How Can Christ’s Roles Shape the Function of the Church?

Alex Palmeira
Jan 20
4 min read

The journey of forming a core group into a church that is distinctively Adventist hinges on its Christ-centered mission. Such a church must reflect the rhythms of Jesus, emphasizing Communion, Relationships, and Mission (CRM) while embodying Christ's threefold ministry of Prophet, Priest, and King. This article explores how these roles shape the church's functions and align its mission with Christ’s example.

Alan Hirsch warns that:"The loss of covenantal relationship results in a religion different from what Jesus initiated. If we fail here, we fail in everything else" (Hirsch, 2015, p. 122).

This exploration builds on the premise that ecclesiology, Christology, and missiology are inseparable disciplines. Together, they form the foundation for shaping a Christ-centered ministry.

1. The Foundation of a Christ-Centered Ministry

A Christ-centered ministry finds its purpose and mission in the life and work of Jesus. His declaration, “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you” (John 20:21), underscores that the church’s mission is an extension of His own ministry.

David Bosch highlights that:"Discipleship is determined by a relationship with Christ, not mere conformity to impersonal commandments" (Bosch, 2002, p. 58).

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) reflects this relational foundation, inviting believers into active participation in God’s redemptive plan. Ellen G. White affirms:"The church is God's appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world" (White, 1911, p. 9).

2. Christ’s Threefold Roles: Prophet, Priest, and King

John Calvin’s concept of the munus triplex (threefold office) of Christ—Prophet, Priest, and King—provides a framework for understanding the church’s mission. These roles align with Adventist theology and reflect the holistic nature of Christ’s ministry.

a. Prophetic Ministry

Definition: Declaring God’s truth, calling for repentance, and proclaiming the eternal gospel.
Biblical Basis: Jesus was recognized as a prophet (Luke 24:19) and preached the gospel of the kingdom (Luke 4:18–19).
Application: The church fulfills this role through teaching, preaching, and proclaiming the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14, emphasizing justice, mercy, and obedience to God.

b. Priestly Ministry

Definition: Mediating between God and humanity through service, compassion, and intercession.
Biblical Basis: The epistle to the Hebrews describes Jesus as the High Priest who intercedes for humanity (Hebrews 7:25–28).
Application: The church embodies this role by serving the community, fostering reconciliation, and building an inclusive fellowship that reflects Christ’s love (Matthew 20:28).

c. Regal (Kingly) Ministry

Definition: Exercising leadership to advance God’s kingdom.
Biblical Basis: Jesus’ kingship is affirmed through His Davidic lineage (Luke 1:32–33) and His sovereign reign (Revelation 19:16).
Application: Churches empower believers to live as Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), equipping them for leadership and discipleship.

3. Integrating Christ’s Roles into Church Ministry

To effectively embody these roles, churches must integrate them into their ministries, creating a balanced approach that reflects Christ’s mission.

Missional Focus

Outward Orientation: The church prioritizes evangelism and community transformation.
Outcome: A movement that fosters spiritual growth and social impact.

Incarnational Focus

Inward Orientation: The church emphasizes relationships and service, addressing both spiritual and practical needs.
Outcome: A compassionate, servant-hearted community that reflects the character of Christ.

Empowering Focus

Upward Orientation: The church trains and equips leaders to serve and multiply disciples.
Outcome: A culture of leadership development and mission-driven discipleship.

4. Practical Steps to Shape Church Functions

Step 1: Define Ministry Priorities

Use Christ’s roles to guide core functions:

Prophetic: Preach and teach the gospel, focusing on present truth and biblical principles.
Priestly: Build relational ministries and small groups that nurture spiritual growth.
Regal: Develop leadership training programs to empower members for ministry.

Step 2: Train the Core Group

Core group training should include:

The theological significance of Christ’s roles.
Practical applications for ministry, discipleship, and mission.
Strategic planning for outreach and leadership development.

Step 3: Evaluate and Adjust

Regularly assess the church’s ministries to ensure balance across Christ’s roles. Make adjustments as needed to maintain alignment with biblical principles and missional objectives.

5. The Trinity’s Role in the Church’s Mission

The functions of Christ align with the Trinity’s work in the church:

Father: Reflecting justice and truth, guiding the prophetic ministry.
Son: Embodying compassion and service, directing the priestly ministry.
Spirit: Empowering believers, driving the kingly ministry.

This Trinitarian focus ensures the church operates as a unified body under divine guidance.

6. Application to Church Planting

Church plants that adopt this framework will:

Saturate communities with the gospel through prophetic outreach.
Build relational ministries that nurture discipleship.
Empower leaders to expand the kingdom through multiplication.

These phases align with a progressive approach to church planting:

Phase 1 (Prophetic): Focus on evangelistic efforts and community engagement.
Phase 2 (Priestly): Build relationships and foster discipleship.
Phase 3 (King): Train leaders and initiate new church plants.

Conclusion

The church’s mission is to embody the ministry of Christ by reflecting His roles as Prophet, Priest, and King. This framework provides a biblical foundation for shaping church functions and aligning them with the goal of expanding God’s kingdom.

As core groups internalize these principles, they form Christ-centered communities that fulfill their divine calling while transforming their local contexts. By reflecting the life and mission of Jesus, such churches align with the Adventist vision of proclaiming the everlasting gospel and preparing the world for Christ’s return.

References

Berkhof, H. (1986). Christian Faith: An Introduction to the Study of the Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans Publishing.
Bosch, D. J. (2002). Transforming Mission: Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books.
Hirsch, A. (2015). Forgotten Ways: Reactivating Apostolic Movements. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books.
Knight, G. R. (2010). The Apocalyptic Vision and the Neutralization of Adventism. Hagerstown, MD: Review and Herald Publishing Association.
Van Engen, C. (1996). Mission on the Way: Issues in Mission Theology. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.
White, E. G. (1911). The Acts of the Apostles. Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association.
White, E. G. (2006). Evangelism. Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association.
White, E. G. (2006). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9. Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Publishing Association.