The Church — Its Nature, Its Marks, and Its Purpose

Bible Study Handout: The Church — Its Nature, Its Marks, and Its Purpose Theme Verse: “…on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — Matthew 16:18 (ESV)

I. The Nature of the Church
A. Definition The church is “the community of all true believers for all time.” It includes all who are united to Christ through faith, both living and dead. The church is both: Universal – all believers everywhere. Local – individual congregations in specific places.
B. Two Sides of the Church The Invisible Church Known only to God. Made up of all genuine believers. (2 Timothy 2:19; 1 Samuel 16:7) The Visible Church The outward, organized community of those who profess faith. Includes both true and false believers. (Matthew 13:24–30; 1 John 2:19)
C. Biblical Images of the Church Family of God – We are adopted into God’s household (Ephesians 2:19). Body of Christ – Each believer is a member with a unique function (1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Bride of Christ – Loved, purified, and united to Christ (Ephesians 5:25–27). Temple of the Holy Spirit – God’s presence dwells within us (Ephesians 2:21–22). D. The Church and IsraelThe church does not replace Israel but continues God’s redemptive plan. Believers (Jew and Gentile) share equally in the promises through Christ. (Romans 11:17–24; Galatians 3:28–29)

II. The Marks of the True Church
A. Definition The “marks” are the visible characteristics that identify a true church of Jesus Christ.
B. Three Historic Marks Right Preaching of the Word of God – (2 Timothy 4:2; Acts 2:42) Right Administration of the Ordinances – (Matthew 28:19–20; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26) Right Practice of Discipline and Godly Living – (Matthew 18:15–17; 1 Corinthians 5:1–13)

III. The Purposes of the Church
A. Ministry to God – Worship Ephesians 1:6; John 4:23–24
B. Ministry to Believers – Nurture Ephesians 4:11–16; Acts 2:42–47 C. Ministry to the World – Evangelism and Mercy Matthew 28:18–20; Matthew 5:13–16; Galatians 6:10

IV. The Authority and Power of the ChurchChrist is the Head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22–23). The Bible is the ultimate authority in doctrine and practice. Church discipline preserves holiness and unity (Matthew 18:15–17).

V. The Unity and Diversity of the Church Unity – One Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:4–6). Diversity Many members, many gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4–7). True unity is built on love, not uniformity.

VI. Reflection and Discussion
Questions
What does it mean for you personally to be part of Christ’s “body”? How can your church strengthen its witness in the community? Which of the three marks do you think your church demonstrates most strongly? Least? How can you help your church fulfill its three main purposes? Why is worship the foundation for everything the church does? Closing Thought “The church is God’s chosen instrument to display His glory in the world. When we live as His people — in truth, love, and unity — the world sees Christ.”