One of the final assignments in my seminar on Ecclesiology (the doctrine of the Church) is:
Write a definition of the Church (using no more than 100 words); this definition should include considerations for both the Church universal and the local church.
Below is what I have thus far. I’d love to hear comments and feedback.
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The Church is the Body and Bride of Christ redeemed by Jesus, called and sustained by the Spirit, to the glory of the Father. This Universal Church, fully known only to God, consists of those who truly belong to Christ in all places and ages and remains invisible until the Eschaton. The local church ideally consists of regenerate disciples of Christ who covenant together under His lordship for corporate worship, common mission, and authentic spiritual community. The church community grows and is sustained by the right ministry of the Word, baptism, the Lord’s Supper, and prayer.