In this Lecture we will discuss the Nature and mission of the church in 4 parts. by the end of the lecture you will have a clear understanding of the church as Christ's body, the holy spirits role , and what the church mission is. The church is not simply a building or an organization; it is a community of believers who gather together to worship, serve, and fulfill a great mission. 1. The Church as the Body of Christ The apostle Paul describes the church as the body of Christ, with Jesus as the head. "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." (1 Corinthians 12:12) Just as a body has many different parts working together for a common purpose, so does the church. Each member has a unique role to play and contributes to the overall functioning and growth of the body. In the church, diversity is embraced and celebrated. Just like the different organs and systems in a human body serve distinct functions, each member of the church brings forth their unique talents, skills, and perspectives to fulfill specific roles within the community. Some may be gifted with teaching, others with serving, healing, or leadership. Together, they form a cohesive unit that works towards a shared mission of love, service, and spreading the message of faith. When everyone contributes their God-given gifts and abilities, the church becomes a place where individuals are encouraged, edified, and empowered. It is through this synergy that the body of Christ flourishes, as each person's contribution is valued and vital for the overall health and effectiveness of the community.

**The Role and Purpose of Systematic Theology** Systematic Theology stands as the bedrock of religious comprehension and faith. It offers believers a structured approach to grappling with bigger questions, ultimately fortifying their spiritual foundations. In this lesson, we will delve into the significant role and purpose that Systematic Theology plays in shaping our understanding of faith. In this lesson we'll explore the significant role purpose of Systematic Theology. By the end of this lesson you will know how to clearly define systematic theology the role it plays in 4 parts and the 4 part purpose of systematic theology. *Scripture for Reflection (Proverbs 2:6):* "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Use this scripture to keep fresh in our mind as we go throughout this lesson. Lets start by **Defining Systematic Theology:** It is a methodical approach to comprehend and organize religious beliefs. The term "systematic" implies a deliberate effort to construct a coherent framework for understanding religious doctrines and their interrelationships. A simply way to think of this is a structured approach to the Study of God and Religion (we will be repeating this throughout the course)