Ecclesiology of the home: historical-theological foundations for a community centered on the oikos

Abstract

This paper presents a historical-theological analysis of Christian ecclesiology, arguing that the neglect of the “house element” (oikos) in favor of an institution-centered model focused on buildings represents a fundamental departure from the New Testament pattern. The research traces the trajectory of the Church from its apostolic model—a dynamic cycle of public evangelism culminating in integration into vibrant household communities — to its post-Constantinian institutionalization, which transformed the Church from a relational organism into a hierarchical organization. It analyzes how the Protestant Reformation, while rescuing crucial soteriological doctrines, failed to restore the ecclesiological practice of the home, maintaining an institutional paradigm. Finally, the study applies this analysis as a critique of contemporary “evangelical synagogues,” proposing that a return to the oikos principle is essential for the vitality and authenticity of the Church today. The methodology employed was bibliographic research, with analysis of primary and secondary sources, from a theological and historical perspective. It is concluded that the rediscovery of the home as the center of community life is an indispensable step for the renewal of the Church.