Greek Word for Church: Ekklesia
• Meaning: “Called out ones” or “assembly” (rooted in Hebrew qahal, assembly/congregation).
• A group of people called by God to assemble.
Progressive Definition of the word Church (Book of Acts)
1 Called to Assemble
◦ Acts 2:42.
◦ Church is a purposeful community gathered for worship and teaching.
2 Radical Commitment to Each Other
◦ Acts 2:45
◦ Church members share resources and support each other sacrificially.
3 Set Apart from the World
◦ Acts 5:12–13; Acts 6:2
◦ Church is a distinct group, devoted to God, living differently from the world.
10 Characteristics of a Church (New Testament)
1 Recognized Leadership
◦ 1 Timothy 3:1; Acts 14:23.
◦ Church is led by appointed elders/overseers for spiritual guidance.
2 Commitment to the Word
◦ Acts 2:42; 2 Timothy 2:2.
◦ Church prioritizes teaching, preaching, and discipling from Scripture.
3 Supernatural Ministry
◦ Acts 2:43.
◦ Church operates in Holy Spirit’s power, shown through signs and wonders.
4 Fellowship as Family
◦ Acts 2:44–45.
◦ Church is a family-like community with deep relational bonds.
5 Communion/Sacraments
◦ Acts 2:46; 1 Corinthians 11:23–24.
◦ Church regularly practices communion to remember Christ’s sacrifice.
6 Evangelism and Salvation
◦ Acts 2:38.
◦ Church evangelizes, baptizes, and sees believers filled with the Holy Spirit.
7 Church Discipline
◦ Acts 5:3–5; Matthew 18:15–17.
◦ Church maintains holiness through corrective discipline.
8 Service to the Poor
◦ Acts 6:1–3.
◦ Church organizes practical care for the vulnerable, like widows.
9 Obedience to the Great Commission
◦ Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 1:8.
◦ Church makes disciples globally, spreading the gospel.
10 Public Prayer and Worship
◦ Acts 2:47; Acts 4:24.
◦ Church collectively prays and worships, glorifying God.