The Churches of Christ

The Church’s Work

Evangelism

The primary work of the church is to share the gospel of Christ with the world. Jesus commanded His followers to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).

Evangelism includes:

  • Teaching the lost
  • Spreading the message of salvation
  • Supporting mission efforts
  • Living as examples of Christ

The early church was devoted to proclaiming the Word (Acts 5:42; Acts 8:4). Every Christian has a role in helping others come to know the truth.

Evangelism is not optional—it is the heartbeat of the church’s mission.

Edification

Edification means building up the church spiritually. The New Testament teaches that Christians are to encourage, strengthen, and teach one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Edification includes:

  • Bible study
  • Worship
  • Encouragement
  • Spiritual growth
  • Mutual support

The church grows when its members grow. Edification helps Christians remain faithful, mature in Christ, and prepared for every good work (Ephesians 4:11–16).

Benevolence

The church is called collectively and individually to care for those in need. The early church provided for widows, the poor, and those facing hardship (Acts 6:1–3; Acts 11:27–30).

Benevolence includes:

  • Helping members in distress
  • Supporting members facing illness, loss, or hardship
  • Individually each Christian exercises compassion to all people as opportunity arises (Galatians 6:10)

Benevolence is the expression of Christian love, offered in the spirit of Christ, to relieve suffering and honor God.

The Mission of the Church

The New Testament reveals a clear and focused mission for the church:

  1. Evangelism — preaching the gospel
  2. Edification — strengthening the saved
  3. Benevolence — caring for those in need

This mission is spiritual, not political or social. The church is not a civil institution, a community organization, or a cultural movement. Its purpose is to glorify God and lead souls to Christ.

The mission of the church reflects the heart of Christ Himself—seeking the lost, nurturing the faithful, and showing compassion to those who suffer.