What is the church's purpose?

Definition and Foundation

The term “church” in Scripture generally translates the Greek word ἐκκλησία (ekklēsía), meaning “called-out assembly” or “congregation.” In the New Testament, it refers both to the universal body of believers in Messiah and to local gatherings of believers that meet together. According to the Berean Standard Bible, the church is founded upon the confession of faith in Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16–18). As a result, its purpose is deeply rooted in God’s plan of redemption and ongoing work in the world.

Spiritual Worship and Glorification of God

The church’s primary function is to glorify God through worship and a life of obedience. The apostle Peter describes believers in this way:

“‘But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.’” (1 Peter 2:9)

This “proclaiming of virtues” (or praises) includes singing, prayers, and thanksgiving (cf. Ephesians 5:19–20). Archaeological discoveries in and around early Christian meeting areas, such as house churches in Rome and in the city of Dura-Europos in Syria, confirm that believers from the earliest period regularly assembled for worship and the reading of Scripture.

Building Fellowship and Unity

Christ’s followers are united into one spiritual family, often described as the “body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:12–14). This unity is based on a shared faith, which fosters mutual edification, support, and accountability. Acts 2:42 records:

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

The early believers not only worshiped God together; they also shared meals, prayed for one another, and supported each other materially. Archaeological and historical evidence points to the expansion of these communal practices, as in the records of generous support for widows, orphans, and traveling missionaries documented in second-century writings (e.g., the letters of Ignatius).

Edification Through Teaching and Discipleship

The church’s purpose includes instructing believers in the truths of Scripture, shaping character and worldview. Ephesians 4:11–13 states:

“It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ.”

From the earliest manuscripts—such as fragments preserved in the John Rylands Library (P52) and the Bodmer Papyri—scholars conclude that accurate teaching was central to sustaining a consistent faith. Such manuscript evidence also supports the authenticity of key doctrinal passages, indicating that from the outset, the church placed a high priority on reliable instruction.

Evangelism and the Great Commission

Jesus entrusted His followers with the task of spreading the good news of salvation. In Matthew 28:19–20, He commands:

“‘Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them … teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’”

Historical records—from ancient Roman documents referencing the rapid spread of Christianity, to accounts of miraculous occurrences in mission fields—demonstrate that believers took this commission seriously. The transformative message led to communities of faith being established throughout the Roman Empire and beyond.

Service and Compassion

The church is called to mirror Christ’s compassion, meeting both spiritual and physical needs. Galatians 6:10 urges:

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.”

Service includes caring for the poor, supporting widows and orphans, healing the hurting, and practicing hospitality. Anecdotal reports throughout history document miraculous healings and profound transformations within believing communities. Archaeological excavations in places such as first-century Jerusalem and Galilee support the biblical portrayal of communities that developed systematic methods to care for the less fortunate, reflecting the heart of the Savior.

Lifelong Transformation and Sanctification

The growth and holiness of each believer is interconnected with the community of faith. The apostle Paul encourages believers to pursue purity and become more like Christ (Romans 12:2). This transformative process, often called sanctification, is facilitated by corporate worship, communal prayer, and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24–25). From a behavioral perspective, the communal and accountable context of a congregation provides unique support that fosters spiritual, emotional, and moral growth.

Proclamation of God’s Kingdom

Scripture depicts the church as salt and light to the earth (Matthew 5:13–16). Believers are to exemplify God’s ways in every aspect of life, declaring that the kingdom of God is present and active. Historical corroborations—such as Tertullian’s observations of early Christians’ moral and ethical lifestyle—affirm that local congregations publicly showcased a distinct manner of living. This witness continues to be a testimony to the power and reality of God’s kingdom.

Preservation and Transmission of Scripture

In each generation, the church guards and spreads God’s word. As 1 Timothy 3:15 calls the church “the pillar and foundation of the truth,” it has undertaken meticulous efforts—evidenced by the vast manuscript tradition—to preserve the integrity of Scripture. The consistency observed across the thousands of Greek manuscripts, Latin translations, and ancient versions (including the early Syriac and Coptic) displays an extraordinary measure of textual fidelity. Documents such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, though pre-dating the formal inception of the church, also confirm significant continuity in transmitted texts from the Hebrew Bible.

Declaration of God’s Intelligent Design

From Scripture’s earliest chapters to modern discussions, the church upholds that God intricately crafted the universe. While explaining the wonders of creation, the church proclaims a Designer who both formed and sustains every aspect of existence (cf. Colossians 1:16–17). The biblical timeline, as discussed by various interpreters, highlights God’s orchestration of history for His redemptive purpose, shaping the worldview that believers are not random accidents of nature but creations made in God’s image.

Advancement of God’s Redemptive Plan

Throughout Scripture, believers cooperate in God’s plan for redemption, culminating in Christ’s resurrection, which secured salvation (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). By partaking in the sacraments—such as baptism and the Lord’s Supper—the church memorializes and proclaims Christ’s redemptive sacrifice. Historical acknowledgments, including records of the earliest celebrations of the Eucharist in the Didache, confirm that reverent remembrance of His atoning work remains central to church life.

Equipping Believers for Eternity

Finally, the church prepares believers for an eternal perspective, reminding them that life extends beyond the confines of the present world. Teachings on righteousness, judgment, and hope in the resurrection serve to shape a life that seeks to honor God and remain steadfast in faith (Hebrews 12:1–2). As the church nurtures spiritual maturity, it fosters a forward-looking anticipation of Christ’s return and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom promises (Revelation 21:1–4).

Conclusion

In sum, the church exists to glorify God, disciple believers, proclaim the message of salvation, demonstrate compassion, and uphold the truth of Scripture. Historical, archaeological, and manuscript findings reinforce that the earliest believers actively embraced these purposes, laying the foundation for the church’s ongoing mission. Grounded in the consistent testimony of Scripture, the church continues to stand as a radiant beacon of faith and hope to the world, pointing all people to a loving Creator and the resurrected Redeemer.