Faith For U Today

FFUT Theology for Everyday Life – ep.05 – The Doctrine of the Church

In this week’s episode of the Faith For U Today Podcast, Sawyer and Lauren dive into one of the most important—and most misunderstood—teachings in Christianity: the doctrine of the church.For many believers, “church” brings up mixed emotions. Some think of family, worship, and community. Others think of hurt, confusion, or division. And still others see church as an optional part of their faith—helpful maybe, but not essential.But historically, biblically, and theologically, the church has always been central to the life of God’s people.In this episode, Sawyer and Lauren help us understand why—breaking down the doctrine in a way that is simple, clear, and deeply encouraging.

The Doctrine of the Church: Why It Matters More Than We Think

Faith For U Today – Podcast Episode Article

 

A Brief Historical Background: Where Did the Church Come From?

The story of the church begins long before any building, denomination, or Sunday service. It starts with Jesus Himself.

After His resurrection, Jesus commissioned His disciples to preach the gospel, baptize new believers, and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18–20). This moment—the Great Commission—is the birth of the Christian church.

By the time we reach the Book of Acts, the church is exploding with life and growth. Believers gathered regularly for:

  • teaching (Acts 2:42)
  • prayer
  • breaking of bread
  • caring for one another
  • sharing resources
  • proclaiming Christ

 

This community became known as the ekklesia, the Greek word for “assembly” or “called-out ones.” The church was never meant to be merely a building—it was a people called out by God for His mission.

Throughout history, the church formed creeds, councils, and doctrines to protect the truth of Scripture. From the early church fathers to the Reformation to modern evangelical movements, the church has continued to grow, refine, and articulate its identity in the world.

 

What Is the Doctrine of the Church?

Sawyer and Lauren broke the doctrine down into key truths that help us understand what the church is and why it exists.

 

1. The Church Is the People of God

The church is not a location—it’s a community redeemed by Christ. Lauren reminded listeners that when we say “church,” we’re talking about believers, not buildings.

 

 

 

2. The Church Is the Body of Christ

Sawyer explained how Paul uses this image to show our unity and diversity. Different gifts, different roles—but one body with Christ as the Head (1 Corinthians 12).

 

3. The Church Is the Temple of the Holy Spirit

We are God’s dwelling place on earth (Ephesians 2:22). The Spirit is actively shaping, guiding, and transforming the church.

 

4. The Church Is Called to Worship, Discipleship, Fellowship, and Mission

Lauren highlighted these four pillars as the heartbeat of the Christian community:

  • Worship — honoring God together
  • Discipleship — growing in Christlikeness
  • Fellowship — loving and supporting one another
  • Mission — proclaiming the gospel to the world

 

5. The Universal and Local Church

Sawyer explained the important distinction:

  • The universal church = all believers throughout history
  • The local church = your local gathering where faith is lived out

 

You can love Jesus and still struggle with the church. But you can’t follow Jesus apart from His people—because He designed us to grow together.

 

Why This Doctrine Matters Today

For many Christians, the church has become optional or simply “content we consume.” But the doctrine of the church reminds us:

  • We were created for community
  • We cannot grow in isolation
  • The local church is God’s primary tool for spiritual formation
  • The global church carries God’s mission to the world

 

Lauren shared a powerful moment in the episode: “The church may be messy, but it’s still God’s family—and He hasn’t given up on us.” That honesty resonates with so many listeners who love Jesus but have experienced church hurt.

Sawyer added that the doctrine doesn’t downplay the brokenness—it points us to the beauty of God’s design and the hope of what the church can be when Christ is at the center.

 

What This Means for Us as Followers of Christ

The doctrine of the church is an invitation:

  • to belong
  • to grow
  • to serve
  • to love
  • to forgive
  • to participate in God’s mission


It reminds us that Christianity is not a solo journey.
It is a shared life—a family shaped by grace and united by the Spirit.

The church isn’t perfect.
It isn’t always easy.
But it is God’s idea—and it still matters more than ever.

 

 

Listen to the Full Episode

If you haven’t heard Sawyer and Lauren’s conversation yet, make sure to listen today. It’s simple, practical, and full of truth that can strengthen your walk with Christ.

👉 Listen on Spotify: FFUT Theology for Everyday Life Podcast

👉 New episodes every week

 

Listen Now

 

Stay Connected and Keep Growing

If the episode helped you understand the doctrine of the church more clearly, share it with a friend, leave a comment, or subscribe to stay updated.

Stay faithful, stay fruitful, and keep walking with Christ.

 

Leave a Reply

Share:

More Posts

Subscribe