Body of Christ: Why the Church is Called Body of the Christ? What Act of Apostles Say?
Many of us are aware of Christianity and always find it very interesting. But do you know everything about Jesus Christ? Do you know what Acts of Apostles mean?
Have you ever heard about The Body of Christ? Do you know what it actually means?
Here's a small article which informs you about the basis of the body of Christ, it's origins, it's beliefs, etc. I hope this article would be useful for anyone who wishes to learn about Christianity.
Body of the Christ
According to Christian theology, the Body of Christ has two main but separate meanings. One of the meanings shows the Body of Jesus Christ post-resurrection. The other meaning is the words of Jesus Christ, "This is my body" over the bread at the Jewish feast celebration of Passover (The last supper). The Body of Christ is also considered as a universal Church.
Jesus has associated himself with the poor, so if one wishes to be closer to him, he/she should do the same. This point is made manifest in Pope Francis's words, "If we truly wish to see Jesus Christ, we need to touch the body of the poor who are suffering, and the Body of The Christ can be seen through charity and sharing."
Christians have been understood differently over the term 'The body of the Christ' developed in Christian theology of Eucharist and used by Christ at the Last Supper.
How did it start?
Before moving into the start of The Body of Christ, let us understand what does Acts in the Bible mean. The Acts of the Apostles is the fifth book of The New Testament of the Christian Church. In that, the Acts are narrated in the Greek language, which is presumed to be written by Evangelist Luke.
Also Read: What was Jesus really Look Like: Hidden Mystery of Jesus’ Appearances that may Leave You Perplexed
Now, as we are clear about the Acts, let us move to the time when "The Body of Christ" actually came into existence. However, no one is sure when it will happen. Bullinger believes it began at Act 28, while Sam says it started at Act 9, and O'Hair says Act 18. While some who have no idea about this act believe that it began at the time when Jesus Christ was recurring to the cross.
It is said that until God initiated the Dispensation of Grace. And revealed its message to the Apostle Paul, the Body of Christ itself remained a secret hidden from man, considering this as the practical beginning of the Church, which is Christ's Body.
Unique Beliefs
According to the very first meaning, it is believed that Jesus came on earth as a human being. He was born from a woman's womb but was conceived by the Holy Spirit, making him sinless. It is believed that he was entirely man and fully God. To save mankind from their sins, Jesus willingly sacrificed himself in the cross and then was raised from the dead.
The people who believed in the second meaning that is his words at the last supper when he took the bread. He gave thanks and broke it, giving it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me," says that Christ exists in bread and eating this beard unites them with The Christ. This is believed to be the most sacred moment of worship.
According to the third meaning, the church is the body of Christ. It's believed that when the Christian church officially came into existence on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles gathered in a room in Jerusalem. 3,000 people were baptized and became followers of Jesus after the apostle Peter preached about God's plan of salvation.
Where is it Still Practiced?
Christianity is considered the most dominant religion in the world, even though it adheres to the west. Nonetheless, it is practiced in Europe, Russia, North America, South America, the Philippines, East Timor, Southern Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, Oceania, etc.
Nearly one-third of the US still believes that the bread and wine used during the late supper are considered as the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Each person who believes in any one of the meanings out of the three practices is said to be Christian.
Conclusion
Here we end our search about the Body of Christ. These were the three meanings, along with their beliefs and practices. Hoping the ones who didn't know, your questions are answered.
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