How Was The Church Established By Jesus Christ

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Christian.net, at no extra cost. Learn more)

The Mission of Jesus Christ

The mission of Jesus Christ was to bring salvation to humanity and establish the foundation for the Christian faith. Jesus came to fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament and to reveal the will of God to the world. His mission was characterized by love, compassion, and a desire to reconcile humanity with God. Through his teachings, miracles, and ultimately his sacrifice, Jesus laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Church.

1. Proclamation of the Kingdom of God: Jesus began his mission by proclaiming the arrival of the Kingdom of God. He taught about repentance, forgiveness, and the need for spiritual renewal. His message focused on the love of God and the invitation for people to enter into a relationship with Him.

2. Healing and Miracles: Throughout his ministry, Jesus performed numerous miracles, demonstrating his divine authority and compassion for those who were suffering. These miracles served as a sign of the coming Kingdom and revealed Jesus' power over sickness, nature, and even death.

3. Teaching and Parables: Jesus used parables and teachings to convey profound spiritual truths. His messages emphasized the importance of love, humility, forgiveness, and the ethical principles of the Kingdom of God. Through his teachings, Jesus provided guidance for living a life that is pleasing to God.

4. Demonstration of God's Love: Jesus' mission was a demonstration of God's love for humanity. His willingness to engage with the marginalized, the outcasts, and the sinners reflected the inclusive nature of God's Kingdom. By reaching out to those in need, Jesus exemplified the compassion and mercy of God.

5. Preparation for the Church: Ultimately, Jesus' mission prepared the groundwork for the establishment of the Church. His teachings, the selection of the apostles, and the commissioning of his followers were all integral parts of laying the foundation for the community of believers that would carry on his message after his departure.

In summary, the mission of Jesus Christ was a transformative and redemptive journey that culminated in the establishment of the Church. His life, teachings, miracles, and sacrificial death were all essential components in fulfilling the divine purpose of bringing salvation and reconciliation to humanity.

The Selection of the Apostles

The selection of the apostles was a pivotal moment in the establishment of the Church by Jesus Christ. Jesus chose twelve men to be his closest companions and to carry on his mission after his departure. The selection of the apostles was a deliberate and strategic process, reflecting Jesus' wisdom and foresight in building the foundation of the Christian community.

1. Purposeful Selection: Jesus carefully handpicked the twelve apostles, knowing that they would play a crucial role in the continuation of his ministry. He sought individuals who would not only witness his teachings and miracles but also become the bearers of his message to the world.

2. Diversity of Backgrounds: The chosen apostles came from various backgrounds, reflecting the inclusivity of Jesus' mission. From fishermen to tax collectors, Jesus intentionally selected individuals from different walks of life, emphasizing that the message of the Kingdom was meant for people from all societal strata.

3. Investment in Relationship: Jesus invested time and effort in nurturing a close relationship with the apostles. He shared meals with them, engaged in intimate conversations, and provided them with personal guidance. This investment in their relationship was essential for preparing them to carry on his mission.

4. Training and Commissioning: Throughout their time with Jesus, the apostles received training and instruction. They witnessed his teachings, participated in his ministry, and were given the authority to heal the sick and cast out demons. Jesus also commissioned them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and make disciples of all nations.

5. Symbolic Number: The selection of twelve apostles held symbolic significance, as it mirrored the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the continuity and fulfillment of God's covenant with His people. This symbolic parallel reinforced the apostles' role in the restoration and expansion of God's redemptive plan.

6. Preparation for Leadership: Jesus' selection of the apostles was a deliberate preparation for leadership within the emerging Christian community. He entrusted them with the responsibility of shepherding and guiding the believers who would form the early Church.

In essence, the selection of the apostles by Jesus Christ was a foundational step in establishing the Church. Their role as witnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, as well as their subsequent leadership in the early Christian community, underscored the significance of their selection in carrying forward the mission of Jesus.

