message of the church, The

Book Description

In this thoughtful exploration of Christian community, Christopher Green presents a multifaceted understanding of what it means to be the church in today's world. Green approaches his subject through three interconnected perspectives that reveal the profound nature of spiritual community.

The author begins by examining the church as the bearer of humanity's most essential message: God's redemptive work through Christ. This foundational truth shapes everything that follows, as Green demonstrates how this divine rescue becomes the cornerstone of authentic spiritual life. Moving beyond mere doctrine, he shows how the church itself emerges as the living embodiment of this transformative message, a community created and sustained by the very truth it proclaims.

Perhaps most compelling is Green's third dimension, where he reveals how the church becomes a message in itself. Through the gathered lives of imperfect people seeking to respond faithfully to divine love, the community speaks volumes about grace, healing, and hope to a watching world.

Green's exposition traces the church's story across the grand sweep of biblical history, from eternity through Eden, exodus, and exile, ultimately pointing toward eternal fulfillment. He then delves into practical dimensions of community life, exploring worship, unity, spiritual maturity, service, spiritual gifts, holiness, healthy boundaries, and future hope.

This comprehensive yet accessible work offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand authentic spiritual community and their place within it.