What does it mean to be a Christian Church?
- Josh Reading
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
What is a Christian Church?
The true meaning of what a Christian Church is has been a constant and important question across time and traditions. This has persisted through numerous centuries while crossing various traditions and languages across different cultures. The Church exists beyond physical structures and weekly gatherings as well as beyond any single faith group.
The Church represents the entire worldwide community of individuals committed to Jesus Christ throughout history and into the future.
Roman Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Protestantism all demonstrate that the Church stands as something beyond a mere organisation. The Church exists as a living community called forth by God—shaped by the Gospel and sent into the world to demonstrate love, serve others, and reflect Jesus Christ’s character.
What fundamental elements bring together this diverse group of believers into one Christian Church body?
God Has created a Community Which Constitutes the Church
Above all, the Church consists of people rather than a physical structure. In the New Testament, the term church originates from ekklesia, which translates to “called out ones” and describes those gathered by God to maintain a relationship with Him and each other.
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."— 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
God’s grace—not human merit—establishes this calling. The community of the Church consists of fallible individuals who strive to follow Jesus' path together.
The Church Confesses Jesus Christ as Lord
The Christian Church centres itself on the belief that Jesus Christ holds lordship. This core belief unifies believers across traditions and cultures, forming the foundation of our faith.
"If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."— Romans 10:9 (NIV)
This confession is more than just words—it’s a commitment to live under the lordship of Jesus.
The Church Is the Body of Christ
The Bible describes the Church as the Body of Christ. This imagery reflects both diversity and unity. Although each person possesses distinct abilities and ways of expression, we remain united through the Spirit.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."— 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV)
No one is on the side-lines. Each person in the Church has a place, a purpose, and something meaningful to contribute.
The Church Worships, Grows, and Serves
Throughout history, the Church has gathered in worship, grown in discipleship, and served the world.
Worship
Worship is our response to who God is.
"Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs."— Psalm 100:2 (NIV)
Discipleship
Discipleship is about growth, learning, and spiritual maturity.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."— Matthew 28:19–20 (NIV)
Service
Service demonstrates God’s love through action.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."— 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
The Church Is Both Local and Global
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Christian Church is its presence in both local communities and the global family of faith. The Church exists wherever people meet in Jesus’ name—whether it be a cathedral in Rome or a house church in Cairo.
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."— Matthew 18:20 (NIV)
Our connection to Christ places us in a worldwide body that transcends language, culture, and location.
The Church Is Sent Into the World
The Church does not exist for itself—it is called and sent into the world to proclaim and demonstrate the Gospel.
"As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world."— John 17:18 (NIV)
The Church is not merely a gathering place but a scattered presence of Christ’s love and truth across every sphere of life.
A Living Expression of Christ on Earth
When functioning as God intended, the Church becomes a living, breathing expression of Jesus on earth. Though it is imperfect and full of human limitation, the Church is empowered by the Spirit and founded on the Gospel.
We are not defined by perfect understanding, we are shaped by the grace of God, held together by our confession of Christ, and empowered to live for His glory.
Begin Your Journey with Jesus at Divergent Church
Whether you’ve been part of a church your whole life or are just beginning to explore what it means to follow Jesus, Divergent Church welcomes you into community.
Our Church expresses itself through city-wide Sunday Gatherings and Life Communities meeting across homes, cafés, and public spaces in Canberra. Queanbeyan, Port Macquarie and beyond.
We are people who take Jesus seriously—but ourselves not too seriously.
We invite real questions, value authentic relationships, and pursue a faith that changes not just Sundays, but every day.
Come as you are. Begin your journey. Discover the beauty of the Christian Church.
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