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Level of Education

Undergraduate

Abstract

The ekklesia is often translated as “church” and divided between a sacred and secular definition. However, this translation and separation loses the significance and nuances of the term. The etymology of the word renders the ekklesia as an assembly of those who have been called out. The Greek usage of the word presents the ekkelsia as a political phenomenon in which the ekkelsia is an assembly that gathers to benefit the common good of the entire polis. Biblically, the ekkelsia is often understood as an assembly of those who have been called by God and has a spiritual, relational, geographical, and universal existence. By evaluating the bibilcal usage of ekklesia within its Greek context, it becomes apparent that the biblical ekklesia is similarly for the purpose of seeking the common good. Unlike the Greek ekklesia, which seeks to benefit the polis in order to create a beneficial society, the biblical ekklesia is intended to seek the common good in order that mankind might be saved through Jesus Christ. For Christians, expanding the definition of ekklesia based on wider contexts means that first, believers must respond to the call to be a part of the ekklesia and be an active member of the assembly. Secondly, believers must seek the common good of those within and outside of the ekklesia through fulfilling the great commission by fulfilling the greatest commandment. This requires involvement with the rest of the world, rather than simply a weekly gathering.

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