What is the primary power of the church?

The primary power of the church is best understood as the authority to proclaim, administer, and enforce Christ's law. This reflects the church's spiritual mandate, which is centered on the primary mission of spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ and guiding its members in living according to those teachings.

Proclaiming Christ's law involves sharing the Gospel and teaching biblical principles to believers, while administering it entails applying these teachings within the church community, including practices such as baptism and communion. Enforcement, in this context, is less about coercive measures and more about guiding members toward a life that aligns with Christian values and community standards, thus fostering a supportive environment for spiritual growth.

Other approaches, such as governing forcefully, creating social policies, or regulating public law, diverge from the church's core mission. While churches may engage with social issues or advocate for justice in broader society, these actions are secondary to their fundamental purpose of spiritual instruction and community edification rooted in scripture.