Ecclesiology: The Study Of The Church PDF

**Ecclesiology** - Ecclesiology is the theological study of the Christian Church. It involves exploring the nature, structure, purpose, and mission of the Church as it is understood in Christian doctrine. - Karl Barth notes that one of the several ways in which the church witnesses...

**Ecclesiology** - Ecclesiology is the theological study of the Christian Church. It involves exploring the nature, structure, purpose, and mission of the Church as it is understood in Christian doctrine. - Karl Barth notes that one of the several ways in which the church witnesses to Christ is by its existence. Barth emphasized the sovereignty of God, the importance of the Word of God, and the significance of Christology in Christian theology. - There is a lack of understanding of the basic nature of this entity called the church. The word church can be used to refer to a denomination, the physical structure, or a body of believers. This causes confusion. - In 1948 it was claimed that the doctrine of the church had received very little attention. The ecumenical movement has thrusted the church into the fore. - Traditionally the church was seen as distinct from the world and the church us supposed to transform the world. The church was seen as the repository of Grace. The church possesses the gospel and salvation. - The church is no longer since by many as God's special agent in the world; there is the belief that God relates to the world in other dynamical ways and God works through other entities and institutions. Emphasis is on what God is doing and not what God is like. - The church is now viewed as dynamic. Seeking to define the church in terms of dynamics activity causes problems. - John McCory historical figure. - The earliest periods of the church was normative coming out of the new testament into the medieval. Church should be a place where people voluntarily come. The church is far more than a social institution and must be defined beyond social understanding. - The word church seldom occurs in the context of the new testament. 1 Peter deals with the nature and significance of the old testament community. The meaning of the new testament context of church as to be seen in terms of two background; that of classical Geek and new testament. In classical Greek the word ecclesia reference to an assembly of persons and citizens of a particular city. (Acts 19 32 39 41) **Ecclesia, Gahal and Edah** - In Christian theology, **\"ecclesia\"** is a Greek word that is commonly translated as \"church\" in English. The term is used to refer to a community or assembly of believers, typically in a religious context. But traditionally it means assembly of citizens of a city. Full citizens could vote on certain matters. - Context: These verses refer to a secular assembly (translated as \"assembly\" instead of \"church\"). - Acts 19:32: \"The assembly (ekklesia) was in confusion\...\" - Acts 19:39: \"If there is anything further you want to bring up, it must be settled in a legal assembly (ekklesia).\" - Acts 19:41: \"After he had said this, he dismissed the assembly (ekklesia).\" - In this context, ekklesia refers to a civic gathering in Ephesus during the riot sparked by the silversmiths. - Only in three instances within classical Geek in the bible the word ecclesia referred to a religious fellowship(not to gathering itself but to the business transaction), Cultic gathering. - In Hebrew, **\"Gahal\" (גח\"ל)** doesn't mean \"assembly,\" but political groups or coalitions are sometimes referred to as gatherings or assemblies. **Gahal** is a general assembly or gathering of troops. - Edah -- Exodus chapter 12 -- community of persons cantered around the Law or the cult. - In Jewish tradition, the term \"Edah\" (עֵדָה) typically refers to a community or congregation of Jewish individuals who come together for religious, social, or communal purposes. The concept of Edah is rooted in the Hebrew Bible and has significance in various contexts within Judaism. - Here are a few contexts in which the term \"Edah\" is used: - Biblical Context: In the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the Torah, \"Edah\" is used to refer to the congregation of Israel or a group of people assembled for a specific purpose, such as worship or receiving divine instruction. - Historical Context: In Jewish history, an Edah could refer to a specific group or assembly within the Jewish community, often organized around shared beliefs, practices, or affiliations. - Modern Usage: In contemporary Jewish communities, the term \"Edah\" may be used to describe a congregation or community of worshippers affiliated with a particular synagogue or sect within Judaism. **Ecclesia is the root word of what we now call the church** - Paul uses the term the most, addressing a group of believers in a specific city. - A gathering of believes in a particular place. Ecclesia is a secular word. - There are references to churches meeting in peoples homes. - Act 9:31 so the church throughout all Judia - 1 Corinthians - Each gathering is the church. - Each community however small represents the whole of the church. The church does not have individual components 1 Cor. 1:2 - The church has a certain inclusiveness. The church is the whole body of those who through the death of Christ has been saved reconciled and united through the body of Christ. (dead or alive) **Pauline Trinitarian concept of the church** - Arthur wainwright -- indicated that Paul