Six Models of Church

A schematic description of a system, theory, or phenomenon that accounts for its known or inferred properties and may be used for further study of its characteristics.

Cardinal Avery Dulles

Church as Institution

1. Hierarchical constitution of the Church

2. Relative clarity and simplicity

3. Does not enjoy extensive New Testament support

Church as Communion

1. Invisible reality of the life of the Church—family

2. Firm New Testament base.

3. Neglect the visible aspects of Church—amorphous “good fellowship.”

Church as Sacrament

1. The visible sign of God’s loving presence in the world.

2. Shows both the invisible and the visible reality of Church.

3. Presupposes a certain theological sophistication.

Church as Herald

(Messenger)

1. Proclamation and preaching of the Gospel

2. Protestant communities have long given central importance to this model of Church.

3. Emphasis on word does not match emphasis on sacrament.

Church as Servant

1. Work for social justice which is at the heart of the Church’s mission.

2. Stresses the active participation of lay people.

3. Exclusive use can compromise what is distinctive to the Church of Christ.

Church as Community of

Disciples

1. Follow completely in the footprints of Jesus.

2. People whose lifestyle stands in contrast with the rest of society.

3. Jesus never imagined that his disciples would have an easy life.

Remember the Six Models

• Institution• Communion• Sacrament• Herald• Servant• Community of Disciples

1. Forum assignment—check Moodle

2. Video on Church History and Ecclesiology starts next week.

3. Chapter 2

4. Book Club