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As Roman Catholics continue to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, it seems appropriate to highlight the body of Christ.
While there are notable differences between Catholics (Rome), Eastern Orthodox and Protestant Christians, it remains true that all are part of the body of Christ.
The body of Christ is referenced in verses such as 1 Corinthians 12:27, which says, “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it,” and Romans 12:5, “so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
In the Scriptures, Christ is referred to as the Bridegroom and believers as His bride, symbolizing the personal and covenantal relationship between Jesus and the Church (Revelation 19:7; Ephesians 5:25–27).
As the saying tends to go, theology matters. It assuredly does, but salvation in Christ matters more. The body of Christ is anyone worldwide who believes in Jesus Christ and serves Him faithfully. A common red flag appears when a movement claims to be the only valid expression of Christianity, especially when it elevates itself above the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who alone is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
While impactful moments have divided Christians through denominational breakups (e.g., the Reformation, splits within major denominations), the reality is that the body of Christ is not confined to one section of Christianity, but is found all over the world, showcasing the power of Christ.
Such questions remain important to signify genuine Christianity and faithful churches: Is Jesus Christ viewed as the sole Savior of the world? Is salvation found only in Him? Do the Scriptures contain enough information to be saved and to convict an unregenerate heart? Is a Trinitarian (Trinity) belief system upheld? If a church practices these core teachings, they are living faithfully to Christ and the Word of God.
Historically, despite significant differences, Christians have found unity in moments of crisis. During the Crusades, it was common for the Western (Roman Catholic) Church and the Eastern (Orthodox) Church to unite in response to military aggression. Likewise, in recent years, Protestants and Catholics have united to combat issues such as abortion and threats to religious freedom.
A fair lesson teaches that while church traditions and theological differences remain important, Jesus Christ is the Lord and Savior of all Christians. He is the unifying bond of the body of Christ, who calls us to fulfill the Great Commission and ensure that all people across the globe have the opportunity to hear the Gospel and the message of salvation.
Understanding the body of Christ does allow us to prioritize our lives accordingly. We should humble our hearts to realize that our brothers and sisters in Christ supersede any self-admiration or personal priorities. Where there is a brother or sister in Christ in need, there is your Christian duty and identity.
As followers of Christ, our mission is to “maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). May we be faithful to Christ, united in truth, and ready to serve one another in love.
