Jesus and the Church: The Foundation of the Church in the New Testament and Modern Theology

Paul Avis argues that the Christian church was founded by Jesus, but not as we know it. He argues that Jesus wanted a church, but not as we know it, and that the church is indestructible due to the gospel of Christ, embodied in word and sacrament.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2020
Publisher: Continuum Publishing Corporation

The true foundation of the Christian church is a subject of much debate and discussion among scholars and theologians. While some argue that the church was founded by Jesus himself, others suggest that the Eucharist is the key factor that makes the church what it is. In his book, "The Eucharist Makes the Church: Avis's Answer to the Questions," Paul Avis sets out to explore these questions and provide his own answer.

Avis begins by gathering a wide range of critical scholarship on the topic, drawing from a variety of sources and perspectives. He argues that there is something solid and dependable at the foundation of the church's life and mission, despite the church's many challenges and divisions.

Avis suggests that Jesus wanted a church in a sense, but not as we know it today. He argues that Christ proclaimed the gospel of the Kingdom and his disciples proclaimed the gospel, whose content was Jesus himself, the Kingdom in person. The church, according to Avis, is not a physical building or an organization, but rather a community of believers who are united by their faith in Christ and his teachings.

Despite the church's many struggles and divisions, Avis believes that the gospel of Christ, embodied in word and sacrament, is indestructible. He argues that the church is battered and divided, but at its core is a treasure that is worth fighting for. The book explores the relationship between the church and Christ, the church and the gospel, and the church and the Kingdom.

Avis argues that Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is the sole foundation of the church. He cannot be without his people, and the church is called to be a living embodiment of Christ's love and grace. Avis also emphasizes the importance of the Eucharist as the central act of worship and communion between God and his people.

In conclusion, "The Eucharist Makes the Church: Avis's Answer to the Questions" provides a thoughtful and engaging exploration of the true foundation of the Christian church. Avis argues that while Jesus is the sole foundation of the church, the Eucharist is the key factor that makes the church what it is. He provides a solid and dependable foundation for the church's life and mission, and encourages believers to hold onto the gospel of Christ and his teachings, even in the face of adversity and division.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826441669