When discussing the origins of Christianity, one might wonder which church Jesus established. The question of what church aligns with Jesus’ intentions and teachings has been a subject of debate for centuries.
Some argue that Jesus established a specific church governed by bishops and archbishops. Others believe that Jesus provided a different means to find the true church, one that goes beyond specific denominational boundaries.
Exploring the history and biblical references can shed light on this intriguing topic and help us better understand the different perspectives surrounding the church Jesus built.
Key Takeaways:
- The question of what church Jesus built has been a topic of debate.
- Some believe Jesus established a church governed by bishops and archbishops.
- Others believe that finding the true church goes beyond specific denominational boundaries.
- Exploring history and biblical references can provide insight into this topic.
- The quest for the true church requires a deeper understanding of Jesus’ intentions and teachings.
The Meaning of “Church”
When discussing the biblical definition of “church,” it is important to understand that the term holds a different meaning from its modern-day interpretation. In the Greek language, the word used is “ekklesia,” which directly translates to “assembly” or “gathering.”
The original meaning of “ekklesia” emphasizes the collective nature of the word, referring to any group of people gathered together for a particular purpose. This purpose can range from religious gatherings to secular meetings.
Unlike the specific organizational structure often associated with the term “church” today, the biblical definition is not limited to a particular religious institution or hierarchical system. Instead, it encompasses any assembly of people joined together by a common bond or shared goal.
“Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves together…” – Hebrews 10:25
This biblical understanding of “church” reminds us that the concept extends beyond the physical walls of a building or a specific religious denomination. Rather, it encompasses the idea of a community coming together, united by their faith or common purpose.
| Modern-day Understanding | Biblical Definition |
|---|---|
| Specific religious organizations | Any group of people gathered together |
| Hierarchical structures | Collective assembly |
| Exclusive membership | Inclusive community |
By recognizing the biblical definition of “church” as an assembly or gathering, we broaden our perspective on what it means to be a part of a community of believers. It encourages us to focus not only on the organizational structure but also on the shared values, faith, and purpose that bind us together.
The Apostolic Church
One key aspect often associated with the true church is apostolic succession, where church leaders can trace their authority directly back to the apostles. This concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining a lineage of successors who continue the teachings and traditions of the apostles.
However, the claim of apostolic succession is not unique to a single denomination. Multiple churches, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and others, assert their connection to the apostles through this lineage. This raises questions about which church truly represents the apostolic faith and has valid successors of the apostles.
To better understand the complexity of this issue, let’s explore a few examples of denominations that claim apostolic succession:
| Denomination | Claim to Apostolic Succession |
|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | The Roman Catholic Church traces its authority back to the apostle Peter, whom Jesus named the “rock” upon which He would build His church (Matthew 16:18-19). |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | The Eastern Orthodox Church also asserts apostolic succession, with its bishops claiming direct lineage from the original apostolic community. |
| Anglican Church | The Anglican Church claims a historical connection to the apostles through the Church of England and recognizes its bishops as successors to the apostles. |
These examples illustrate the wide range of denominations that lay claim to apostolic succession. Each denomination presents its own historical, theological, and ecclesiastical arguments supporting their authority and connection to the apostles.
Despite these various claims, the debate over apostolic succession remains ongoing. Different perspectives, interpretations, and historical narratives contribute to the diversity of beliefs surrounding this issue.
It is important for individuals seeking the true church to consider all perspectives and carefully examine the historical evidence, theological arguments, and adherence to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
Quote:
“The apostles became the first leaders of the early church and passed down their authority through succession.” – John Smith, The Apostolic Church in History
Scripture and Tradition
Catholic theologians argue that the Word of God consists of both Scripture and Tradition, with apostolic succession being an integral part of this oral teaching. They believe that the church’s tradition serves as sufficient evidence for the validity of apostolic succession, even in the absence of clear biblical support.
According to Catholic doctrine, the Bible alone does not contain all the teachings and practices passed down by Jesus and the apostles. Instead, Tradition, which encompasses oral teachings and practices, is seen as a complementary source of divine revelation alongside Scripture.
“Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture make up a single sacred deposit of the Word of God… [the Church] does not derive her certainty about all revealed truths from the holy Scriptures alone. Both Scripture and Tradition must be accepted and honored with equal sentiments of devotion and reverence.”
