Here are some brief thoughts on a biblical understanding of the church from a Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling:

1. The church is one (Eph 4:3-6)
2. The church is one body with many functions; each member has a purpose (Rom 12:4-8; 1 Cor 12-14)
3. Together, Christians comprise God’s household, in which the Spirit of God lives (Eph 2:19-22)
4. Keep the unity of believers; don’t follow men but follow Jesus (1 Cor 1:10-17)
5. Jesus is the head of the church (Eph 1:20-23)
6. Jesus loves the church (Eph 1:22-23, 5:23)
7. Jesus prays for the church (John 17:6-26)
8. The church is a great multitude gathered from all nations and tribes (Rev 7:9)
9. Attend a local church faithfully (Heb 10:25)
10. Pastors are God’s appointed shepherd over the flock of God (Acts 20:28)
11. God condemns and warns unfaithful shepherds (Ezk 34:1-16)