The document explores the concept of the church, emphasizing that it is not merely a physical building or an assembly of people in pews, but rather a community of believers in Jesus Christ. It highlights various aspects of the church, such as being the body of Christ, a community of faith, and having both universal and local expressions. The church's mission is to glorify God, spread the Gospel, administer sacraments, and serve others through acts of love and justice. Different denominations emphasize different aspects of the church, but all agree that it is fundamentally a spiritual and relational entity centered on Christ.
The document further argues that the church is a practical device that enables believers to fulfill their purpose and acquire their true identity through work. It posits that the church builds itself by binding believers together, creating work for its members, and generating value. The church is seen as a technology of separation, helping Christians to live under a new master and a new covenant, separate from the fallen world. Ultimately, the church works as it creates work for its members, fostering faith and cooperation among them, and serving as a measure of the works they do.
