INTRODUCTION
There is a lot of confusion and contention in the church over the issue of how the word foundation applies to the church, whether or not Jesus is the only founder of the church, or whether or not there is such a thing as a ‘church founder.’
A dear brother in the Lord has said that our generation suffers from ‘too much information,’ not from ‘lack of information.’ A lot of misunderstanding on this subject comes from radical interpretations of the words which highlight some truths at the expense of other coexistent truths which are to the exclusion of each other.
I will go to the root meaning of the words and let the bible speak to help us find out what the bible says about the subject, and avoid creating our own meaning out of the whole issue. In the context of the church, the terms "founder" and "foundation" have specific meanings and applications.
So as we go into the scriptures with the understanding of these definitions of the word ‘foundation,’ you will realize that the correct meaning of the word is determined by the context of the scripture in which it is used, and not one of these meaning disqualifies the other.
THE MEANING OF FOUNDATION
The term "foundation" in the context of the church can have multiple meanings and applications.
According to Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia, a foundation is:
1.The act of founding, originating, or beginning to raise or build; the act of establishing;
Mat 13:35 says, 'That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.’
2.The solid ground or substructure on which the walls of a building rest; also, the lowest division of the building or wall, which is generally below the surface of the ground.
Luk 6:48 says, 'He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.'
In this case, the term "foundation" refers to the physical structure of a church building. The foundation, in this sense, represents the base upon which the entire building rests, providing stability and support.
According to WordNet 3.6, a foundation is:
1. Education or instruction in the fundamentals of a field of knowledge "he lacks the foundation necessary for advanced study", "a good foundation in mathematics." This applies to the foundation of ‘doctrine or teaching’ in the bible.
The foundation of a church can refer to its core beliefs, teachings, and doctrines. These foundational principles often shape the church's identity, guide its practices, and provide a basis for its doctrinal framework.
The foundation of a church's faith may include beliefs about God, salvation, the nature of Christ, the Bible, and other essential biblical tenets. The person who first teaches the gospel lays the ‘foundation’ of the ‘doctrine of Christ’ in the church, and Jesus Christ is the only foundational doctrine for the church.
1Co 3:6, 10-11 says, 'I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.'
In this passage, the Apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, which was divided over their loyalty to different leaders. Paul reminds them that he laid the foundation of their faith through his preaching and teaching about Jesus.
While Paul had a significant role in establishing the Corinthian church, he recognized that he was only building on the foundation that is Jesus Christ. The true foundation of the church is Jesus, and all human founders are called to build upon that foundation and point people to Him.
Heb 6:1 says, 'Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.
So it is important to note that when Paul says there is no other foundation other than Christ, the context of the foundation is the ‘teaching’ by which the church is built, not the foundational structure of the church. So this verse is not in conflict with the other verses that talk about church leaders as ‘the foundation of the church’ at all.
The etymology of the word ‘foundation’ shows that the word is from Old French 'fondacion' and Latin 'fundationem' mean:
1. "A founding/that which is founded" (a college, hospital, etc.) which is noun of action from past-participle stem of Latin 'fundare' - "to lay a bottom or foundation." So, here the word is used to refer to the whole church as the sure foundation of the Lord sealed by the Holy Spirit in the new birth.
2Ti 2:19 says, 'Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
The foundation of a church can also refer to its structure, governance, and organizational principles. This includes the establishment of leadership roles, the development of a governing structure (such as elders, pastors, or bishops and deacons), and the establishment of policies and procedures for the functioning of the church.
The foundation of a church is crucial because it provides stability, direction, and a sense of identity for its members. It is a reference point for the church's beliefs, practices, and overall mission.
Before we go on to answer the sticking questions and address the seemingly conflicting scriptures in our discourse, let us go on to the definition of the word ‘founder.'
THE MEANING OF FOUNDER
The etymology of the word ‘found’ shows that the word ‘found’ comes from French 'fonder’ - "found, establish; set, place; fashion, make;" and from Latin ‘fundare/fundus’ - "to lay the bottom, basis or foundation" of something.
According to the Merriam-Webster, a founder is:
1.One that founds or establishes (an institution or an ideology) e.g. the founder of a company (institution), or the founder of psychoanalysis (ideology).
So in this sense the person who starts a ministry organisation (whether denominational, interdenominational, or non-denominational) is its’ founder. What matters at this level is for the founder to establish the organisation on the spiritual rock, which is the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Luk 6:48 says, “He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.”
Mat 16:18 says, “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
1Co 10:4 says, 'And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.'
2.The synonyms (alternative words) for founder are: author, begetter, creator, establisher, father, founding father, generator, inaugurator, initiator, instituter (or institutor), originator, sire.
NB: Kindly note that the word ‘owner or lord’ which means ‘possessor’ appears nowhere in the definitions and synonyms of the word ‘founder.’