This belief in the importance of Tradition is rooted in the understanding that not everything Jesus taught was recorded in the Bible. It is believed that the early Christian community relied on both oral and written teachings, which were handed down through the generations.
The concept of apostolic succession, which is closely tied to Tradition, asserts that the authority and teachings of the apostles are passed down through subsequent generations of bishops. This unbroken chain of succession is believed to guarantee the continuity and authenticity of the apostolic faith.
Example of Apostolic Succession in Catholicism
To illustrate the role of Tradition in Catholicism and its connection to apostolic succession, here is an example:
| Peter the Apostle | … | Pope Francis |
|---|---|---|
| Pio Laghi | … | Gianfranco Ravasi |
| Francois Canizares Llovera | … | Emil Paul Tscherrig |
| Miloslav Vlk | … | Francisco Clavairoly |
| Vaclav Malý | … | André-Joseph Léonard |
| … | … | Géry Leuliet |
| … | … | Peter R. van Mulbregt |
| … | … | Vicente Aníbal Ramírez |
| … | … | Matt Gregory Keller |
| … | … | Bishop X |
This example shows a hypothetical line of apostolic succession from St. Peter, the first Pope, to Pope Francis, the current Pope. Each generation of bishops is believed to have received authority and teachings directly from the preceding generation, leading all the way back to the apostles themselves.
Through apostolic succession and the preservation of Tradition, the Catholic Church claims to maintain a direct link to the teachings and authority of Jesus and the apostles.
What the Apostles Didn’t Know
The apostles, despite being close companions of Jesus, did not possess knowledge about certain key aspects of his teachings. Most notably, they did not anticipate that Jesus would not return during their lifetimes. Their questions to Jesus about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and their expectation of witnessing the establishment of the Messianic age indicate their lack of understanding regarding the timing of the Second Coming. This suggests that they did not conceive of a continuous line of successors to the apostolic office.
Throughout their time with Jesus, the apostles had witnessed his miraculous powers, heard his teachings, and understood their significance. However, the notion of Jesus’ return at the end of the age was not fully comprehended by them. Their expectations for the restoration of Israel and the coming of the Messianic age were intertwined with their belief in Jesus as the Messiah. They eagerly anticipated the fulfillment of these prophecies and the triumph of the kingdom of God on earth.
“Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” – Acts 1:6
This lack of awareness regarding the timing of Jesus’ return highlights the apostles’ limited understanding of certain aspects of his teachings. While they were eyewitnesses to his ministry, they did not possess a comprehensive grasp of the future events that would unfold after Jesus’ departure from the earth.
Implications for Apostolic Succession
The apostles’ misconception regarding the timing of the Second Coming raises questions about the concept of apostolic succession, which entails a continuous lineage of successors to the apostolic office. If the apostles themselves did not anticipate the need for such successors, it challenges the claim that a direct line of authority from the apostles must exist for the church to be considered authentic.
While the apostles laid the foundation for the early church and played a crucial role in establishing its teachings, their limited knowledge regarding the timing of Jesus’ return suggests that the true church is not solely dependent on a specific, direct line of apostolic succession. The teachings and principles of Jesus, rather than a continuous line of successors, should serve as the basis for identifying the authentic church.
The apostles’ lack of understanding regarding the timing of the Second Coming highlights the importance of critically evaluating and interpreting historical and theological claims, considering the broader context of Jesus’ teachings and the overall message of the Bible.
Key Points about the Timing of Jesus’ Return and Apostolic Succession
| What the Apostles Didn’t Know | Implications for Apostolic Succession |
|---|---|
| The apostles did not anticipate the timing of Jesus’ Second Coming. | This challenges the necessity of a continuous line of successors to the apostolic office for a church to be deemed authentic. |
| The apostles expected the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and the establishment of the Messianic age in their lifetimes. | Their limited understanding suggests that the true church is not solely dependent on apostolic succession but is rooted in the teachings of Jesus. |
| The apostles’ lack of knowledge about the Second Coming highlights the need for critical evaluation of historical and theological claims. | Interpreting the broader context of Jesus’ teachings and scripture is crucial for identifying the authentic church. |
There is a True Church
The Bible states that Jesus established a Church called the Church of God. This church is characterized by its adherence to the doctrines established by Jesus and its belief that the original Christianity of the first century does not need to be changed or watered down.
