The Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Church

The Meaning of the Church

The word church is used quite loosely at times, some even applying it to the edifice where believers may meet for worship. Such a structure may be a church building or something that serves for the purpose of assembly, but it certainly could not be the “church.” The church is composed of individuals who are “called out” from the world. They heed the call to come out, and then find a home in what the Scriptures designate the “church.” The church, then, is made up of living persons banded together in Christian fellowship. It is composed of those who espouse the cause of Christ, who believe in the teachings of Jesus, and who pledge themselves to propagate “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” BSPC 142.2

The Greek word for church is ekklesia, and really means “assembly.” The word is so rendered in Acts 19:32, 39, 41. This word is used also in the Septuagint Version of the Old Testament and is rendered “assembly” in Deuteronomy 18:16 and 2 Chronicles 30:23; and “congregation” in Psalm 22:22 and 107:32. BSPC 142.3

The word “church” is a term used to characterize God’s people, not only in New Testament days, but also in the days of Moses and David. Luke in his story in the book of Acts calls attention to “the church in the wilderness” at the time the Angel of the covenant was leading the children of the Most High. (Acts 7:38.) It is referred to in the songs of Israel, where we read, “God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints.” Psalm 89:7. The word “assembly” in this text is from the Greek word ekklesia, which in the New Testament is generally rendered “church.” BSPC 142.4