What is a Christ-Centered Church?

If you grew up going to church, you’ve heard the familiar rhyme: “Here’s the church, here’s the steeple, open the doors, and see all the people.” While it’s a nostalgic image, it misrepresents what a Christ-centered church truly is. The church isn’t the building or the steeple—it’s the people who gathered as followers of Christ.

In Matthew’s Gospel account, Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter replies, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus responds, “…on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:17-18, ESV)

Notice, that Jesus doesn’t mention a building. He uses the word “ekklesia,” which means “assembly” or “gathering,” showing that the essence of the church lies in its people, not a physical structure.

When the People Become the Church

Sadly, far too many churches have become more identified with their buildings than with their mission. Studies show that revitalizing a church with an existing building is often more challenging than starting a new one. Why? Because the building tends to become the focus, instead of the mission that the building (and all structures) should serve.

This isn’t a problem unique to any specific congregation. Most Western churches will face this challenge at some point, so it’s crucial for church leaders to periodically ask themselves:

“Are we focusing on being a Christ-centered church, or are we maintaining a people-centred structure?”

Keeping Christ at the Center of Everything

The most essential value of any Christ-centered church is to keep Jesus at the heart of everything.

The author of Hebrews reminds us to “lay aside every weight and sin… and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2, ESV)

If the structures, ministries and programs of a local church don’t point to Jesus, that congregation risks losing sight of its original purpose. Christ-centeredness is not just a Sunday activity or a topic of discussion—it’s about living out our faith every day.

Authenticity and the Christ-Centred Church

In a world where people crave authenticity, the church should be a place where genuine life is embraced. Authenticity in a Christ-centered church means being real with one another, accepting people where they are, and offering grace for life’s challenges.

This concept fits with Paul’s exhortation for the Roman Church:

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” (Romans 12:9, ESV)

When we extend love and grace as freely as Christ does, the church becomes a space of growth and true connection.

Reclaiming the Mission of Ekklesia

Jesus’ vision for His church goes beyond physical building—it’s a global movement of His followers. The ekklesia was designed to gather in any space, not just within church walls. Today, every local Christ-centered church has a vital role in this mission.

The building itself isn’t evil or wrong. And yet, now’s the time to refocus these assets, with authentic, Christ-centered living to reclaim the mission of the Ekklesia. We should reconsider the old rhyme:

“Followers of Christ gather together, out in the open or under a shelter. It might not have a steeple, it might not have a cross, but the doors are always open to those who are lost.” (J. Norton)

If you’re searching for something deeper and more real, it’s found in Jesus. Whether you’re new to faith or have been on this journey for years, it’s time to live beyond the building and experience the fullness of a Christ-centered church beyond Sunday.

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Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• In what ways can we focus more on being the church rather than just going to church?
• What challenges do you face living out your faith beyond Sunday?
• How have you experienced the difference between cultural Christianity and authentic Christ-centered living?