Part 1 of 12 / The Biblical Church Of Jesus Christ According To Scripture
- Chris Houser
- Jan 5
- 9 min read
The Objective
To understand the Biblical Foundation of the Church from Scripture, we must recognize how human tradition and deviation can lead believers astray, and learn how to restore a Christ-centered, Scripturally Faithful Church.
Introduction: Understanding The True Church Of Jesus Christ
The Church of christ is far more than a building, denomination, or organization. It is the living, spiritual body of Christ, called into existence by Him, sustained by His Spirit, and guided by His Word. While countless organizations have claimed the title of "Church" over the centuries, Scripture reveals the defining characteristics of the true Church. It is Christ-centered, Word-Driven, Spirit-Led, and Mission-Focused. Anything less is a deviation from God's design. Understanding the Biblical Foundation is essential for discerning truth from error, navigating centuries of theological drift, and restoring a faithful, obedient, Christ-centered Faith.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:4-6, that there is "one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; and one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." The unity of the Church is rooted not in human institutions or traditions, but in its allegiance to Christ and adherence to His teaching. The Church is spiritual, universal, and eternal, transcending denominational lines and historical changes.
The Foundation Of The Church In Scripture
Jesus said in Matthew 16:18, "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it."
It is crucial to understand that the "rock" (petra in Greek) refers to the faith and person of Christ himself, not solely Peter. This statement underscores that the Church is built on the person and work of Christ, His atoning death, resurrection, and ongoing intercession, not on any h uman leader or institution. Therefore, the Church's authority, mission, and identity are derived directly from Christ, and any attempt to elevate human tradition or hieracrchy above Him is a departure from the truth.
The early Church demonstrated this Christ-centered foundation through practical devotion. Acts 2:42-47 provides a vivid picture of the early Church in Acts. It says, "They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. And all the believers were together and had all things in common; and they would sell their property and possessions and share them with all, to the extent that anyone had need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved."
This passage shows the Church as a Spiritually Vibrant, Relationally Connected, and Mission-Oriented. The believers' devotion was multifaceted in 5 key areas shown below.
Teaching
They were committed to the Apostles' instruction, which was rooted in Christ's teachings and the Hebrew Scriptures. this emphasizes that a Biblical Church must be grounded in God's Word.
Fellowship
The early Christians shared their lives, resources, and burdens, reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways.
Sacraments
"Breaking of Bread" refers to the Lord's Supper, a Christ-centered practice that commemorates His death and resurrection.
Prayer
The community was prayerful, acknowledging dependence on God for guidance, protection, and spiritual growth.
Evangelism
Their lifestyle drew others to Christ, demonstrating that the truth Christ is outward-looking as well as inwardly devoted.
Contrast this with modern deviations today, where ritual can overshadow relationship, hierarchy can obscure Christ's headship, and social programs or influence can replace discipleship. Romans 16:17-18 warns against these kind of practices from the Apostle Paul.
Romans 16:17-18, "Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such people are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting."
The warning that the Apostle Paul gives is timeless because when human preferences or traditions eclipse more important than Scripture, the Church then deviates from its Christ-centered purpose into a man-designed purpose.
The Church As The Body Of Christ
Paul's metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 presents the Church as a living, interconnected body, with Christ as the head. each believer is a member with a unique role, gifted by the Spirit for teh building up of the Church. Paul then emphasizes that no one member can claim superiority; all function together for God's glory.
1 Corinthians 12:12-27, "For just as the body is one and yet has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. For the body is not one part, but many. If the foot says, “Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body,” it is not for this reason any less a part of the body. And if the ear says, “Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body,” it is not for this reason any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? But now God has arranged the parts, each one of them in the body, just as He desired. If they were all one part, where would the body be? But now there are many parts, but one body And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; or again, the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, it is much truer that the parts of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary; and those parts of the body which we consider less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor, and our less presentable parts become much more presentable, whereas our more presentable parts have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that part which lacked, so that there may be no division in the body, but that the parts may have the same care for one another. And if one part of the body suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if a part is honored, all the parts rejoice with it. Now you are Christ’s body, and individually parts of it."
Today, some church structures distort this principle, elevating clergy, institutional hierarchy, or denominational authority above the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9). A Biblical Church recognizes that every believer has a responsibility and authority in Christ, contributing to the health and witness of the body.
1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen people , a royal priesthood , a holy nation , a people for God’s own possession , so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people , but now you are the people of G od ; you had not received mercy , but now you have received mercy."
