Ekklesia

Q: Which Greek word, meaning "assembly" or "called-out ones," is translated as "church" in English?

A: Ekklesia (ἐκκλησία)

Tidbit: This word appears in Matthew 16:18 when Jesus says, "I will build my church."

Etymology and Literal Meaning: Ekklesia comes from two Greek words: "ek" (out of) and "kaleo" (to call). Literally, it means "the called-out ones" or "an assembly of called-out ones."

Pre-Christian Usage: In ancient Greek city-states, ekklesia referred to an assembly of citizens called out from their homes to conduct public affairs.

It was used in the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Old Testament) to translate the Hebrew word "qahal," which meant "assembly" or "congregation."

New Testament Usage: In the New Testament, ekklesia is used 114 times.

It's typically translated as "church" in English, but it's important to note that it doesn't refer to a building or institution in its original context.

Matthew 16:18 is a key verse where Jesus uses this term: "And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church (ekklesia)."

Theological Significance:

1) The use of ekklesia emphasizes that the church is not primarily a place or an organization, but a community of people.

2) Highlights that believers are "called out" from the world to be part of God's community.

3) Aligns with other New Testament teachings about believers being "in the world but not of the world" (John 17:14-16).

Local and Universal Church: Ekklesia is used to refer both to local congregations (e.g., "the church in Corinth" - 1 Corinthians 1:2) and to the universal body of believers (e.g., Ephesians 1:22-23).

Modern Application: Understanding ekklesia as "called-out ones" can shape how believers view their role in society and their relationship to the broader culture.

Reference: Giles, K. (1995). The Church in the New Testament. Baker Academic.