Course Overview
The word church is familiar to almost everyone, yet it is often misunderstood. Some people think of a building. Others think of a denomination or a religious organization. The New Testament, however, uses the word in a much richer way.
Jesus said,
"I will build My church." (Matthew 16:18)
What did He mean?
What is the church?
When did it begin?
What is its purpose?
And why does it matter?
In this course we'll allow the New Testament to answer those questions. We'll examine the different descriptions God gives His people—the body of Christ, the family of God, the kingdom of God, the temple of the Holy Spirit, and the bride of Christ—and discover how each helps us understand the church more fully.
We'll also examine the church's mission, its organization, its work, and the relationship between the local congregation and the universal church.
As always, we'll begin with the biblical text rather than later traditions or denominational practices. Our purpose is not to defend a religious system but to understand what Christ intended when He said,
"I will build My church."
Questions, comments, or disagreements?
We welcome them. Use the response form on our HOME page to send us a note.
Bible Studies
Bible Study 1
What Is the Church?
Bible Study 2
When Did the Church Begin?
Bible Study 3
The Church Is the Body of Christ
Bible Study 4
The Church Is the Family of God
Bible Study 5
The Church Is the Kingdom of God
Bible Study 6
The Church Is the Temple of the Holy Spirit
Bible Study 7
The Church Is the Bride of Christ
Bible Study 8
The Mission of the Church
Bible Study 9
The Organization of the Church
Bible Study 10
Putting It All Together