What does the word “church” mean?

Have you ever been sitting in the bleachers, watching others play a game, and someone called out to you, “Hey, we’re short one person—come join our side!” If you got up and joined their team, you became one of the “called out” persons. That’s what the Greek word for church literally means. The word ekklesia comes from two words: “out” and “to call.” Those who respond to Jesus’ call become part of the church, which is also called “the body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:27).

In the secular Greek world, the word ekklesia described any group that gathered for a regular meeting, like a political rally. But in harmony with the Old Testament idea of a gathering or congregation, this word is especially applied to people who believed Jesus was the Messiah and chose to accept His teachings. They became part of a group and didn’t just live in isolation. There was an emphasis on being part of the body (Romans 12:4, 5).

Unfortunately, the church became corrupt. Pagan teachings infiltrated the doctrines, and certain practices distorted the truth. The false church came to be called Babylon, and, in the last days, a call is made to “come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues” (Revelation 18:4). This false church is also compared to an impure woman (v. 3), whereas God’s true church and its followers are compared to a pure woman (Revelation 12:1).

How will you know if you are truly being “called out” to the right church? Study what the Bible says about God’s true people. This group will share the everlasting gospel with the entire world (Revelation 14:6, 7). These people are called a “remnant” who remain loyal to God and keep all His commandments in the last days (Revelation 12:17). And these followers are filled with the faith of Jesus (Revelation 14:12).

Those who respond to God’s call follow Peter’s words to “repent and be baptized” (Acts 2:38). When people are baptized into the body of Christ, they become part of His church (1 Corinthians 12:13).

Key Bible Texts

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (John 10:27 KJV)