Doktrin Gereja (Eklesiologi) Sebagai Ajaran dari Cabang Teologi Sistematika

Church Doctrine (Ecclesiology) as a Teaching within the Branch of Systematic Theology

Abstract

The doctrine of the church, or ecclesiology, is a fundamental component of systematic theology that elucidates the identity, nature, attributes, and calling of the church within the lives of Christians. An understanding of ecclesiology is crucial in the face of contemporary challenges that threaten to reduce the church to a mere religious institution or a set of ritualistic activities. This study aims to analyze the biblical foundations, nature, attributes, functions, and relevance of the doctrine of the church in contemporary Christian life. Employing a qualitative approach, this research utilizes a library-based study method. Data were gathered through an examination of biblical texts, systematic theology textbooks, and relevant scholarly articles, which were then analyzed using qualitative content analysis and systematic theological interpretation. The findings indicate that the church is a fellowship of the people of God—called, sanctified, and sent by Christ rather than simply a building or an organization. The nature of the church is reflected through metaphors such as the people of God, the body of Christ, the bride of Christ, God’s building, and the pillar and foundation of the truth. The attributes of the church being one, holy, catholic (universal), and apostolic carry implications for unity, holiness, inclusivity, and doctrinal faithfulness. The study concludes that ecclesiology must be integrated with the proclamation of the Gospel, faith education, fellowship, and social ministry. The contribution of this research lies in its conceptual synthesis, which connects the biblical foundations and the doctrine of the church with the practical responsibilities of the contemporary Christian community.