The Teachings and Miracles of Jesus

The teachings and miracles of Jesus were integral to the establishment of the Church and the dissemination of his message. Jesus' teachings encompassed a wide array of subjects, ranging from ethical principles to the nature of the Kingdom of God. Through his parables and direct instructions, Jesus conveyed profound spiritual truths that continue to resonate with believers today. His teachings emphasized love, compassion, forgiveness, and the importance of living a life aligned with God's will.

1. Parables and Moral Lessons: Jesus often used parables, or allegorical stories, to illustrate moral and spiritual lessons. These parables, such as the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the Mustard Seed, conveyed timeless truths about God's kingdom, human nature, and the ethical conduct expected of his followers.

2. Ethical and Moral Guidance: Jesus' teachings provided ethical and moral guidance for his disciples and future believers. He emphasized the commandments to love God and love one's neighbor, as well as the principles of humility, mercy, and justice. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, in which he delivered the Beatitudes and other ethical teachings, remains a cornerstone of Christian ethics.

3. Revelation of God's Nature: Through his teachings, Jesus revealed the nature of God as a loving and merciful Father. He invited people to approach God with trust and confidence, emphasizing the availability of divine grace and forgiveness to those who seek it.

4. Demonstration of Divine Authority: The miracles performed by Jesus served as demonstrations of his divine authority and power. From healing the sick and raising the dead to calming storms and feeding multitudes, Jesus' miracles attested to his identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies.

5. Signs of the Kingdom: Jesus' miracles were also signs of the coming Kingdom of God. They symbolized the restoration of creation, the defeat of evil, and the inauguration of a new era characterized by divine intervention and redemption.

6. Empowerment of the Disciples: In addition to demonstrating his own authority, Jesus empowered his disciples to perform miracles and heal the sick. This empowerment was a tangible manifestation of the Kingdom's presence and a foreshadowing of the role his followers would play in continuing his mission.

Overall, the teachings and miracles of Jesus were foundational to the establishment of the Church. They provided the ethical framework, spiritual insights, and tangible demonstrations of divine power that would shape the beliefs and practices of the early Christian community. Jesus' teachings and miracles continue to inspire and guide believers in their faith and mission to this day.

The Last Supper and the Crucifixion

The Last Supper, a significant event in the life of Jesus Christ, marked the culmination of his earthly ministry and the initiation of the central sacrament of the Christian faith. During this final meal with his disciples, Jesus instituted the Eucharist, symbolizing the offering of his body and blood for the redemption of humanity. The Last Supper also served as the backdrop for Jesus' profound teachings and the revelation of his impending sacrifice. Following this poignant gathering, Jesus faced the harrowing ordeal of his crucifixion, an event that holds paramount importance in Christian theology.

The Last Supper

• Institution of the Eucharist: At the Last Supper, Jesus took bread, blessed it, and gave it to his disciples, declaring it to be his body. He then took the cup, blessed it, and shared it with them, signifying his blood, which would be shed for the forgiveness of sins. This act established the sacrament of the Eucharist, a central rite in Christian worship that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus.

• Revelation of Betrayal: During the Last Supper, Jesus foretold his betrayal by one of his own disciples, Judas Iscariot. This revelation underscored the depth of Jesus' suffering and the fulfillment of prophetic scriptures, highlighting the profound significance of the events that were about to unfold.

• Teachings and Farewell Discourse: Jesus used the Last Supper as an opportunity to impart final teachings to his disciples. He emphasized the importance of love, humility, and servanthood, setting an example for his followers to emulate. Additionally, Jesus delivered a farewell discourse, comforting and preparing his disciples for the trials they would face after his departure.

The Crucifixion

• Sacrificial Atonement: The crucifixion of Jesus represents the pinnacle of his redemptive mission. Nailed to the cross at Golgotha, Jesus willingly endured excruciating suffering and humiliation, offering himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. This act of atonement reconciled humanity with God, demonstrating the depth of divine love and mercy.

