This might seem a strange name for a church, but it describes the closest possible relationship. All who trust in Jesus are not just part of the church; we are the church. It includes every believer from Pentecost until Christ returns. He loves the church, died for it, and will one day return to take it to Himself forever (Ephesians 5:25–32; Revelation 19:7). That’s how deeply we matter to Him. When Saul persecuted believers, Jesus said, Why are you persecuting me? (Acts 9:4), showing that harm done to His people is felt by Him personally. This is how precious we are to Christ. One day, a countless multitude from every nation will stand before Him in worship (Revelation 7:9). Until then, every gathering of a Church of God is a small but beautiful glimpse, the local expression, of the glorious church Christ calls His own.
