Reformed Forum What Is the Church? Part 2 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 2)
Dec 8, 2025
James Cassidy, a Reformed theologian and instructor, delves into profound ecclesiastical concepts in this insightful discussion. He distinguishes between the Church Militant, engaged in spiritual warfare, and the Church Triumphant, celebrating ultimate victory. Cassidy contrasts the church as both an organization and an organism, advocating for a balanced view. He addresses the challenges of ecumenicity, emphasizing the need for doctrinal unity. Finally, he defines the holiness of the Church, stressing the importance of assessing a church's purity through its doctrine and worship practices.
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Militant Now, Triumphant Later
- The church militant describes believers on earth engaged in spiritual warfare against world, flesh, and devil.
- True victory awaits the church triumphant after resurrection and final judgment.
Church As Both Structure And Living Body
- Ecclesiology that treats the church only as organization or only as organism is incomplete.
- Scripture shows the church is both an organized structure and a living body given offices for Christ to use.
Maintain Ordered Church Offices
- Use ordained offices and formal structure to steward Christ's gifts and bring life to the body.
- Appoint elders and maintain ordered ministry as Scripture prescribes (e.g., Titus 1:5; Ephesians 4).