In Christianity, the word "church" refers to a community or organization of Christian believers
. The original Greek term ekklēsia meant an official assembly of citizens
. The church is not a building, but a body of believers united in Christ
. The word "church" can refer to:
- The Christian religious community as a whole
- The entire body of Christians throughout the world
- Believers in a particular area
- A congregation meeting in a particular house
- A religious organization or congregation that meets in a particular location, often for worship
The universal church includes every person, everywhere, who has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ
. Local churches are gatherings of people who claim the name of Christ
. The church's purpose involves worship, edification, and evangelism