• Triumph over Sin and Death: Through his crucifixion, Jesus triumphed over the powers of sin and death, fulfilling the prophecies and inaugurating a new covenant between God and humanity. His sacrificial death served as the ultimate expression of God's grace and the means through which believers could experience forgiveness and eternal life.

• Redemption and Salvation: The crucifixion of Jesus holds profound theological significance, as it represents the means by which humanity is redeemed and reconciled with God. Jesus' willingness to endure the cross exemplifies the depth of God's love and the extent to which he was willing to go to secure the salvation of humanity.

In summary, the Last Supper and the crucifixion are pivotal events in the life of Jesus Christ, embodying the essence of Christian faith and the redemptive purpose of his mission. These events form the cornerstone of Christian theology, symbolizing the sacrificial love and atoning work of Jesus, which laid the foundation for the establishment of the Church and the hope of salvation for believers.

The Resurrection and Ascension

The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ are central to the Christian faith, signifying the culmination of his earthly ministry and the affirmation of his divine identity. The resurrection, in particular, stands as the cornerstone of Christian belief, demonstrating the victory of Jesus over death and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Following his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, affirming his exalted status and commissioning his disciples to continue his mission. These events hold profound theological significance and serve as the basis for the hope and assurance of salvation within the Christian tradition.

The Resurrection

• Defeat of Death: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead represents the ultimate triumph over death and the grave. His resurrection validated his claims of being the Son of God and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies, establishing the foundation of Christian faith in the resurrection of the dead.

• Confirmation of Divine Authority: The resurrection served as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divine authority and the truth of his teachings. It validated his identity as the promised Messiah and demonstrated the power of God over the forces of sin and death.

• Hope for Believers: The resurrection offers hope to believers, assuring them of the promise of eternal life and the assurance of their own resurrection. It serves as a source of comfort and confidence, affirming the ultimate victory of God's redemptive plan.

The Ascension

• Exaltation and Glory: The ascension of Jesus into heaven marked his exaltation and glorification at the right hand of God. It affirmed his divine status and reign over all creation, signifying the completion of his earthly ministry and the beginning of his heavenly reign.

• Commissioning of the Disciples: Before ascending, Jesus commissioned his disciples to continue his mission, proclaiming the gospel to all nations and making disciples. This commissioning empowered the early Church to carry forward the message of Jesus and establish the foundation for the expansion of the Christian faith.

• Promise of Return: The ascension included the promise of Jesus' return, instilling hope in believers for the fulfillment of God's ultimate plan of redemption. It serves as a reminder of the future restoration of all things and the consummation of God's kingdom.

In essence, the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ are pivotal events that underpin the Christian faith. They represent the triumph over death, the affirmation of Jesus' divine authority, and the assurance of hope and salvation for believers. These events form the basis of Christian eschatology and the anticipation of the return of Christ, shaping the beliefs and practices of the Church throughout history.

The Commissioning of the Apostles

The commissioning of the apostles by Jesus Christ was a pivotal moment that marked the transfer of authority and responsibility to his chosen disciples. This significant event took place following the resurrection of Jesus and served as a directive for the apostles to continue his mission and spread the message of the Kingdom of God to all nations. The commissioning encompassed a mandate for the apostles to proclaim the gospel, make disciples, and serve as witnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It was a transformative charge that empowered the apostles to become the primary agents in the establishment and expansion of the early Christian Church.

Mandate for Proclamation

Jesus' commissioning of the apostles included a clear mandate to proclaim the gospel to all corners of the earth. They were tasked with sharing the message of salvation, repentance, and forgiveness of sins, inviting people to enter into a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. This proclamation was not limited by geographical or cultural boundaries, reflecting the universal scope of the gospel and the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan.

Authority to Make Disciples

In addition to proclaiming the gospel, the apostles were entrusted with the authority to make disciples of all nations. This involved not only the initial proclamation of the gospel but also the nurturing and mentoring of new believers, guiding them in the teachings of Jesus and the ways of the Kingdom. The commissioning empowered the apostles to establish communities of faith and to equip believers for a life of discipleship and service.

