart is that all nations will be saved (Ps. 72:11; Matt. 28:19; Rev. 22:2). But Gentiles as well as Jews have an inherent heart problem with sin. Both are trapped in the power of sin and cannot liberate themselves. On the day of Pentecost, every nation under heaven hears the disciples testify in their own language about the miracles of God!

Separation Removed:

The author of Hebrews sheds even more light on the fulfillment of the feast and how God placed His true intention of what was to happen at Sinai in Acts. 2 on Pentecost. Unlike the Israelites who came to Mount Sinai when God gave them His Law, they did not arrive at a physical mountain with burning fire, thunderclouds, darkness, stormy wind, trumpet blasts and a speaking voice. At Sinai, those who heard it begged God not to speak to them. God’s command that even an animal that touched the mountain with its paw should be put to death, caused them to stumble. Yes, so frightening was the sight of everything that Moses exclaimed, “I am absolutely terrified, I tremble with fear!” (Heb. 12: 18-21). God wanted to reveal Himself personally to a group of people, His people, His elect, but man could not stand or handle the glory. In fear and disobedience, they will make an idol for themselves.

On the day of Pentecost, the Lord pours out His Spirit in us, and the culmination of hundreds of years of promise and divine expectation occurs when man sees and experiences God face to face. This is the climax and true meaning of what happens during the filling with the Holy Spirit. The first encounter of the first followers with the living God is the birthplace of the movement that will change the world.

“For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and darkness and tempest, and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore. (For they could not endure what was commanded: “And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow.” And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, “I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.”

But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.” (Heb. 12:18-24)

Unity is the GLORY of the NT Temple

Unity is the hallmark of the New Covenant, reflecting the glory of God in a way that parallels the Old Testament, where His presence filled the temple with a visible cloud. In the New Covenant, this glory is revealed through the indwelling and active presence of the Holy Spirit, particularly in the collective life of the Body of Christ. Just as the cloud signified God’s nearness in the temple, the Holy Spirit’s work within a united group of believers manifests His presence, power, and purpose in a tangible and transformative way. This unity becomes a living testimony of God’s glory in and through His people.

History is made when the right people come together and make a decision. All movements and revolutions originated at a gathering of people who maintain and pursue the same sentiments and values. Community is therefore not one kind of gathering. It’s every time we get together in various space and places to demonstrate the Kingdom Rule of God here on Earth as it is in Heaven.

God’s glory is revealed either in you as an individual (the temple of the Holy Spirit) or in the gathering of believers. God’s glory rests on the gathering, not the institution of church. God blesses a body of believers because together they do His will on earth. But the church as an organization is merely a name to identify a collection of believers. You receive no benefit if you are only part of a church in name and never attend any activities.

“not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Heb. 10:25)

v.16: “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them”

v. 19-20: “Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh,” (Matt. 18:16, 20)

God’s Power Evident in Unity

Without UNITY no GLORY!

“that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me..” (John 17:21)

You cannot have unity with God without being in unity with His Body. Unity and connection with each other is unity with God. The operation is reciprocal and absolute (1 John 4:20).

It is extremely important for God’s Spirit to work in the gathering so that we are in unity with one another. The power of the Church of Acts was in their unity.

These all continued with one accord in prayer … (Acts 1:14).
They were all together in one place … (Acts 2:1).
They all faithfully gathered at the temple every day and held the communal meals from house to house (Acts 2:46).
And all the faithful assembled together at the going up of Solomon’s pillar …(Acts 5:12).
The multitude obeyed the words of Philip (Acts 8:6).
When they heard this, they all prayed to God together, saying… Acts 4:24.
The great number who became believers were one of heart and soul (Acts 4:32).
Therefore, we have unanimously decided to select men and send them to you (Acts 15:25).

House of Living Stones

“You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:5)

During the relentless pressures exerted by society, it is all too common to feel compressed and fashioned into shapes that don’t truly reflect who we are. Just like trying to fit “square pegs into round holes”, we often find ourselves attempting to conform to norms and regulations that don’t align with our values and beliefs. The prevailing sentiment is that a sense of disconnection, confusion, and disorientation prevails.

