Ecclesiology & Sacraments (Church, authority, baptism, Eucharist, repentance)
Ecclesiology & Sacraments (Church, Authority, Baptism, Eucharist, Repentance) These topics cover the nature and governance of the church, and the sacred practices through which believers encounter God's grace. --- 1. Ecclesiology (The Doctrine of the Church) Ecclesiology is the study of the church—its nature, marks, government, and mission. The term comes from the Greek ekklesia ("assembly" or "called-out ones") and logos ("study"). - Nature of the Church: - The Body of Christ: Believers are united to Christ and to one another (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 1:22–23). - The Temple of the Holy Spirit: The church is God's dwelling place (1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 2:19–22). - The Bride of Christ: The church is beloved and destined for union with Christ (Ephesians 5:25–27; Revelation 19:7). - The People of God: A covenant community set apart for His purposes (1 Peter 2:9–10). - Marks of the Church: The Nicene Creed identifies four mark...