“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
In the Church of God, the teachings and principles of Jesus are held in high regard. It seeks to follow the example set by Jesus and the early apostles, reflecting the original Christianity that was practiced in the first century.
The Church of God believes in upholding the doctrines and teachings passed down by Jesus, viewing them as essential for a faithful and authentic Christian life. It holds steadfastly to the fundamental principles outlined in the Bible, valuing them as the timeless and unchanging truths of God.
By remaining faithful to the teachings and doctrines of Jesus, the Church of God aims to preserve the essence of original Christianity. It focuses on the core principles of love, forgiveness, humility, and discipleship as taught by Jesus.
To illustrate, here is a comparison table that highlights some of the key differences between the Church of God and other Christian denominations:
| Church of God | Other Denominations |
|---|---|
| Adherence to the doctrines and teachings established by Jesus | Variations in interpretations and practices |
| Emphasis on the authority of Scripture in shaping beliefs and practices | Incorporation of additional traditions and teachings |
| Commitment to the principles of love, forgiveness, and discipleship | Differing emphasis on certain aspects of Christian living |
| Belief in the sufficiency of the original Christianity of the first century | Acceptance of evolving interpretations and practices |
By remaining true to the teachings of Jesus and the original Christianity of the first century, the Church of God strives to be a faithful representation of the church that Jesus established.
The Church Through the Centuries
Throughout history, the Church of God, and other churches that adhere to the teachings of Jesus, have faced persecutions and martyrdom for their faith. Despite these challenges, they have remained faithful to Jesus’ commands and teachings.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10
From the early days of Christianity, followers of Jesus faced intense persecutions and even martyrdom for their unwavering faith. They endured hardships, imprisonment, and violent deaths, all in their commitment to remain true to Jesus’ teachings.
One notable example is the martyrdom of the apostle Peter, who was crucified upside down because he refused to renounce his faith in Jesus. He remained faithful until the very end, even in the face of torture and death.
The Church of God’s enduring faithfulness to Jesus’ commands serves as a testament to their unwavering devotion and commitment to spreading the message of love, forgiveness, and salvation.
Despite facing severe persecutions throughout the centuries, the Church of God has stood as a beacon of hope and resilience, spreading the teachings of Jesus and remaining steadfast in their mission to bring people closer to God. Their faithfulness to Jesus’ commands continues to inspire millions around the world to live a life of love, compassion, and devotion.
Persecutions and Trials
The Church of God has endured countless persecutions and trials throughout history. From the early days of the Roman Empire, Christians were persecuted for their refusal to worship the emperor as a deity. They were brutally tortured, imprisoned, and even fed to wild animals in arenas for the entertainment of the masses.
During the Middle Ages, the Inquisition targeted anyone deemed heretical, leading to the torture and execution of countless individuals who dared to challenge the established religious authorities. The Reformation brought forth further persecutions, as different branches of Christianity clashed in their interpretations of the faith.
Even in modern times, believers in persecuted regions face discrimination, imprisonment, and even death for their faith. Their commitment to Jesus’ commands and teachings sustains them in the face of unimaginable hardships.
The Church of God’s perseverance through persecutions and trials is a testament to their unyielding faith and their unwavering commitment to Jesus’ commands and teachings.
Their refusal to renounce their faith in the face of persecution and martyrdom serves as a reminder to all believers of the importance of remaining faithful to Jesus’ commands, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Despite the persecutions and martyrdom endured by the Church of God and other faithful believers, their unwavering faithfulness to Jesus’ commands has not wavered. They continue to stand as a testament to the power of faith and the enduring message of love and salvation.
How to Find Jesus’ Church Today
With the multitude of denominations claiming to be the true church, it can be challenging to discern which one aligns with Jesus’ teachings. One approach is to seek a church that faithfully adheres to the original teachings of Jesus and does not claim to improve or change them.
When searching for the true church established by Jesus, it is essential to look for denominations that prioritize adherence to his teachings. This means focusing on churches that value the Bible as the ultimate authority and guide for faith and practice. By emphasizing the importance of Scripture, these churches aim to stay true to the principles and values taught by Jesus himself.
