Moral and Spiritual Guidance:

The church is often seen as a source of moral and spiritual guidance, providing individuals with a
framework for ethical living and a sense of purpose.

Community Building:
Churches serve as community hubs, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among them
members. They provide a space for social interaction, support networks, and a sense of community.

Charitable Activities:
Many churches are actively involved in charitable activities, including providing assistance to those in
need, supporting local communities, and contributing to humanitarian efforts.

Education and Literacy:

Historically, churches have played a role in the establishment and support of educational institutions,
contributing to literacy and knowledge dissemination.

Cultural Preservation:
Churches often contribute to the preservation of cultural traditions and values, particularly through the
celebration of religious festivals and ceremonies.

Promotion of Family Values:

Churches often emphasize the importance of family values, promoting strong family bonds, and
providing support to families facing challenges.

Social Justice Advocacy:

Some churches engage in social justice advocacy, working towards addressing societal issues such as
poverty, discrimination, and inequality.

Spiritual Support:
Churches provide a place for worship, prayer, and spiritual reflection, offering comfort and guidance
during difficult times and celebrating moments of joy.

Crisis Response and Counseling:

Churches may offer counseling services and support during crises, providing individuals with a place to
seek guidance and solace.

Encouraging Volunteerism:
Churches often encourage their members to engage in volunteer activities, contributing to the well-
being of the broader community.

It's important to note that the positive impact of the church in society can vary, and individual
perspectives may differ based on cultural, religious, and personal beliefs. If you are specifically
interested in Bro. Roman P. Jacinto III's perspectives on this topic, it would be best to refer
to thespecific work or contact the author directly for more nuanced insights.

The Role of the Church in Society

The calling of God on the individual believer and the church as a community is one of
impact. In fact, the Bible refers to followers of Christ as salt and light (Matt. 5:13-16), ones
who influence others and provide pathways to wholeness and holiness by showing and
sharing the unconditional love of God and commitment to his ways. Jesus said this love
would be a key component of his church and the attractional pull of others toward faith in
God; love is the ultimate meter of true discipleship and the clear marker Jesus pointed to
when he stated, “by this all people will know that you are my disciples,” (John 13:35, ESV).
The church as a community proclaims the goodness of God and provides clear directions
toward living a life of fulfillment and connection. As a clear reminder, it is a restorative
agent in reclaiming the image of God in his crowning creation-humanity.

The Work of the Church as Community

We become our best selves in the presence of others and in accepting ourselves and each
other, we encounter God’s love and heal. In this cohort of connection, we are informed,
reformed and equipped to walk out purpose and destiny, both individually and
communally. This engagement empowers and enables individuals to participate in
meaningful service to others and intentional kingdom contribution. It is in this place of
connection that next generations receive education as life in Christ is modeled, future
leaders emerge and the supernatural presence of God is ignited.2 The church as a
community provides something both profound and powerful. To summarize journalist and
activist Dorothy Day regarding community, we can’t love God until we love and learn to
be with one another. Only then will we truly understand that the cure to loneliness is the
love that comes along with community and companionship.3 In this relationship we can
inspire, encourage, strengthen and help one another. It is the place where identity is
forged and purpose engaged. It impacts every part of our existence and enables the
blessing of God to be released (Psalm 133:1-3).

How to Strengthen Community

Healthy community is foundational to spiritual and emotional formation and the garden
narrative in the first two chapters of Genesis provided a clear picture of God’s desire for
us to be in relationship with him and each other. However, there are hindrances. Pain,
suffering and offense are undeniable attributes of the human journey and no one is
immune to hurt. The struggle with flesh is real and often wrestled out with others. With
that in mind, it is essential the church as a community practice the biblical principles of
forgiveness, repentance and reconciliation while cultivating a healthy crop of spiritual
fruit (Gal 5). Owning our mistakes, forgiving the failings of others and restoring
relationship disarms the enemy of our souls and disables the potential destruction of
community.
When these attributes are engaged, next level relationship is enabled and encouraged.
What Is the Importance of Church as Community?
There is no doubt that we live in uncertain times and the opportunity for distraction,
offense and isolation abound. However, that is not God’s desire, nor does it benefit
humanity in any way. It has been said that the best offense is a good defense and the
church as a community is the best defense against the struggles that wage war on the
soul of humanity. Christian community is the biblical prescription for the ailments of
modern society and the impetus for human flourishing. In connection with each other,
we have opportunity to best express God’s love, empower each other to fulfill destiny
and equip one another to withstand adversity. The church as a community is good armor
against every enemy and good soil for transformative growth. If you recognize the role of
the church in society and strive to promote human flourishing, consider earning your
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry degree at GCU, where you will take courses that can
teach you the foundation of building community in the church. Fill out the form on this
page to learn more.

https://www.gcu.edu/blog/theology-ministry/importance-church-community