Seven Pillars Of The Church

We in the Chicago Church believe the gospel of Christ is the only firm foundation for this life and the life to come. Wise men build their spiritual houses upon this firm foundation, while foolish men ignore its call. Tempests of turmoil and temptation will attempt to tear away at our temporary dwellings, but true temples withstand testing when they are built upon this rock. The life and teachings of Jesus leave us with a foundation on which we can begin to build or rebuild our lives. This gospel foundation is strong but simple. It is both timely and timeless.

In 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, Paul reminds us about the significance of our spiritual foundation:

By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.

The process of pouring concrete is fairly straightforward. In many ways, it’s more like baking than Algebra. This dependable base is a combination of a few simple elements, specific ratios, and time. Within the first 48 hours, concrete is typically firm enough to walk and drive upon. Quick and simple, right? We should, however, not assume that what appears firm and can withstand minimal loads is actually solidified. Concrete is fully cured after 28 days, and only then can it be treated as something capable to withstand its full load. Foundations can’t be rushed, and they often require more care than you would expect. 

So once that wise man has laid a good foundation, how should he go about constructing his house? What is the purpose of the foundation if not to support the glory that is built upon it? Paul continues his thoughts on this firm foundation: 

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. (1 Corinthians 3:12-13)

The Chicago Church of Christ embraces seven pillars by which we seek to build God’s Kingdom. These pillars are not our foundation, nor are they doctrinal stances. They are merely the application of how we embody the gospel as a missional community in the world today. The pillars are simply the metals and costly stones that are being built upon this unshakable foundation. These are the pillars and walls of the temple, of which we are living stones. (1 Peter 2:4-10).

Pillar One: Holistic 

We want each of our locations to meet the needs of the communities they serve: Worship to connect people to God; Youth and Family Ministry to build strong families; Shepherding to give support during the trials and transitions of life, and Leadership to keep the vision and the mission before us.

Pillar Two: Emergent

Churches don’t need help getting older, but they must be intentional about reaching the younger generation. Youth and Family, College and Young Professional ministries are a bright light and deliberate focus by which we hope to impact the world for God. 

Pillar Three: Family 

Family is our paradigm, and we believe that a spiritual family should span many generations. We embrace a “Youth and Family” model that seeks to address the spiritual development of all children within the dynamics of their family. Parenting is seen as shepherding — a close, dynamic and loving investment in the lives of our children.

Pillar Four: Impact

We want our relationships to count for something real. We want our words and our actions to change the world. We believe that every disciple who lives under the lordship of Jesus makes an impact on others around them.

Pillar Five: Wisdom 

There’s a strong correlation between great learners and great teachers, and we aspire to be both. We believe in equipping our leaders and members with a deep knowledge of the Word of God and training them to be able to best present it to others at their point of need.

Pillar Six: Resources 

We want to make sure every disciple is equipped to not only withstand Satan's attacks but also live a deep and faithful life with God. Tools such as facilities, media, and other communication modes are critical to equipping God's people for works of service. 

Pillar Seven: Rhythms 

Different aspects of our faith occur at various frequencies, yet discipleship occurs daily. The DNA of a healthy church has a rhythm in such a way that worship, teaching, training, outreach, prayer, mentoring, fellowship, and service not only seem normative, but desirable. 

These are the pillars by which we strive to build the Kingdom of God in Chicago. The architectural style of many of Chicago’s great buildings chooses to celebrate their structure. Pillars are no longer hidden behind drywall but brought to the exterior. Concrete floors are no longer covered with carpet, but polished and pristine. We are proud in the Chicago Church of Christ to stand upon a firm foundation, and we are blessed to have the opportunity to build upon it. We are committed to using our talents, passions, and resources to build up God’s Kingdom, and we will do our best to build it with care.