Christ's supremacy is non-negotiable. The Church exists to glorify Him, not human leaders, traditions, brands, influencers, or personally driven agendas. Colossians 1:18 reinforces this as below:
Colossians 1:18, "He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything."
Historical Context: Early Church Versus Later Deviations
The earliest Christians met in homes, endured persecution, and lived simply. Their faith was tested and purified under trial, and their witness was rooted entirely in obedience to Christ. However, after Constantine legalized Christianity in the 4th Century, the Church's relationship with political power led to gradual distortions. Ritual and hierarchy replaced relationship discipleship, doctrinal compromises emerged, and some practices elevated human autthority above Scripture.
Examples:
Sacramental Overemphasis
Baptism, communion, or other rites become viewed as meritorious acts rather than expressions of faith.
Hierarchy Over Scripture
Papal and Clerical authority sometimes overshadowed the priesthood of all believers including in modern churches today.
Non-Biblical Doctrines
Practices such as veneration of saints or indulgences diverted attention from Christ's unique mediatory role.
Scripture repeatedly warns against such distortions. We see this in Galatians 1:6-9 which cautions, "I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel, which is not just another account; but there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!" This is a stern warning and reminder to us that any addition, subtraction, or distortion of the Gospel, even under the guise of tradition, culture, or authority, is a serious departure from the truth. The Church is called to remain faithful to Christ's teachings, not to human innovations or cultural pressures.
Returning To A Christ-Centered Church
Restoring the Church to its Biblical Foundation requires intentional effort at both the personal and corporate level. Believers must recommit to Scripture as the ultimate authority, allowing the Word of God to shape Faith, Doctrine, and Practice. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans because they "Now these people were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so." Similarly, Christians today must measure all teachings and traditions against Scripture.
Prayer and Worship must be Christ-centered, not ritual-centered, or not feel-based worship. While sacraments, music, and liturgy have their place, they are meaningful only when they point to Christ and cultivate obedience, reverence, and spiritual growth. Fellowship and accountability are also essential; believers must encourage one another, hold each other accountable, and maintain the love and unity that characterize Christ's body. Finally, discernment is critical: recognizing deviations, correcting errors, and boldly, yet lovingly, standing for the truth of Christ are central to a Faithful Church.
Why Christ Must Remain The Center
Christ is not merely a figure within the Church, HE IS THE Head, Foundation, and Purpose of all its activity. John 15:5 emphasizes this truth in stating, "I am the vine, you are the branches; the one who remains in Me, and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing." Without Christ as the center, all programs, rituals, and ministries may continue with an outwardly appearance of Godliness, but inwardly lack eternal impact and are at risk of being dead within themselves. A Christ-centered Church produces disciples who grow in faith, serve others, proclaim the Gospel, and glorify God in all things. Every decision, teaching, and activity must reflect this reality.
Application & Reflection
During this week, I want you to take time to reflect on your personal engagement with the Church. Ask yourself: Is my faith shaped by Scripture or by tradition? Are my spiritual practices Christ-centered, or have they become routine or ritualistic? Make a list of areas where Christ's presence and authority can be re-centered in your life and in your church involvement. Commit to daily Scriptural study, intentional prayer, and fellowship with believers who uphold Biblical truth.
Journaling Prompts
In what ways have church traditions influenced my understanding of God's Word?
How can I ensure that Christ remains the center of my personal and coporate worship?
What practical steps can I take this week to encourage Christ-centered practices in my church community?
Discussion Questions
What are the defining characteristics of the true Church according to Scripture?
How does Mathew 16:18 clarify the foundation of the Church?
In what ways have human traditions or hierarchial structures led the Church away from Christ-centered truth?
How can believers today restore Christ as the central focus of their churches?
What personal actions can you take to remain rooted in Scripture and accountable in fellowship?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for building Your Church on the solid foundation of Christ. Forgive us for allowing traditions, human authority, or empty rituals to replace Your Word. Restore in us to a Christ-centered Faith, guide us by Your Spirit, and help us to walk in obedience and truth. Teach us to discern error, to live faithfully as members of Your body, and to bear fruit that glorifies You and not ourselves. Strengthen us to stand for Your Truth in our churches and commnities, and empower us to reflect Your love and holiness in all we do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Week 2 Preview | Next Monday: January 12, 2026
Next week, we will study the Apostolic Church and examine how the earliest believers lived, worshipped, and evangelized in obedience to Christ. We will explore the practical model set by the first Christians and how their example provides guidance for modern believers seeking to uphold the truth of God's Word.