Turning our gaze back to the Old Testament, we learn God’s instruction to construct the altar of the Tabernacle with natural stones. It was to be untouched by human tools (Exodus 20:24-25). These stones symbolize authenticity and purity, dynamically contributing to our willingness to cooperate and be considerate of one another. The Spirit of Christ then draws us into the unity He brings in the Body of Christ.

The Church, as a spiritual dwelling, should be assembled with stones that have not been “chiseled by human hands”, but by the refining work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, as a community of believers, we are called to discern and recognize the presence of Christ in one another as a supernatural flow of intimacy with Him in our own lives. As we thus unite in our focus upon Him, His anointing of connectedness flows as “living sacrifice”, just as the Old Testament altar received offerings.

The course of the Holy Spirit and how He creates the rebirth of the human spirit cannot be preordained, charted, or controlled. There exists no predefined mold or rigid form to which we must conform. Instead, our obedience is called forth within the context of each unique moment, place, and encounter.

The way of the Spirit transcends the confines of being ensnared in extreme paradoxes. It beckons us to be flexible, embracing Christ’s multifaceted nature in every circumstance. This is the heart of being a living stone—responsive to the Spirit’s leading and finding Christ’s redemptive work woven into the tapestry of every situation.

In these moments, He CONSTRUCTS and BUILDS His TEMPLE of LIVING STONES.

Let us continue with:

hearts attuned to the Spirit’s whispers
ready to embody the paradoxical beauty of Christ
responding with faithful obedience, no matter the circumstances
resistance to the allure of self-sufficiency
avoiding misguided alliances
placing Christ as the cornerstone of our values
embracing the apostolic and prophetic shaping in your life, and let God chisel you into a reflection of His Son
finding our place in God’s grand design and so contributing to a society rooted in justice, compassion, and the image of Christ

This imagery leads us to understand that God constructs TEMPLES – Holy Places and Spaces every time we meet together. As we continue to obey and fulfill His commands at these Holy MOMENTS of Holy convocations – we eventually re-establish gardens of Eden as the knowledge of the Lord fills the earth, as the waters covers the sea!

God’s Eternal Plan for His Body

The eternal value and essence of the church are rooted in its foundational role in God’s eternal plan. By examining the following verses, we see that the church is central to God’s purposes and His relationship with humanity. Let’s unpack these scriptures to understand the church’s eternal significance.

1. 1 Tim. 3:15: The Church as the Pillar and Ground of Truth

“But if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

This verse underscores the church’s role as the foundation and support of the truth, which is ultimately Christ Himself (John 14:6). The church is not just an institution; it is the household of God, built to uphold and proclaim the eternal truth of Christ to the world. Like the temple in the Old Testament, the church is central to the believer’s life and faith, shaping every stage of existence—birth, education, work, marriage, parenthood, and even old age. It serves as the place where God’s truth is lived, taught, and shared, forming the bedrock of a Christ-centered life.

2. Ephesians 1:22-23: The Church as the Physical Representation of Christ

“And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.”

Here, Paul highlights the cosmic and eternal scope of the church. Christ, as the Head, rules over all creation, and the church is His body, through which His presence, power, and fullness are manifest. The church is not an optional addition to God’s plan, but the primary means through which Christ’s mission continues in the world. It is the vessel through which believers experience His fullness and participate in His redemptive work. The imagery of the body also emphasizes unity, diversity, and interdependence, reflecting the eternal value of the church in fulfilling God’s purposes.

3. Heb. 12:22-23: The Church as the Heavenly Assembly

“But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect.”

This passage elevates the church beyond its earthly dimensions, showing its eternal reality as the heavenly assembly. The church is part of God’s eternal kingdom, connecting believers to the worship of God in heaven alongside angels and the saints who have gone before us. It reminds us that the church is not just a physical or temporal entity but a spiritual reality with eternal significance. Every believer is part of this “church of the firstborn,” registered in heaven, belonging to the eternal city of God.

4. 1 Pet. 2:9: The Church as a Holy People

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

This verse describes the identity and mission of the church. The church is not merely a collection of individuals but a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. Its purpose is to declare the praises of God, who has called His people out of darkness into His marvelous light. This verse emphasizes the transformative nature of the church and its eternal calling to glorify God by living as His distinct people in the world. It reflects the priestly and prophetic role of the church, bridging humanity and God while proclaiming His truth.

