Ques. 87. What is the church, and can the term be used for a building? A. B.
Ans. The church is the body of Christ, (Eph, 1:22-23). This was formed by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. (Acts 2:1 Cor. 12:13). It includes only those who are saved.
The church as a profession or light bearer on earth, is also called The House of God (1 Tim. 3:15), and includes all baptized persons.
If we take away the word “church” and substitute the word “assembly” in every place where it is used in Scripture, we will get the right thought.
There is one exception, in Acts 19:37, which in the original is “idol temples.” It is never used otherwise of a building on earth.
Ques. 88. Does John 14:2 infer that there is a different mansion for each saved person? E. M.
Ans. This passage would not occupy us with thoughts of a grand mansion. It is supposed to be an allusion to the many chambers of the priests in the temple. (Ezek. 40). We are to see in it the love of Christ that has prepared a place with Himself for us. It has no thought of distance or living alone, but of nearness and sweet fellowship in His blest company. He is in the Father’s house. We are the sons (Rom. 8:29); children in the Father’s house; children of the same Father. This is why He says: “In My Father’s house”. We are in the company of the Father and the Son.
“ The Father’s house, the Father’s heart,
All that the Son is given
Made ours-the objects of His love-
And He, our joy in heaven.”
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