Faith
Churches of Christ Debate Biblical Naming and Identity
Faith Facts
- The descriptor “churches of Christ” is rooted in Romans 16:16, where Paul writes that the churches of Christ send greetings.
- The American Restoration Movement promoted biblical identifiers to reject sectarian labels and emphasize “Christians only.”
- Supporters say using the Lord’s name reflects the truth that He built and bought the church.
The names believers use to describe their congregations should reflect the sacred relationship between Jesus Christ and His people. Many faithful ministers view “Church of Christ” as a declaration of divine ownership rather than a corporate brand or sectarian label.
Scripture offers several descriptors for the body of believers, reminding Christians that the church belongs to the Lord. Biblical identifiers can help preserve unity and keep attention on the cross rather than on human traditions or denominations.
“The church, it belongs to Christ. Therefore it should wear only names that glorify Christ, reflect Scripture and certainly preserve our unity.”
Ultimately, a name should serve as a relational statement that honors the Savior. By adhering to New Testament patterns in practice and description, believers can better testify that they are the called-out assembly belonging to Jesus.