According to Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia a founder is:
1. One who founds or establishes. One who lays a foundation or begins to build: as, the founder of a temple or a city. This definition of founder speaks of a person who plants a church (local assembly of believers), and the ‘church plant’ is actually called the ‘man’s foundation’ (referring to the church planter) in the scriptures.
Rom 15:20 says, 'Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation,'
2. An originator; one from whom anything derives its beginning; an author: as, the founder of a sect of philosophers; the founder of a family. In this sense the first person to introduce something is its founder.
Adam being the father of the human race can be rightly referred to as its founder or founding father. And Jesus (the last Adam) being the father of the new human race (new creation) which is ‘the church of the firstborn,’ is rightly called its founder or founding father.
1Co 15:45 (ESV) says, 'Thus it is written, "The first man Adam became a living being"; the last Adam became a life-giving spirit.'
Heb 12:23-24 says, 'To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven…'
In the context of the church, the term "founder" typically refers to the person or group of people who initially establish or establish a spiritual movement, denomination, or congregation. The founder is the individual or individuals who are credited with starting the church or playing a significant role in its establishment.
Jesus Christ is the founder of Christianity, as He laid the spiritual and doctrinal foundation of the faith during His ministry.
After Jesus ascended to heaven, there are twelve apostles and prophets (also called ‘apostles of the Lamb’) who pioneered the church as its ‘founding fathers’ on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured on the 120 believers who were gathered in the Upper Room, and in that sense they are the founders or ‘twelve foundations’ upon which the whole church is built – with Jesus as the Chief Cornerstone or Headstone of the (upper) corner.
Eph 2:19-22 says, 'Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.'
Here, Paul is writing to the believers in Ephesus, emphasizing the unity and purpose of the church. He describes how believers, both Jews and Gentiles, are being built together into one spiritual house.
The church is not founded solely by one person but is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ Himself as the cornerstone. It teaches us the importance of unity in the body of Christ, as we are all part of God's building project. Though individuals may play crucial roles, the chief founder and cornerstone of the church is Jesus Christ.
Rev 21:14 says, 'And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.'
A BRIEF HISTORY OF PROMINENT CHURCH FOUNDERS IN THE BIBLE
Jesus Christ
As mentioned earlier, Jesus is the central figure in Christianity and is considered the founder of the Christian faith. He preached about the Kingdom of God, performed miracles, and gathered a group of disciples who became the core of the early Christian community. Jesus' teachings, ministry, death, and resurrection form the basis of Christian doctrine and belief.
Peter
Simon Peter, also known as Saint Peter, was one of Jesus' twelve apostles and an influential figure in the early Christian Church. After Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, Peter emerged as a prominent leader among the disciples. He preached the Gospel, performed miracles, and was instrumental in the conversion of many people. According to tradition, Peter became the first Bishop of Rome and is even wrongly regarded as the first Pope by the Roman Catholic Church.
Paul
Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a Jewish pharisee who initially persecuted early Christians but later underwent a profound conversion after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus. He became one of the most important figures in the early Christian Church, undertaking several missionary journeys to spread the Gospel among both Jews and Gentiles. Paul's letters, also known as the Pauline Epistles, are an integral part of the New Testament and provide significant doctrinal insights and guidance for early Christian communities.
James
James, the brother of Jesus, played a crucial role in the early Christian Church. Initially skeptical of Jesus' messianic claims, James became a believer after Jesus' resurrection. He became the leader of the Christian community in Jerusalem and was highly respected for his wisdom and piety. James' influence and leadership helped shape the early Christian Church, particularly in its relations with Jewish traditions.
John
John, one of the twelve apostles, was a close disciple of Jesus and played a prominent role in the early Christian Church. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of John, as well as the three Epistles of John and the Book of Revelation. John's writings contain profound biblical and spiritual insights and continue to be highly regarded by Christians.
Matthew
Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of Jesus' twelve apostles. Before his encounter with Jesus, Matthew was a tax collector. After responding to Jesus' call, he became a devoted follower and witnessed Jesus' teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Matthew is traditionally attributed as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, which provides a detailed account of Jesus' life, teachings, and ministry.
Andrew
Andrew was another of the twelve apostles and the brother of Simon Peter. He was initially a disciple of John the Baptist and became one of the first to follow Jesus. Andrew is known for bringing his brother Peter to Jesus. While he had a lesser role in the biblical accounts compared to Peter, Andrew played a vital part in the early Christian Church, particularly in evangelism and discipleship.
Barnabas
Barnabas was an early Christian leader and companion of the apostle Paul. He was instrumental in Paul's acceptance by the apostles in Jerusalem, as he vouched for Paul's conversion and defended him against doubts. Barnabas accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey, where they proclaimed the Gospel and established several Christian communities. Barnabas is remembered for his encouragement, generosity, and commitment to nurturing new believers.
