The Biblical Definition of the Living Church

The biblical definition of the church is that it is a holy temple for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, composed of individuals who represent the divine character to the worldPCO 127.1+2. It is Christ’s chosen instrumentality on earth, a spiritual habitation where every member is ennobled by His divine attributes13LtMs, Ms 193, 1898, par. 2+2.

The Church as a Divine Temple

The living church is not merely a building but a collection of souls where the Lord Jesus Christ dwells in the innermost being13LtMs, Ms 193, 1898, par. 2.

• Each individual member is to be a well-built temple for the Holy Spirit13LtMs, Ms 193, 1898, par. 2.

• This spiritual structure is fitly framed together to grow into a holy temple in the Lord Ephesians 2:2113LtMs, Ms 64, 1898, par. 33.

• The goal of this union is to reflect the perfection of the divine character through the transforming grace of ChristPCO 127.1+1.

Characteristics of the True Church

The church is identified by its adherence to the truth and its demonstration of Christlike love17MR 306.2+1.

• Unity in Truth: The church must unify on pure, elevating truth rather than human commandments or wrong practices17MR 306.2+1.

• Reflecting the Character of God: Members are called to demonstrate God's goodness, mercy, and holiness in their practical livesCH 203.4+1.

• Fruit of the Spirit: True faith in the church is revealed through outward works and inward piety that show a "Christlikeness"13LtMs, Ms 16, 1898, par. 9+1.

• Sanctification: The church is to be a community where the whole spirit, soul, and body are preserved blameless until the coming of the Lord 1 Thessalonians 5:23CCh 50.1.

The Mission of the Church

The church exists as a light-bearer to a world in darkness, carrying out a specific plan of salvationAUCR April 1, 1898, par. 12+1.

• It serves as a channel through which the Lord sends grace and light to the world8T 46.1.

• The church is complete only when every portion of it is engaged in the work of saving soulsAUCR April 1, 1898, par. 12+1.

• It is the privilege of the church to show that Christ has given refreshment and strength to those who follow Him13LtMs, Ms 16, 1898, par. 9.

Cautions and Requirements

To remain the true church, believers must guard against internal and external dangers17MR 306.2+1.

• The church is enfeebled when it receives the commandments of men for doctrines17MR 306.2+1.

• True unity is only found when members humble themselves before God and yield to the creating power of the Holy Spirit13LtMs, Ms 64, 1898, par. 33.

• The church must be rooted and built up in Christ, established in the faith, and wary of philosophy or traditions that are not after Him Colossians 2:6-106MR 27.1+1.