What is the definition of ekklesia?

Answer

Understanding the definition of ekklesia (and its alternative spelling ecclesia) is a crucial aspect of comprehending the church. Ekklesia is a Greek term that means “a called-out assembly or congregation.” It is commonly rendered as “church” in the New Testament. For instance, Acts 11:26 mentions that “Barnabas and Saul met with the church [ekklesia]” in Antioch. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 15:9, Paul acknowledges that he had persecuted the church [ekklesia] of God. The concept of a “called-out assembly” refers to a congregation of believers whom God has summoned out of the world and “into His wonderful light” «But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: », (1 Peter 2:9). The Greek ekklesia serves as the foundation for English terms like ecclesiastical (“related to the church”) and ecclesiology (“the study of doctrine concerning the church”).

The term was also used in the New Testament to describe any gathering of people. In his speech to the Sanhedrin, Stephen refers to the people of Israel as “the assembly [ekklesia] in the wilderness” «This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us: », (Acts 7:38). Furthermore, in Acts 19:39, ekklesia denotes a gathering of citizens to discuss legal matters. Nevertheless, in most contexts, ekklesia is used to denote the individuals who form the New Testament church.

It is important that the church today understands the definition of ekklesia. The church needs to see itself as being “called out” by God. If the church wants to make a difference in the world, it must be different from the world. Salt is different from the food it flavors. God has called the church to be separate from sin «because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. », (1 Peter 1:16), to embrace fellowship with other believers «And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. », (Acts 2:42), and to be a light to the world «Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. », (Matthew 5:14). God has graciously called us unto Himself: “‘Come out from them and be separate,’ says the Lord. ‘Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you’” «Wherefore Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch not the unclean thing; And I will receive you, », (2 Corinthians 6:17).