Unveiling the Origins and Interpretations of Church and Christian in Religious Texts

A comprehensive analysis of the terminology and historical context of the terms Church and Christian in the Book of Mormon and the Bible, with a focus on their relevance to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the controversies surrounding their interpretation.

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Introduction

Paul Gee argues that there appears to be a contradiction between Alma 46:14-15 and the Bible regarding the use of the terms "Church" and "Christian." He claims that the term "Church" was not used until Acts 2:47 and "Christian" was not used until Acts 11:26. According to Strong's Concordance, the term "Church" means "an assembly" or "a congregation," while the term "Christian" refers to those who follow Christ.

If someone were to search the Old Testament Bible for the word “Church” or “Christian” they would find absolutely nothing. This is because during the times of the Old Covenant, the laws of Moses prevailed and there was no church on earth. However, if you were to look at the same time frames in the Book of Mormon, the same words are present. It doesn’t just exist in one chapter but many. Today we will look at Alma, chapter 46, where it makes mention of both “Church” and “Christian”. This is supposedly in 73 BC. The verses read, “for thus were all the true believers of Christ, who belonged to the church of God, called by those who did not belong to the church. And those who did belong to the church were faithful; yea, all those who were true believers in Christ took upon them, gladly, the name of Christ, or Christians as they were called, because of their belief in Christ who should come.” (Alma 46:14,15) Can anybody spot an issue here? This time frame is in the Old Covenant, so what happened here does not fit. 

The first mention of the word “Church” comes from Jesus. He mentioned how it would be formed after the Holy Spirit comes. It is written, “and I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18) Jesus used his disciples to help usher in His church on earth. This happened when the Holy Spirit came during the day of Pentecost. These believers came “praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” (Acts 2:47) Notice how they were added to Christ’s church. Speaking of these people, they were called Christians. “And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” (Acts 11:26) The church was formed, and people were called Christians after Jesus’s ascension into heaven.

Addressing this alleged contradiction is crucial for understanding the Book of Mormon. Paul contends that the term "Church" was not used in the Old Testament, but the Greek term "Eccklesia" was used in the Septuagint for the Hebrew word "qahal," which means "multitude," "company," "congregation," or "assembly." This connection sheds light on the significance of these terms.

Understanding the Terminology

The term "Church" holds significant theological and doctrinal implications, representing the collective body of believers in Jesus Christ rather than merely a physical edifice. This concept transcends the confines of a physical structure, embodying a spiritual community bound by shared faith and devotion. This interpretation of the term "Church" is evident across various religious texts, including the New Testament and the Book of Mormon, each offering unique insights into the nature and purpose of the church. For instance, the Book of Mormon consistently employs the terms "Christians" and "saints" to denote followers of Christ, underscoring a distinctive portrayal of the religious community.

Furthermore, the consistent usage of the term "saints" in the scriptures, as observed in the Book of Mormon, aligns with the portrayal of church members as "saints" by the prophets and apostles in the Bible. This alignment underscores the shared essence of dedication and holiness attributed to followers of Christ across these religious texts, despite the nuanced differences in terminology.

Additionally, the revealed name of the restored church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is seen as consistent with the teachings of the Bible, reinforcing the naming and identity of the church within its historical and religious context. This alignment not only reaffirms the religious and doctrinal aspects of the term "Christian" but also provides insights into the evolution and preservation of religious identity and terminology over time.

Analysis of Alma 46:14-15

Alma 46:14-15 holds significant relevance in understanding the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in the context of the Book of Mormon. It emphasizes the importance of faithful members of the church and highlights how true believers in Christ willingly embraced the name of Christ, identifying themselves as Christians. This demonstrates a clear association between the term "Christian" and the followers of Christ in the Book of Mormon, shedding light on the early religious identity and practices of believers in 73 BC.

When comparing the usage of the terms "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament, an intriguing contrast emerges. While the Old Testament Bible does not mention these terms, the Book of Mormon introduces them in Alma, chapter 46, further emphasizing the unique interpretation and portrayal of religious concepts in each text. This discrepancy prompts an exploration of the historical and cultural contexts that influenced the usage and understanding of these terms in their respective religious narratives.

Furthermore, the alignment of the revealed name of the restored church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with the teachings of the Bible and the consistent use of the term "saint" in the scriptures, underscores the theological and historical continuity between the Book of Mormon and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This alignment serves to support the teachings and beliefs of the church, offering a basis for the naming and identity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints within its historical and religious context.

Moreover, Acts 11:26 is referenced in connection to Alma 46:14-15, providing a broader contextual framework for understanding the significance of this verse in relation to the early Christian community in the Book of Mormon. This intertextual reference invites a deeper exploration of the historical and doctrinal connections between the Book of Mormon and the New Testament, shedding light on the enduring theological themes and narratives that transcend individual religious texts.

Greek and Hebrew Terms for "Assembly"

The Greek term "Ekklesia," ( ἐκκλησία, ας, ἡ), and our English word "church" derived from the Greek word κυριακός (kuriakos) meaning "the called-out assembly," holds profound religious and historical significance within the context of the New Testament. It is employed to denote the community of believers, underscoring their collective purpose and distinct identity within the Christian faith. This portrayal reflects a spiritual assembly united in their commitment to Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Gospel.

