What Is the Church?

The word “church” means “those who are called out.” Throughout history, many have been “called out,” including groups claiming to follow God. The Jews, for instance, identified themselves as God's people, rooted in Abraham's lineage and the writings of Moses. But Jesus introduced a different kind of calling: “My church” would be set apart by full submission to Him as the final and supreme authority.

Jesus said, “I am the door” (John 10:9). Entry into His church comes only through Him—through surrender and trust. There is no other entrance, no alternate qualification. Anyone promoting another way is introducing a false standard. Scripture is unmistakably clear:

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Only one name—Jesus Christ. That is the name that saves. Not any church title, not any denomination. No human institution holds the keys to salvation.

A Spirit of Exclusivity?
Jesus’ own disciples once showed a narrow view of God's work. When they saw someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name, they tried to stop him because he didn’t belong to their group.

“We forbade him, because he followeth not us” (Mark 9:38).
But Jesus replied, “Forbid him not… for he that is not against us is on our part” (Mark 9:39-40).

This mindset—“you are not with us, so you’re outside of God’s grace”—still exists in some circles today. But it contradicts the heart of Jesus' mission.

One Fold, One Shepherd
There is one body, one Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:4-5). Yet this one fold is not a denomination. It is defined by loyalty to Jesus.

Jesus said:

“Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring... and there shall be one fold, and one Shepherd” (John 10:16).

At that time, Jesus’ “fold” consisted of His disciples—those who followed Him. But there were many others, sincere worshipers, who had not yet heard of Him. What excluded them? Simply this: they had not yet come to follow Christ.

Following Jesus—believing in Him, surrendering to Him—is the sole condition for entering His church.

The Danger of Man-Made Barriers
When a denomination claims to be the exclusive fold of God, it often creates extra requirements for membership beyond simple faith in Christ. This contradicts the gospel message.

See examples in:

Acts 16:31 — “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved”

Acts 8:36-38 — A simple confession of faith led to immediate baptism

Acts 19:3-5 — Disciples were baptized in Jesus’ name upon hearing the truth

One Church, Many Functions
Yes, there is one body—but that body is diverse:

“There are diversities of gifts… differences of administrations… diversities of operations, but the same God worketh all in all” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).

No single ministry, structure, or leadership represents the entirety of God's work. Christ is the Head of His church. He works through many people, in many places, using many methods. Attempts to control or monopolize His work are misguided.

The true Church is not confined to labels. It is made up of all who hear Christ’s voice, follow Him, and submit to His authority.