The apostolic church, in its essential character, is a supernatural organism empowered by divine life, fully equipped to sustain and govern itself apart from the state. Though not perfect, it reflects the holiness, freedom, and unity of Christ’s spiritual kingdom—and stands as his visible body on earth, growing toward the full measure of divine maturity.
The Apostolic Church as a Self-Governing Organism
The early church was marked by independence from civil authority. While the apostles taught respect and submission to civil rulers in temporal matters (cf. Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17), they reserved spiritual allegiance for Christ alone. The words “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29) summarize the apostolic stance toward political interference.
The church did not seek political power or protection but bore witness through suffering and nonviolent resistance. Its true strength lay not in state privilege but in martyrdom, humility, and the moral authority of truth.
The Church as the Body of Christ
Paul’s dominant ecclesiology defines the church as the body of Christ—a living, organic whole comprised of diverse members united under one Head (Ephesians 4:12, Colossians 1:18). This imagery emphasizes:
- Interdependence: All members function in harmony for mutual growth.
- Christ’s indwelling life: He is both the Head and the soul animating the Church.
- Continuous development: The body grows “unto a full-grown man” in Christ (Eph. 4:13).
The visible congregations of the first century—often composed of the poor, slaves, and marginalized—stood in stark contrast to this sublime ideal. Yet Paul’s vision points forward to the Church’s eternal destiny, rooted in divine inspiration, not social estimation.
The Church and the Kingdom of God
Though related, the concepts of Church and Kingdom are not identical:
| Feature | The Church | The Kingdom of God |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Visible, external, institutional | Invisible, internal, spiritual |
| Scope | Bound by space, time, and organization | Transcends all boundaries; includes saints of all ages |
| Mission | Proclaims the gospel and administers sacraments | Embodies God’s reign over hearts and history |
| Language | Pauline focus (e.g., “body of Christ”) | Jesus’ central theme (e.g., “Thy kingdom come”) |
While Christ speaks only once of the Church in the universal sense (Matthew 16:18), he frequently teaches about the Kingdom in parables, making it the center of his teaching.
Church History as Kingdom History
The visible Church serves as a training ground for the coming Kingdom. Though prone to imperfection, it carries the seed of divine life and will ultimately give way to the full manifestation of God’s reign. Church history, then, is not merely the record of ecclesiastical institutions but the unfolding of Christ’s kingdom across time.
Paul’s vision in Ephesians 4:13—“until we all attain…unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ”—remains the goal of the church’s pilgrimage. Its realization is not yet complete but assured in the sovereignty of its Head.
The Church: A Vessel of Eternal Glory
The church is the visible scaffold of an invisible temple. It is a fragile vessel of eternal treasure. The kingdom of Christ works through her, even when she falters. The Christian’s ultimate allegiance is not to any ecclesiastical structure, but to the King whose throne is everlasting, and whose glory shall one day fill all creation.
