What is the meaning of the Church according to the Bible?

The Church, as described in the New Testament, encompasses all believers who are redeemed by Christ and gathered for worship and fellowship. Paul refers to it as the 'body of Christ' (1 Corinthians 12:27) and emphasizes that it is spiritually alive only because of Christ's work. The Church functions not merely as a building or organization but as a living entity that reflects God's grace and truth in every aspect of life. In Ephesians 2:19-22, Paul illustrates that believers are members of God’s household, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone. Understanding the Church's nature fosters unity among believers and recognition of our shared mission to glorify God through the Gospel.