Invisible Church: Word of the Week

Invisible Church

A designation, dating perhaps to Augustine, referring to the sum total of all genuine believers who have been united by the Holy Spirit into the body of Christ, whether living or dead. Unlike the visible church, which is an historical, localized gathering of people who profess faith in Christ whether or not they are truly in Christ, the invisible church cannot be observed outwardly because its members are known only by God, who sees their internal faith and not merely their outward profession of faith.

To access more definitions, go to The Lutheran Lexicon.