Articles
Why is it Called the "Church of Christ?"
Why Is It Called The “Church of Christ”?
Do you wonder why it is so important that the church be designated properly? Let us give these very simple and very vital reasons:
1. The church belongs to Christ by right of purchase. “To feed the church of the Lord which he purchased with his own blood” Acts 20:28. No other person or thing, therefore, should have any part in the title of the church.
2. The church is the body of Christ. “And he is the head of the body, the church.” (Col. 1:18) The body of Christ is the church of Christ, so it is altogether logical and right that the church be called “the church of Christ.”
3. The church is the bride of Christ. “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is great: but I speak in regard of Christ and the church.” (Eph. 5:31 -32)
4. The church operates under the sole authority of Christ. “All power in heaven and earth has been given unto me: go ye therefore...” Matt. 28:18-20. Since it operates by no earthly authority, by what right should it be called after any earthly being or thing?
5. Christ is the Savior of the Church. “Christ also is head of the church, being himself the savior of the body.” Eph. 5:23. So we are obligated to no other person or thing. Why should we desire to glorify any other than the Savior? - H. L. Collett