Moreover, the Septuagint, a pivotal Greek translation of the Old Testament, utilizes "Ekklesia" as the equivalent of the Hebrew term "qahal," (קָהָל), signifying a congregation or assembly of individuals. This linguistic correlation underscores the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the interconnectedness of the covenant people across different historical and cultural contexts. The usage of "Ekklesia" and "qahal" underscores the enduring nature of the assembly of believers throughout scriptural narratives, emphasizing their shared heritage and spiritual lineage.

Furthermore, the depiction of believers as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation in both the Old and New Testaments reinforces the profound theological significance of the assembly of followers of Jesus Christ. This portrayal signifies the collective identity and purpose of the Church, transcending temporal and cultural boundaries to exemplify the unifying power of faith and devotion.

In addition to the Greek and Hebrew terms, the comparison of "Ekklesia" and "qahal" prompts an examination of the linguistic and cultural influences that shaped the interpretation and understanding of the assembly of believers in different historical and religious contexts. This comparative analysis offers a nuanced exploration of the theological and historical implications of these terms, contributing to a richer understanding of the continuity and diversity of religious language and symbolism across scriptural narratives.

Contradictions and Discrepancies

The discrepancy between the absence of the words "Church" or "Christian" in the Old Testament Bible and their mention in the Book of Mormon prompts a critical examination of the consistency and interpretation of these terms in different religious texts. While the Old Testament does not explicitly use these terms, the Book of Mormon introduces them, leading to contrasting portrayals of the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in these scriptures.

Furthermore, the criticisms and prayers for Mormons to acknowledge the truth in the Bible about the formation of the church and being called Christians highlight the divergent perspectives and controversies surrounding the interpretation of these terms. This critical discourse emphasizes the varying understandings and debates regarding the historical and doctrinal significance of "Church" and "Christian" in religious texts, contributing to a nuanced analysis of their theological implications.

Moreover, the examination of potential contradictions extends to the broader scholarly discourse surrounding the portrayal of religious concepts in different scriptures. For instance, the criticisms and controversies surrounding the interpretation of "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon and the Bible have sparked scholarly debates, leading to a deeper exploration of the historical, linguistic, and doctrinal factors that shape these divergent portrayals. This critical analysis offers valuable insights into the complexities and nuances of religious terminology and its implications for the understanding of faith and community within various religious traditions.

Historical Context of the Term "Christian"

Furthermore, the evolution of the term "Christian" over time has been influenced by various societal, cultural, and religious factors. As the Christian community grew and established itself, the term underwent a transformation from a derogatory label to a symbol of identity and unity among believers. The evolving usage of "Christian" reflects the resilience and perseverance of the early Christian community in the face of adversity, and the enduring impact of their beliefs on subsequent generations. This historical evolution also underscores the dynamic nature of religious terminology and its capacity to adapt to changing contexts while retaining its core significance.

The historical context of the term "Christian" not only offers a glimpse into the early challenges faced by followers of Christ but also invites a deeper exploration of the cultural and social landscapes in which the term emerged. By examining the historical roots of "Christian" in the 19th century, we gain a richer understanding of its symbolic and cultural implications, and its continued relevance in contemporary religious discourse. This analysis also provides a framework for evaluating the portrayal and interpretation of "Christian" in religious texts, shedding light on its enduring significance within the teachings and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Furthermore, the historical context of the term "Christian" can be enriched by examining the linguistic and cultural influences that contributed to its evolution and usage. For example, the diverse cultural and linguistic milieu of the 19th century, marked by the interplay of various religious and philosophical traditions, shaped the understanding and connotations of the term "Christian" within the broader societal context. This multidimensional analysis offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural factors that shaped the terminology and identity of "Christian," contributing to a deeper understanding of its enduring significance within religious discourse.

Relevance to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Moreover, the analysis of the revealed name of the restored church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, demonstrates its consistency with the Bible. This alignment with biblical references further strengthens the naming and identity of the church within the context of historical and religious interpretations. The Book of Mormon's usage of the term "saint" and its correlation with the revealed name of the church provides a foundational connection to the biblical teachings, reinforcing the legitimacy and alignment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with its religious roots.

In addition to its alignment with biblical teachings, the relevance of Alma 46:14-15 to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints underscores the enduring theological and doctrinal implications of the Book of Mormon. For example, the intertextual references and connections between Alma 46:14-15 and Acts 11:26 offer insights into the historical and theological continuity between the Book of Mormon and the New Testament, enriching the understanding of the religious narrative and identity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This contextual analysis strengthens the religious and historical foundations of the church, reinforcing its theological and doctrinal coherence with the broader Christian tradition.

Critique and Controversies

The portrayal of the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon and the Bible has sparked contrasting perspectives, leading to controversies and debates surrounding the interpretation of these terms. For example, the absence of the terms "Church" and "Christian" in the Old Testament, in contrast to their presence in the Book of Mormon, has led to scholarly discussions and differing opinions about the historical and theological significance of these terms across religious texts.

