How do we know that the church is a visible assembly?

The notion of the church as a visible assembly is reinforced throughout the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. Here, apostles like Paul and Barnabas visit and strengthen distinct congregations, highlighting that each church operates independently yet collectively under Christ's lordship. The plural term 'churches' is often used, indicating local congregations with their own leadership and community life. Furthermore, Christ's command to make disciples links the act of baptism directly to local church membership, affirming the church's visible and tangible character as it manifests in the lives of its members.