Some impressions of the church can be positive; some are negative. In the end, however, the Bible presents the church as not merely for something or something we do but rather an intrinsic part of who we are in Christ. Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that the church is not a building or an organization but a people.

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" (1 Peter 2:9). This passage shows that the church is woven into our identity as believers. It’s not just a gathering we attend; it is a living organism to which we belong. Being part of the church is an inescapable reality of being "in Christ."

Through the saving grace of Christ, believers are joined together as the body of Christ. Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:27: "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." This isn’t an optional membership; it’s a defining truth. If we are believers in Christ, we are part of the church. Each of us plays a unique role, connected to the whole. Our spiritual growth and our relationship with Christ are deeply tied to this connection. We cannot fully understand our faith apart from our place in this church.

While the church can and should engage in missions, teaching, worship, and serving, these are outward expressions of something much more profound: the church reflects Christ to the world. Ephesians 5:25-27 paints the picture of the church as the Bride of Christ. In other words, the church isn’t just doing things for Christ; it is the radiant display of His love, redemption, and glory. The act of “churching” should reflect that.

Understanding the church as part of who we are reshapes how we live.

1.    We prioritize community: Fellowship isn’t optional—it’s essential. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us to not give up meeting together because the church thrives in unity.
2.    We embrace our role: Each believer has gifts and responsibilities that contribute to the body. Whether teaching, encouraging, or serving, our participation matters.
3.    We embody Christ’s love: The church is God’s chosen instrument to reflect His love and grace to the world. When we serve, forgive, and sacrifice for others, we show Christ in action.

To be in Christ is to be part of His church—not just for its mission, but as a core aspect of our identity. When we gather, worship, and serve, we don’t merely fulfill an obligation; we live out who we are as His redeemed people. The church is not a task to complete or a role to fill. It is a profound and eternal reality of who we are in Christ.