The majority of the New Testament is devoted to teaching new believers how to operate a church. Many Christians (well-meaning Christians) forget that the Bible teaches that the Church is more than a building.
The Definition of Church
The Oxford American Dictionary defines a church as: "church: n. a building used for public Christian worship; they came to church with me. (usu. Church) a particular Christian organization typically one with clergy, buildings, and distinctive doctrines: The Church of England. (the Church) the hierarchy of clergy of such an organization, esp. the Roman Catholic Church or the Church of England. Institutionalized religion as a political or social force: the separation of church and state. The body of all Christians."
The Definition of a Chapel
A common misconception is that a church and chapel are the same. A chapel is defined as: "chapel: n. a small building for Christian worship, typically one attached to an institution or private home. Regular services held in such a building: attendance at chapel was compulsory. A part of a large church or cathedral with its own altar and dedication. A room or building in which funeral services are held." (Oxford American Dictionary)
To Break It Down
A chapel is a building or room designated for worship.
A chapel has no organization or responsibility of its own, it is a satellite of the whole.
A church is a group of believers who follow Biblical teaching and claim Jesus Christ as their savior.
The original church was based in private homes. It survived by the work of believers organizing meetings, helping each other in daily life, and sharing letters from the apostles. Throughout the New Testament, the church is referred to as "the body of Christ."
Why a Chapel is Different
Everyone has a function in the church. Without believers, there is no church. That can't be said for a chapel. With or without clergy or congregations a chapel is still a chapel.
Chapels serve a purpose, they offer a place of solitude for believers. They are part of hospitals, educational institutions, palaces, and funerals.
There isn't a social structure to a chapel like there is for a church.
Churches have a business side to them. Members of a church discuss financial decisions, they organize help for their communities, and they try to build their church in membership and accessibility to their communities.
Chapels can be meeting places for church activities, but the members bring the church into it.
So no matter what your religious or spiritual preference, it is possible to attend both a “chapel” and a “church.” They are like the two parts of a letter, the written message, and the envelope. The letter metaphor is a great image for a chapel and church’s purpose. Both work to bring a person closer to God.
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