Tinjauan Teologis Hakekat Eksistensi Gereja Berdasarkan 1 Korintus 12:12-27 dan Implikasinya bagi Gereja Masa Kini Dalam Konteks Oikumenis

Abstract

This study examines the essence of the church's existence based on 1 Corinthians 12:12–27 and its implications for the church today in an ecumenical context. The background of this study stems from the need to understand the unity of the church amid dynamic diversity within the community of believers. The objective of the research is to elucidate the biblical understanding of the church as the body of Christ and its relevance to the church’s calling in the modern era. The research method is qualitative, employing a literature review approach and inductive-descriptive hermeneutics. The results of the study show that the true church includes every individual who is called and gathered into one fellowship of the body of Christ, is universal, and encompasses all believers from Pentecost to the second coming of Christ. Unity in diversity must be maintained so that the church can carry out its calling optimally. In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of the church will strengthen unity and enhance the church's effectiveness in carrying out its ecumenical mission in the world.