Role as Witnesses

The commissioning of the apostles emphasized their role as witnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. They were tasked with bearing testimony to the reality of these transformative events, providing firsthand accounts of the redemptive work of Christ. As witnesses, the apostles played a crucial role in establishing the historical and theological foundation of the Christian faith, ensuring that the message of salvation was firmly rooted in the reality of Jesus' life and ministry.

Empowerment for Ministry

Jesus' commissioning of the apostles was accompanied by the promise of divine empowerment through the Holy Spirit. This empowerment was essential for the apostles to fulfill their mission effectively, enabling them to perform signs and wonders, speak with boldness, and navigate the challenges and opposition they would encounter. The presence of the Holy Spirit ensured that the apostles were equipped with the spiritual gifts and guidance necessary to carry out their commission with confidence and effectiveness.

Continuation of Jesus' Mission

Overall, the commissioning of the apostles by Jesus Christ was a definitive moment that marked the transition from being followers to becoming leaders and ambassadors of the Christian faith. It signified the continuity of Jesus' mission through the apostles, as they were entrusted with the responsibility of carrying forward the redemptive work initiated by Jesus. The commissioning laid the groundwork for the establishment of the early Christian Church and set in motion the global spread of the gospel, shaping the course of Christian history and the expansion of the faith to diverse cultures and societies.

The Day of Pentecost and the Birth of the Church

The Day of Pentecost stands as a momentous event in the early Christian narrative, marking the birth of the Church and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. This significant occasion, which occurred fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus, brought about a transformative and empowering experience that propelled the apostles into their roles as bold proclaimers of the gospel and leaders of the burgeoning Christian community.

Descent of the Holy Spirit

On the Day of Pentecost, as the disciples were gathered together, they were suddenly filled with the Holy Spirit. This divine manifestation was accompanied by extraordinary signs, including the sound of a mighty wind and the appearance of tongues of fire resting upon each of the believers. The Holy Spirit empowered the disciples with spiritual gifts, emboldening them to speak in diverse languages and proclaim the wonders of God, drawing the attention of a diverse crowd in Jerusalem.

Proclamation of the Gospel

Filled with the Holy Spirit, the apostle Peter delivered a compelling and impassioned sermon to the gathered crowd, articulating the significance of the events unfolding before them. He boldly proclaimed the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, calling the people to repentance and faith in the Messiah. The powerful proclamation, inspired by the Holy Spirit, resulted in the conversion of thousands, as hearts were stirred and lives were transformed by the message of salvation.

Formation of the Christian Community

The Day of Pentecost marked the formation of the early Christian community, as those who responded to Peter's message were baptized, symbolizing their entrance into the body of believers. This community of faith was characterized by a shared devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. The believers demonstrated a profound sense of unity and mutual care, reflecting the transformative impact of the Holy Spirit on their lives and relationships.

Global Impact of the Gospel

The events of Pentecost had a far-reaching impact, as individuals from diverse regions and backgrounds heard the message in their own languages and were drawn to faith in Christ. The birth of the Church on Pentecost initiated a movement that transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, laying the foundation for the global spread of the gospel and the establishment of Christian communities throughout the known world.

Empowerment for Mission

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost empowered the apostles and early believers to fulfill the commission given to them by Jesus. They were emboldened to bear witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, to make disciples of all nations, and to establish communities of faith that would embody the values and teachings of the Kingdom of God. The Holy Spirit provided the necessary guidance, courage, and spiritual gifts for the Church to carry out its mission effectively.

In essence, the Day of Pentecost stands as a defining moment in the establishment of the Church, marking the infusion of divine power and the birth of a vibrant and transformative community of believers. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost set in motion the global expansion of the Christian faith, shaping the course of history and laying the groundwork for the enduring impact of the Church on the world.