The Concept of the Invisible Church vs. Visible Church

The idea of an invisible church suggests that the true church comprises only those truly saved, while the visible church includes everyone in the covenant community. This distinction raises questions about the nature of church membership and the validity of individuals within it. For instance, if the visible church contains individuals who are not saved, then it challenges the perspective that everyone within it is part of the true church. This theological viewpoint often complicates the understanding of church authority and the nature of community, as it implies that only God knows the true members of the church.