These individuals, among others, played crucial roles in establishing and nurturing the early Christian Church. Their teachings, writings, missionary efforts, and personal examples helped spread the Gospel and create a strong foundation for the Christian faith. The New Testament captures their contributions and provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of the early Church.
These are just a few examples of prominent church founders and their contributions mentioned in the Bible. But, the early Church was a collective effort involving numerous individuals who played essential roles in spreading the message of Jesus Christ and establishing Christian communities. The New Testament provides accounts of their missionary work, teachings, and sacrifices, which laid the foundation for the growth and development of the Church.
PROMINENT CHURCH FOUNDERS/FATHERS IN CHURCH HISTORY AFTER THE APOSTOLIC ERA
Here are some of the prominent church founders, commonly known as Church Fathers, who played significant roles in church history after the apostolic era of the early church;
Ignatius of Antioch (c. AD 35–108)
Ignatius was the bishop of Antioch and a disciple of the apostle John. He is known for his seven letters written during his journey to martyrdom in Rome. Ignatius emphasized the importance of episcopal authority, the unity of the Church, and the Eucharist.
Polycarp of Smyrna (c. AD 69–155)
Polycarp was a disciple of the apostle John and the bishop of Smyrna. He is recognized as one of the earliest Christian martyrs. Polycarp's writings and teachings focused on the preservation of apostolic tradition and the defense of orthodox Christian beliefs against heretical teachings.
Irenaeus of Lyons (c. AD 130–202)
Irenaeus was the bishop of Lyons in Gaul (modern-day France). He is best known for his work "Against Heresies," in which he refuted various Gnostic teachings and emphasized the importance of apostolic succession and the authority of Scripture in defending orthodox Christian doctrine.
Tertullian (c. AD 155–240)
Tertullian was a prolific Christian writer and bible scholar from Carthage in North Africa. He is often referred to as the "Father of Latin Theology." Tertullian addressed various doctrinal and ethical issues of his time and made significant contributions to the development of the Trinitarian theology and the understanding of the sacraments.
Origen of Alexandria (c. AD 185–254)
Origen was a scholar and theologian from Alexandria, Egypt. He is considered one of the most influential Christian thinkers of his time. Origen's extensive writings cover a wide range of topics, including biblical exegesis, theology, apologetics, and philosophy. His works contributed to the development of Christian doctrine and influenced subsequent theological debates.
Athanasius of Alexandria (c. AD 296–373)
Athanasius was the bishop of Alexandria and a staunch defender of orthodox Christian teaching against the Arian heresy. He played a crucial role in the Council of Nicaea in AD 325, where the Nicene Creed was formulated, affirming the divinity of Jesus Christ. Athanasius' writings, particularly his "On the Incarnation," are highly regarded in Christian theology.
Augustine of Hippo (AD 354–430)
Augustine, also known as St. Augustine, was a bishop and theologian from Hippo Regius in North Africa. His works profoundly influenced Western Christianity and philosophy. Augustine addressed various theological topics, including original sin, salvation, predestination, and the nature of God. His writings, such as "Confessions" and "City of God," continue to be widely read and studied.
These Church Fathers played pivotal roles in shaping the development of modern day Christian theology, defending orthodoxy, and addressing theological controversies of their time. Their writings and teachings continue to be influential in Christian thought and have had a lasting impact on the Church throughout history.
CONCLUSION
From the scriptures and definitions above these truths which co-exist and should not be used or abused to the exclusion of each other:
Jesus is the founder of the church in the sense that He laid its’ foundation by preparing the twelve apostles for its launch in a period of 40 days after His resurrection as He had promised. He is the Rock (Chief Cornerstone) on which the church is built.
Mat 16:18 says, 'And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.'
Act 1:1-9 says, 'The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.'
Jesus is the only foundation of the church in the sense of ‘foundation being the doctrine, teaching and message of the gospel.’ And there is no other foundation to be taught in the church other than Christ.
The twelve apostles (and prophets) of the Lamb are the foundation of the church as its ‘founding fathers’ or simply ‘founders’ on the day of Pentecost after the ascension of Christ.
Any man who plants a ‘local church assembly’ is the founder of that church, and the assembly is that ‘man’s foundation.’
The person who starts any ministry organisation whether denominational, interdenominational or nondenominational, is its founder.
While Jesus Christ is indeed the ultimate foundation and head of the Christian church, it is not unbiblical for individuals to play a role in establishing and leading local churches in the New Testament. In practical terms, the scriptures remind us to focus on the centrality of Jesus Christ as the foundation of our faith and the church.
It is essential to honor and respect those who have been called to lead and establish local churches, recognizing that their role is to point people to Jesus and build upon His teachings.
At the same time, we should avoid elevating any human leader to the level of Jesus and remember that the ultimate authority and founder of the Christian church is Jesus Christ Himself.
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