The Church, as depicted in the New Testament, is a profound and multifaceted entity, both in its identity and its intrinsic worth. It is not merely a human institution but a divine creation, established by Jesus Christ Himself. The Church is often referred to as the "Body of Christ," emphasizing its spiritual unity and the intimate relationship between Christ and His followers.

Identity of the Church

1. The Body of Christ: The Apostle Paul frequently uses the metaphor of the body to describe the Church. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, he writes, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it." This imagery underscores the interconnectedness of believers and their dependence on Christ as the head. Ephesians 1:22-23 further elaborates, "And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all."

2. The Bride of Christ: The Church is also depicted as the Bride of Christ, symbolizing a relationship of love, commitment, and purity. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, "to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless."

3. A Holy Temple: The Church is described as a spiritual temple, a dwelling place for God. In 1 Peter 2:5, believers are called "living stones" being built into a spiritual house. Similarly, Ephesians 2:21-22 states, "In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit."

4. A Chosen People: The Church is identified as a chosen and distinct people, set apart for God's purposes. 1 Peter 2:9 declares, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

Worth of the Church

1. Purchased by Christ's Blood: The worth of the Church is immeasurable, as it was purchased by the precious blood of Christ. Acts 20:28 exhorts the elders to "Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood." This sacrificial act underscores the immense value God places on the Church.

2. The Dwelling of the Holy Spirit: The Church's worth is further highlighted by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 3:16 reminds believers, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" This divine presence affirms the Church's sanctity and significance.

3. The Pillar and Foundation of Truth: The Church is entrusted with the stewardship of divine truth. 1 Timothy 3:15 describes it as "the pillar and foundation of the truth." This role as the guardian and proclaimer of God's truth elevates the Church's importance in the world.

4. An Eternal Inheritance: The Church is destined for an eternal inheritance, sharing in the glory of Christ. Romans 8:17 states, "And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This promise of eternal glory underscores the Church's ultimate worth in God's redemptive plan.

In summary, the Church's identity and worth are deeply rooted in its relationship with Christ and its divine purpose. As the Body and Bride of Christ, a holy temple, and a chosen people, the Church holds a unique and exalted position in God's plan for humanity. Its worth is immeasurable, having been purchased by Christ's blood, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and entrusted with the truth, with the promise of an eternal inheritance.