The Eternal Essence of the Church

From these verses, we see the church’s eternal essence and value. The church is far more than a human institution or social gathering. It is God’s eternal plan made manifest on earth and in heaven. Its value lies in its divine purpose, its Christ-centered identity, and its mission to uphold the truth and glorify God. As members of the church, we are called to embrace its central role in our lives and live as part of this eternal and holy body, fulfilling God’s will for His glory.

Benefits of Being Part of a Body of Believers

1. Protection:

“Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” (Prov. 11:14, NLT)

There is so much protection to make decisions within a body because one can so easily deceive one’s own heart (Jer. 19:9).

2. Stronger Together:

Our battle against the authorities (“principalities”) in a certain area can never take place as individuals, but only through a body of believers (Matt. 16:18; Eph. 3:10). It is an age-old principle that Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight – a multiplication-synergy effect (Lev. 26:8).

The Accurate Church, like any other organization, needs a critical mass of people to truly make a difference in an environment. Note that we are not talking here about congregations that draw a thousand people as crowds but only a hundred members are true co-workers in God’s Kingdom in word and deed. An accurate church, where each member understands and lives out his role and ministry, is a powerful weapon in God’s hand.

3. Care:

Caring for people in the NT is not the job of the pastor alone.

“but that the members should have equal care for one another” (1 Cor. 12:25)

“… from whom the whole Body promotes the growth of the Body for its own building up in love” (Eph. 4:16)

This Body is well put together and connected by the support that each member gives according to the operation of each individual part. It is in this church where there was no shortage.

Why? Because everyone shared everything they owned with others. Refraining from being part of a local body weakens the church’s ability to be truly effective in this endeavor.

It also involves the aspect of your contributions to the church. Promoting God’s work and Kingdom on a global scale costs money. Most churches experience that only 20% of the members pay their tithes. Once again, it weakens the church’s ability to give effectively, serve and help!

If everyone just decides not to be part of a local body and does their own thing, we will end up damaging our own ranks. Everyone’s involvement, even your differences with a certain church, is necessary for growth.

4. Impartation:

A special “impartation” occurs when a service is driven by the Holy Spirit. It can be obtained in no other way than to be there.

“For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord.” (Rom 1:11, NLT)

This is especially true when we experience services as Paul does in 1 Cor. 14:26 prescribes to the church: “When you come together then everyone has…” One can obtain the participation of a certain gifted preacher through DVD, but not the participation of a Body.

5. Grace Gifts:

In every home there is a certain inherent empowerment and security as well as a special gift of grace that God gives to a specific congregation that cannot be obtained without being part of the family. You can visit services, but the grace and divine ability come through being part of the specific family. We have seen so many times how certain people experience a degree of protection in the home, and when one day they leave home and cut themselves off, everything falls apart and falls apart in their lives. Being part of a dynamic congregation also gives each individual purpose. You feel you not only exist, but you are also part of a plan and the execution of that plan and vision!

6. Growth through Discipline:

The fastest growth period in my life came through correction. I received guidance. “I have been discipled”. So many believers are converted and live only on their own where they can choose the sermons and input, they want to listen to from TBN but are never led by a spiritual father or mother and are personally taught the truth. This is a great shortcoming in the church and also one of the reasons why so many Christians sit in a church for years and still do not reach maturity.

Again: God’s model is family and families. After all, that’s also how nature works. All are grouped into families and function within a specific family. We have many instructors in the Spirit but not many fathers (1 Cor. 4:15). The result is that we have a lot of head knowledge that has not yet become part of our value system and way of life. Because a dad walks with you a path, he teaches and corrects you all the time! The most important thing, however, is that a dad SHOWS you how! Mentorship and empowerment.

7. Confront Evil:

Only satan wins if people do not want to be part of a congregation. There is no such thing as a perfect church. Each congregation functions as a family involved and you feel inherently part of it or not. That is why it is important that you find a congregation where you feel involved, are comfortable and know that you will be able to make a contribution. Get a home! That is why there are so many churches, all with different focus and mandate. Hear from God where He has sent you. Where has God added you, because one does not just become part of a congregation and “join” church (Acts 2:47; 5:14; 11:24).

