PRINTIn Matthew 18:17 Jesus uses the term “church.” Since the church was not started until after Jesus’ death and resurrection, what does the term refer to?
In Matthew 18:17 Jesus uses the term “church.” Since the church was not started until after Jesus’ death and resurrection, what does the term refer to?
The term church comes from the Greek word ekklesia, meaning "gathering" or "assembly." It simply refers to a group of people being gathered together. In the context of Christ-followers, it means a group of people gathering together in Christ's name.
The word “church” in the New Testament comes from the Greek word, ekklesia, which means “to call out.” The only two references in the Gospels are from Jesus. Besides the one you cited, the other one occurs in Matthew 16:18.
|
» God
» The Bible » Christian Life » Origins » Heaven & Hell » World Religions » Global Concerns » Social Issues » Politics » Science » Entertainment » Art & Beauty » Relationships » Show All |
|
|
Comments
I would actually argue that the term "church" refers to us as individuals. Throughout my quest for truth, I've realized that literal levels of meaning had far less to do with what the original gospel writers intended to share when they first inscribed the words millennia ago.