Visible Church: A Beacon of Hope

The church is intended to be a visible and recognizable entity, signifying the presence of God and making it clear where the true church, founded by Jesus Christ, exists. It is compared to a city on a hill and a mustard seed that grows into a large tree, emphasizing that it is not hidden but rather apparent to all. This clarity provides relief from the need to search for the true church. Furthermore, the church is made up of imperfect individuals, including those with flaws and sins, which serves as a reminder of the grace offered by Jesus. It encourages reflection on one's own faithfulness, referencing St. Paul's warning about the Israelites who, despite being God's chosen people, perished in the wilderness due to rebellion.