“Unfriendly people care only about themselves; they lash out at common sense.” (Prov. 18:1, NLT)

The church cannot confront the culture of the day without the influence and momentum of joint and focused action. It is the collective number of true believers who truly live every day like Jesus that changes a community / town / city. This is our greatest weapon, and also the reason why satan is trying so hard to bring the church into disrepute.

8. Submission Brings Authority:

Even Jesus was under authority, and so we must put ourselves under authority (Eph. 5:21). Why the encouragement to leaders to look after the people among them nicely and with dignity when no one wants to be led anymore? We must respect them (1 Thess. 5: 12-13), and honor (1 Tim. 5:17), and be obedient and submissive to them (Heb. 13:17). The zeitgeist (particular mood or spirit of our time) focuses on the self: we live to feel good and do not want to be predicted. Even Jesus was obedient to earthly parents until the age of 30. Good leaders will not rule over their people (1 Pet. 5: 3). Jesus was also an example to leaders in this.

9. Self-Denial For the Whole:

Belonging to a congregation and getting involved requires that you renounce yourself. Self-denial is not easy or comfortable, it costs you your life, your everything. We are afraid of this type of commitment. We know the price. The truth is, however, that the resurrection after death far exceeds the price and sacrifice. The joy and satisfaction of being part, being cared for, loving and caring far outweighs the sacrifice.

The dynamics of community essentially have an unwritten rule: What you put in is what you get out of it. If you give love, care, help carry burdens, focus on others, serve, help and support, you will never be short of what you have given away. Your investment is made in a perpetual bank account. And if you are in need and need to make withdrawals, you will find there are plenty. One cannot take advantage of watching a TV preacher’s services on Sunday. You have to be involved somewhere.

Growth does not happen in gathering information or inspiration, it is the execution, practice and perfection that make you grow.

The Price of Togetherness

This new movement did not have it easy:

Persecution: (Acts 8: 1; 11:19; 20:23; Rom. 8:35; 2 Cor. 12:10),
False teachings: (Phil. 3: 2; 1 Tim. 1: 15-16; 2 Tim. 2: 2),
Factions: (1 Cor. 11:19),
Apostasy: (1 Tim. 4: 1),
Competition: (Phil. 1: 16-18),
Sanctification: (1 Cor. 5).

The End of Religion

However, the church as an institution cannot say the same. Countries that were once Christian are today secular or worship other gods. In the name of religion, people were persecuted, sentenced to death, and wars of strife and discord were fought for centuries.

Which of the first churches, Ephesus, Galatia, Jerusalem, Alexandria, Constantinople, Antioch, Rome, are still today Jesus Christ-centered, missionary, spirit-filled communities? As the movement became institutionalized, it became human-driven and human-centered. Not to mention Tertullian’s work in North Africa, Philip of Serene in Carthage, which today is completely replaced by Islam.

As already mentioned: “For the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the children of God” (Rom. 8:19).

“For [even the whole] creation (all nature) waits expectantly and longs earnestly for God’s sons to be made known [waits for the revealing, the disclosing of their sonship].” (Amp.)

There is a hungry world out there, longing for truth, guidance and solutions.

It is given to us as the church / body of Jesus Christ to show Jesus to them through our words, lives and example. It’s even more than that: it’s our duty and responsibility, because Jesus has already done and given everything to make it possible!

[1] Dreyer, W., 2011. Praktiese ekklesiologie en bedieningspraktyk met verwysing na die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika))

[2] Stark, R., 2007, Discovering God: The origins of great religions and the evolution of belief, Harper Collins, New York. Bl 161-162 Barna, G., 2005, The state of the church, The Barna Group, Ventura, CA. Bl 246-250 Hirsch, A., 2006, The forgotten ways: Reactivating the missional church, Brazos, Grand Rapids, MI. Bl 18-22

[3] Swenson, Donald. Society, Spirituality, and the Sacred: A Social Scientific Introduction. Peterborough, Ont.; New York, ny: Broadview Press, 1999 Sacred , 188 – 190))

https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/william-tyndale-a-life-transformed-by-gods-word?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[4] Everett Ferguson the church of Christ a biblical ecclesiology for today Bl 129 – 134.