The Local Church: What It Is and Why It Matters for Every Christian

How God Ministers to His People and the World through the Local Church

The church is more than coffee with friends―it’s a meaningful gathering of Christians that involves fellowship and growing in biblical truth. Given the rise of the internet and the availability of streaming church services, many ministry leaders and church members are asking questions about the purpose and mission of the local church: What is the church? Why does the church exist? How does the church function? What is the connection between the Christian and the church?

Pastor and trusted scholar Edward Klink III addresses these questions and more with a thoughtful assessment of what the Bible has to say about God’s intention for the local church body. Klink stresses its importance as God’s way of revealing his presence, displaying his power, fulfilling his purposes, and manifesting his activity in the world. In today’s hyperindividualized culture, this book not only demonstrates why it’s vital for individuals to connect to a local church, but also reveals why it’s vital to God’s work in the world.

• Provides readers with an overview of the principle (what the church is), purpose (the church’s mission), process (the church’s function), and the need for participation in the local church
• Includes questions for review at the end of each chapter
• Examines common misconceptions about the church, specifically addressing that the purpose of church is not just for fellowship and friends

Edward W. Klink III (PhD, University of St. Andrews) is the senior pastor of Hope Evangelical Free Church in Roscoe, Illinois. He previously served as associate professor of New Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He is the author of several books, including The Local Church; Understanding Biblical Theology; and John, a volume in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament.