What does it really mean to be the Church, and why does gathering with other believers matter?

In this episode of the Core Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Ramsay Smith and Pastor Tyler Perrott to unpack the doctrine of the Church. Together, they unpack what the Church is according to Scripture and why it is far more than a building, a service, or a weekly event. The Church is God's people—gathered, equipped, and sent out to make disciples and glorify Christ.

This conversation explores the beauty of biblical community and God's design for His people to grow together. From the early Church in Acts to the local church today, Luke, Ramsay, and Tyler discuss why believers need one another and how God uses the Church to shape us into the image of Jesus.

You'll hear personal stories of experiencing church family, practical insights into discipleship and spiritual growth, and encouragement for anyone wrestling with church hurt, isolation, or questions about belonging.

Whether you've been part of a church for years, are new to the Christian faith, or are trying to understand God's purpose for His people, this episode will help you see the Church as Jesus intended it.

In this episode

• What the Church actually is according to Scripture
• How the Church functions as the body of Christ
• Why gathering with other believers is essential for spiritual growth
• The difference between the universal Church and the local church
• What Acts 2 teaches about biblical community and discipleship
• How spiritual gifts are meant to strengthen the body of Christ
• Why believers need both personal faith and participation in the Church
• A biblical response to church hurt and the temptation toward isolation
• How generosity, mission, and disciple-making are central to the Church's purpose
• Personal prayers and hopes for the future of Chapel Pointe

Submit a Question
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About this Podcast
This podcast is an 11-week companion to the Core Series at Chapel Pointe Church. Through deep theological conversations with our pastors, our goal is to help you build a deeper understanding of the core truths of Christianity and apply them to your life.

From the Bible and Jesus to salvation and the church, our prayer is that you don't just grow in knowledge but that you gain a deeper appreciation for the love, grace, and movement of God in your life. Visit chapel-pointe.org/core-series for a full list of resources, including sermons, discussion guides, and more.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome & Introduction

02:43 What Is the Church?

06:54 The Purpose and Practices of the Church

12:01 Universal Church and Local Church

24:41 Church as a Family

27:41 The Mission of the Church

30:10 Generosity of the Church

33:20 Jesus and the Church

40:00 Our Prayer for the Church

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

Use your gifts to serve the body of Christ. Take the Spiritual Gifts Assessment here: https://www.chapel-pointe.org/spiritual-gifts/
Engage in biblical community at Chapel Pointe: https://www.chapel-pointe.org/groups/