writings reflects the trinitarianism in the church; implicit in the description of the church, people of God, body of Christ, Temple of the spirit. Arthur Wainwright was a notable British theologian and biblical scholar known for his significant contributions to the field of New Testament studies. **People of God** - People of God: Church belongs to God and God belongs to them. - God takes pride in them, He takes care of them God keeps them as the apple of his eye. - He expects them to be his people without any dividing loyalty. All the people of God are marked. Circumcision was a part of that sign. - God expected his people to be pure and sanctified. - The term \"People of God\" is a concept found in various religious traditions, but it is particularly significant in Christianity and Judaism. It refers to the community of believers or followers who are considered to be chosen, called, or set apart by God for a special purpose. Here are some key points about the \"People of God\" within the context of Christianity: 1. Biblical Basis: In the Christian faith, the concept of the People of God is rooted in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament where the Israelites are frequently referred to as the chosen people of God. In the New Testament, the term is expanded to include all believers in Jesus Christ. 2. Unity in Diversity: The People of God in Christianity is seen as a diverse community of individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and nations who are united in their faith in Jesus Christ. 3. Common Identity: Believers are considered part of the People of God through their faith in Jesus Christ, sharing a common identity as children of God and members of the body of Christ. **The body of Christ** - The church as the body of Christ is seen as the locus of Christ activity. It emphasises the connection of the church as a group of believers in Christ. - Christ in the believer is the basis of belief and hope. - Christ is the head of the church 1. Christ as the Head: In this analogy, Christ is often referred to as the head of the Body, signifying His authority and leadership over the Church. Believers, as members of the Body, are called to follow Christ\'s teachings and example. 2. Mission and Service: The Body of Christ is called to carry out the mission of Christ on earth, which includes sharing the Gospel, serving others, and demonstrating God\'s love to the world. Each member plays a vital role in fulfilling this mission. 3. Mutual Interdependence: The Body of Christ highlights the idea that believers are interconnected and dependent on one another. Each member contributes to the well-being and growth of the entire body, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual support. 4. Spiritual Growth: Believers within the Body of Christ are encouraged to support one another, build each other up in faith, and help one another grow spiritually. This communal aspect is essential for the maturation and edification of individual believers. **Temple of the spirit** The church is the creation of the spirit The spirit continues to populate the church Overall, the idea of believers being the \"Temple of the Spirit\" highlights the intimate relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the sacredness of each believer as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit and the call to live in a manner that honours God in all things. Under the impulse of the Spirit the church grows. Peter preaching at Pentecost. 1. Symbol of God\'s Presence: The metaphor of believers being the \"Temple of the Spirit\" symbolizes the presence of God within each individual believer. It signifies that each person is a sacred dwelling place where God\'s Spirit resides. 2. Holiness and Sanctification: The concept of believers as the \"Temple of the Spirit\" underscores the call to live lives that are holy and set apart for God. Believers are encouraged to honour God in all aspects of their lives, recognizing the sacredness of their bodies and their role as vessels of the Holy Spirit. **Marks of the Church** The \"marks of the Church\" are characteristics or qualities traditionally attributed to the Christian Church, often based on interpretations of the New Testament. These marks are believed to reflect essential features that identify and define the true Church of Christ. The most commonly recognized marks of the Church are unity, holiness, catholicity, and apostolicity. 1. One (Unity): The unity of the Church signifies that all believers are united in Christ. This unity is not just a visible unity but also a spiritual unity among all true believers. It reflects Jesus\' prayer for unity among his followers in John 17:20-23. 2. Holy (Holiness): The holiness of the Church refers to the idea that it is set apart for God\'s purposes and is called to reflect the holiness of God. Believers are called to live in a way that is pleasing to God and reflects His character. 3. Catholic (Universality): The catholicity of the Church emphasizes its universal nature and mission. The Church is not limited by geographical, cultural, or societal boundaries but is meant to reach all people with the message of the Gospel. 4. Apostolic (Apostolicity): The apostolicity of the Church stresses its connection to the teachings and mission of the apostles. This includes maintaining the teachings of the apostles as handed down through Scripture and tradition and being sent out on a mission to continue the work of the apostles.