The conduct of believers within the church is a significant theme throughout the New Testament, reflecting the call to live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. The church, as the body of Christ, is called to exemplify holiness, unity, and love, serving as a witness to the world of God's transformative power.

Holiness and Purity

The New Testament emphasizes the need for holiness and purity among believers. In 1 Peter 1:15-16 , it is written, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness is foundational for the conduct of the church, as believers are set apart for God's purposes. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 5:6-7 , warns against tolerating sin within the church, using the metaphor of leaven: "Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole batch of dough? Get rid of the old leaven, that you may be a new unleavened batch, as you really are."

Unity and Peace

Unity is another critical aspect of conduct within the church. In Ephesians 4:3 , Paul urges believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." The church is called to be one body, united in faith and purpose. Discord and division are contrary to the nature of the church and hinder its mission. In 1 Corinthians 1:10 , Paul appeals to the church in Corinth, "I urge you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction."

Love and Service

Love is the hallmark of Christian conduct, as Jesus Himself commanded in John 13:34-35 : "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." This love is not merely an emotion but is demonstrated through acts of service and selflessness. Galatians 5:13 exhorts believers, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love."

Order and Discipline

Order and discipline are also essential for maintaining proper conduct in the church. Paul provides instructions for orderly worship and the exercise of spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 14:40 : "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." Church leaders are tasked with maintaining discipline and addressing issues of misconduct, as seen in 1 Timothy 5:20 : "But those who persist in sin should be rebuked in front of everyone, so that the others will stand in fear."

Witness to the World

The conduct of the church serves as a testimony to the world. In Matthew 5:16 , Jesus instructs, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The behavior of believers should reflect the character of Christ, drawing others to the truth of the gospel. In Philippians 2:14-15 , Paul encourages the church to "do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world."

The importance of conduct in the church cannot be overstated, as it impacts the church's internal health and its external witness. Believers are called to live in a way that honors God, edifies the body, and attracts others to the faith.