Members of churches of Christ believe there is no single founder in the traditional sense. They hold that the church was established by Jesus Christ in the first century as described in the New Testament. This perspective emphasizes the direct connection to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, citing biblical passages as the foundation for their beliefs and practices. Adherents often point to the book of Acts as chronicling the early church’s formation and expansion.
This understanding of origins shapes the church’s identity and ecclesiology. By focusing on scriptural authority, congregations strive to replicate the practices and structure of the early church. The belief in a direct lineage back to the first century fosters a sense of historical continuity and provides a framework for interpreting scripture and organizing their communities. This often results in a strong emphasis on a cappella singing, weekly communion, and a decentralized organizational structure, with each congregation operating autonomously.