Furthermore, the critiques of Mormon teachings and interpretations presented in the article have added to the controversies surrounding the understanding of the concept of "Church" and "Christian." For instance, the critique emphasizes the differences in the formation of the church as presented in the Book of Mormon and the Bible, sparking debates about the authenticity and consistency of religious teachings related to these terms. This has led to a deeper exploration of the historical context, linguistics, and theological implications, contributing to the ongoing controversies and discussions within the academic and religious communities.

Moreover, the controversies and debates surrounding the interpretation of "Church" and "Christian" have prompted a multidimensional analysis of the historical, linguistic, and cultural factors that shape these divergent portrayals. For instance, the divergent perspectives on the portrayal of religious concepts in the Book of Mormon and the Bible have led to critical assessments and scholarly inquiries, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of religious terminology and its implications for the understanding of faith and community within various religious traditions. This multidisciplinary discourse offers valuable insights into the broader theological and historical implications of the interpretation of "Church" and "Christian," contributing to a nuanced understanding of the religious and cultural dynamics at play.

Book of Mormon and the Old Testament

The comparison of the portrayal of the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament offers intriguing insights into the evolution and interpretation of these concepts in religious texts. The presence of the words "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon, specifically in Alma, chapter 46, dated to 73 BC, raises thought-provoking questions about the historical and doctrinal significance of these terms. It invites a scholarly examination of the portrayal of the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in these two distinct religious texts, shedding light on the evolution of religious beliefs and practices over time.

Furthermore, the absence of the term "Church" in the Old Testament while its presence is noted in the Book of Mormon presents an opportunity to delve into the theological and historical implications of this disparity. This disparity prompts a deeper exploration of the relevance and interpretation of the term "Church" in both texts. It invites researchers and theologians to consider the contextual factors, cultural influences, and doctrinal developments that may have contributed to the differing usage and portrayal of the concept of "Church" and "Christian" in these religious scriptures. By examining this contrast, scholars can gain a richer understanding of the evolving nature of religious terminology and its implications for the broader religious landscape.

Moreover, the examination of the word "Church" in the Old Testament prompts a critical analysis of its theological and historical significance within the context of the religious narrative. For instance, by exploring the absence of the term "Church" in the Old Testament, scholars can gain insights into the evolving nature of religious language and terminology, offering valuable perspectives on the continuity and diversity of religious beliefs and practices. This critical analysis contributes to a nuanced understanding of the religious and cultural dynamics at play, enriching the scholarly discourse on the portrayal and interpretation of "Church" and "Christian" in religious texts.

Now this is where it gets interesting. In the Septuagint, the word Ekklesia is used many times to translate the Hebrew word qahal (or kahal). As we recall the Septuagint is using Greek to translate the Old Testament, the same Greek as used in the New Testament. So what we end up with is an entire Bible written in Greek.  Now the Hebrew word Qahal is translated into English as multitude, company, congregation, and assembly. As we can see, two of the four definitions of qahal are identical to those of the Greek word ekklesia.  Now consider the following Old Testament passages, paying special attention to how the words “multitude”, “company”, “congregation” and “assembly” are used:

“And said unto me, Behold, I will make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, and I will make of thee a multitude of people; and will give this land to thy seed after thee for an everlasting possession.” Genesis 48:4 (KJV)

“And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”  Exodus 16:3 (KJV)

“Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel.” Numbers 14:5 (KJV)

“And Moses spake in the ears of all the congregation of Israel the words of this song, until they were ended.” Deuteronomy 31:30 (KJV)

“And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47 (KJV)

“I went mourning without the sun: I stood up, and I cried in the congregation.” Job 30:28 (KJV)

“I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.” Psalms 22:22 (KJV)

“Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.” Psalms 149:1 (KJV) 

“For, lo, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon an assembly of great nations from the north country: and they shall set themselves in array against her; from thence she shall be taken: their arrows shall be as of a mighty expert man; none shall return in vain.” Jeremiah 50:9 (KJV)

In addition to its historical and theological implications, the comparison of the portrayal of "Church" and "Christian" in the Book of Mormon and the Old Testament offers valuable insights into the enduring themes and narratives that transcend individual religious texts. For example, the intertextual references and connections between these scriptures provide a framework for understanding the historical and doctrinal continuities, enriching the broader understanding of religious identity and community within the Christian tradition. This comparative analysis offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical, cultural, and theological factors that have shaped the portrayal of these concepts, contributing to a deeper appreciation of their enduring significance within religious discourse.

In conclusion, the analysis of Alma 46:14-15 and the exploration of the terms "Church" and "Christian" offer valuable insights into the historical, theological, and cultural dimensions of these concepts. Through a multidimensional analysis rooted in historical, linguistic, and intertextual perspectives, scholars and theologians can gain a richer understanding of the enduring significance and complexity of religious terminology and its implications for the broader religious landscape. This comprehensive exploration of "Church" and "Christian" serves to enrich the scholarly discourse on religious identity, community, and faith, contributing to a deeper appreciation of the diverse and interconnected narratives that shape the Christian tradition.