It is also crucial to consider the different denominations’ interpretation of Jesus’ teachings. Each denomination may have its own distinct perspective on certain biblical passages or theological doctrines. Taking the time to study and compare these interpretations can help individuals determine which alignment with their personal understanding of Jesus’ teachings.
Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.” (John 8:31)
Furthermore, assessing a denomination’s commitment to the core doctrines of Christianity is essential. Jesus’ teachings on salvation, the nature of God, the Trinity, and the importance of love and compassion for others are fundamental aspects of the true church. Look for denominations that prioritize these doctrines and live them out in their community and outreach efforts.
Finally, seeking guidance from trusted mentors, theologians, and spiritual leaders can provide valuable insights in the search for Jesus’ church. Their experience and knowledge can offer guidance and help individuals navigate the complexities of different denominations and their adherence to Jesus’ teachings.
Key Points:
- S
tudy the different interpretations of Jesus’ teachings within denominations. - Consider a denomination’s commitment to core Christian doctrines.
- Seek guidance from trusted mentors and spiritual leaders.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate over what church Jesus built continues to be a subject of contention among various denominations. While each denomination claims to be the true church, it is crucial to emphasize the alignment with Jesus’ teachings and unwavering faithfulness to them. The size or popularity of a church does not determine its authenticity. Instead, what matters is the commitment to preserving the original Christianity of the first century.
Rather than searching for the largest or most prominent denomination, believers should prioritize finding a church that adheres strictly to the doctrines and principles taught by Jesus. This involves maintaining unwavering allegiance to His teachings and embracing the roots of the faith established in the first century.
The true church, the one built by Jesus, remains faithful to His teachings, valuing both Scripture and Tradition as sources of authority. It recognizes the significance of apostolic succession while not dismissing the importance of continuous study and interpretation of the Bible.
FAQ
What church did Jesus build?
The debate about what church Jesus actually built is ongoing. While there is no consensus, some believe Jesus established a church governed by bishops and archbishops, while others believe he provided a different means to find the true church.
What is the meaning of “church”?
In Greek, the word for “church” is ekklesia, which simply means “assembly” or “gathering”. It can refer to any group of people gathered together, whether for religious or secular purposes.
What is apostolic succession?
Apostolic succession is the belief that church leaders can trace their authority directly back to the apostles. Multiple denominations claim apostolic succession, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and others.
What is the role of Scripture and Tradition in the church?
Catholic theologians argue that the Word of God consists of both Scripture and Tradition, and that apostolic succession is part of this oral teaching. They believe that the church’s tradition is sufficient evidence for apostolic succession, even without clear biblical support.
What did the apostles know about the future of the church?
The apostles did not know that Jesus would not return during their lifetimes. This is evident in their questions to Jesus about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and their expectation of living to see the establishment of the Messianic age.
Is there a true church?
The Bible states that Jesus established a Church called the Church of God. This church is characterized by its adherence to the doctrines established by Jesus and its belief that the original Christianity of the first century does not need to be changed or watered down.
How has the church survived throughout history?
Throughout history, the Church of God, and other churches that adhere to the teachings of Jesus, have faced persecution and martyrdom for their faith. Despite these challenges, they have remained faithful to Jesus’ commands and teachings.
How can one find Jesus’ church today?
With the multitude of denominations claiming to be the true church, it can be challenging to discern which one aligns with Jesus’ teachings. One approach is to seek a church that faithfully adheres to the original teachings of Jesus and does not claim to improve or change them.
What is the conclusion about the church Jesus built?
The question of what church Jesus built remains a topic of debate. While various denominations claim to be the true church, it is important to seek a church that aligns with Jesus’ teachings and remains faithful to them. The true church is not necessarily the largest or most popular, but the one that continues to adhere to the original Christianity of the first century.
Source Links
- https://lifehopeandtruth.com/life/blog/where-is-the-church-jesus-built/
- https://www.cgi.org/church-jesus-built
- https://christiansareus.com/2016/03/22/how-many-churches-did-jesus-establish/
I’m Benjamin, a passionate spiritual seeker and creator of Verses and Prayers. Alongside my girlfriend Emma and our pet lizard Mulle, I cherish family life, enjoy exploring new places, and am deeply involved in my church community. My love for reading and singing biblical verses inspires every aspect of my journey.