Why Does the Bible Call the Church the Body of Christ?
The New Testament describes the church in several different ways. One of the most common is the body of Christ.
Why?
Because that picture helps us understand both our relationship to Christ and our relationship to one another.
Paul writes,
"He is the head of the body, the church." (Colossians 1:18)
Just as a human body has one head directing every part, the church has one Head—Jesus Christ. No preacher, elder, council, or religious organization occupies that place. Christ alone is the Head of His church.
Paul also reminds us that every Christian is part of that body.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually." (1 Corinthians 12:27)
A body is made up of many members, each with a different function. Not every Christian has the same abilities or responsibilities, yet every member is important. Just as the eye, hand, and foot each have a purpose, every believer has a place in serving Christ.
This picture also teaches unity.
Paul writes,
"There is one body..." (Ephesians 4:4)
The church is not many bodies belonging to Christ.
It is one body under one Head.
That unity is not created by human organizations. It is created by Christ Himself.
The body also teaches dependence.
A hand cannot live apart from the body.
Neither can Christians flourish apart from Christ.
Everything we have—life, forgiveness, hope, and purpose—comes from our relationship with Him.
Finally, the body teaches cooperation.
Every member contributes to the health of the whole. Paul says that when each part does its work, the body grows and builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4:16).
The New Testament never pictures the church as an audience watching a few people perform.
It pictures a living body, with every member serving, encouraging, and strengthening the others.
That is why the image of the body is so powerful.
It reminds us that Christ is the Head.
We belong to Him.
And we belong to one another.
Continue Your Study
Why Does the Bible Call the Church the Family of God?
The New Testament also describes Christians as brothers and sisters in God's household.
What does that picture teach us about our relationship with God and with one another?
Related Bible Studies
What Is the Church?
When Did the Church Begin?
What Is Worship?
Companion Video
Why Does the Bible Call the Church the Body of Christ?
Read First. Conclude Later.