What Is the Church—and Is It Biblical?
By JC Mullinax
Main Scripture: Matthew 16:18“And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
I remember the first time I walked through the doors of Arial Baptist Church, just off the back roads of South Carolina. The building wasn’t large but Hugh in my eyes, but what it held inside was more powerful than anything the world could offer. It was there that I began to understand what the Church truly is.
It was also there, at Arial, where my wife and I stood before God and made our marriage vows. It was there we prayed, worshiped, served, and found deep roots in the Word of God under the faithful preaching of Pastor Danny Parton. And it was from that very place that BNC Ministries was birthed, out of a desire to put the Word of God into every hand and heart that would receive it.
So, when people ask me, “What is the Church?”, I don’t just give them a definition I give them a testimony. But the most important answer doesn’t come from me. It comes from the words of Jesus Christ Himself: “…upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18
The Church is God’s idea. It is Jesus’ promise. And it is biblical from beginning to end.
Here are five biblical truths that help us understand exactly what the Church is and why it matters so much.
1. The Church Was Created by Christ
Jesus made it clear: “I will build my church.” He didn’t say a government, a temple, or a tradition. He said church. It belongs to Him. It was formed by Him. It is a divine institution, not a human invention.
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11
Arial Baptist Church was not built on charisma or programs it was built with a process which pointed to Christ. And every true church must be as well.
2. The Church Is a Body—Not Just a Building
The Church is called the Body of Christ. That means it’s alive. Every member matters. From the pastor to the prayer warrior to the one who cleans the pews God has placed us all exactly where we need to be.
“Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
You don’t have to be in the spotlight to make a difference. Just be faithful.
3. The Church Is a Family of Faith
Arial Baptist Church was never just a location for us. It was and still is family. It’s where people brought meals when someone was sick, where they prayed when someone was hurting, and where they rejoiced when God answered.
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” Romans 12:10
Church is not just a Sunday thing. It’s a life together in Christ.
4. The Church Is a Training Ground for Truth
I thank God for every message I’ve heard from Pastor Danny Parton. Every sermon, every Bible study, and every altar call was a moment where the Lord spoke truth and shaped lives.
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry…” Ephesians 4:11–12
The Church exists to equip the saints and edify the body. We don’t just attend we grow, we serve, we reach.
5. The Church Is a Lighthouse in a Dark World
In a time where confusion runs rampant, the Church still holds the torch of truth. Through BNC Ministries born out of Arial we have taken that light into truck stops, cities, and across state lines. But it all started with a church that believed in the Great Commission.
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” Matthew 5:14
The Church shines not just on Sunday but every day, through every member, in every place.
So, Is the Church Biblical?
Without question yes. It is Jesus’ promise, the apostles’ example, and the Holy Spirit’s work.
Friend, let me ask you:
Are you rooted in a Bible-believing church like Arial, West End, Bible Baptist, Maranatha Baptist and Cannor Mountain? Are you serving where God has planted you? Are you part of the body or just passing by?
God wants you to be involved in the Church. He wants you to grow, serve, give, and go.
And we want to hear from you:
➡️ What church are you part of?
➡️ How did God call you into ministry?
➡️ What is your local congregation doing to shine the light?
We invite you to share your testimony, your ministry, and your church story. Post a comment, send us a message, or record a short video. Let’s celebrate what God is doing through His Church because it is still alive, still strong, and still biblical.
“Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish…” Psalm 92:13
Let’s be the Church. Let’s lift up the name of Jesus. Let’s shine the light together.
In Christ,
JC Mullinax
Lead Administrator, BNC Ministries