Q & A

Church

Q: Do I need to attend church?

God wants His children to meet with other believers on a regular basis.  He wants His people in church!  Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

One reason some believers don’t take the admonition in Hebrews seriously is that they don’t know the reason behind it.  I hear this refrain often: “I can worship God at home.  I don’t need to go to church.”  If worship was the primary reason we are commanded to meet together, that would be a strong argument.  But worship is not the only reason.

Others believe the primary reason for attending services is to be taught the Word.  But that’s not entirely true.  We can turn our radios, televisions, and computers on and hear good Bible teaching and preaching. 

On the surface, it may seem that anything we can do at church, we can do just as well at home.  So why are we commanded to meet?  The writer of Hebrews says it is to safeguard against drifting spiritually.

We’re surrounded by forces that work to blow us off course.  Sheer individual commitment alone is not enough to keep us in line.  There are times when we feel as if our faith makes no difference.  We see no fruit in our lives, and we don’t seem to be making any difference in anyone else’s life, either!  During those times, we are tempted to pull up anchor and drift, just as the world seems to be doing.

But at church we discover we are not alone.  Others share how God came through for them when they were in a tight spot.  Someone else tells about the pain he experienced when he strayed away from God. A new believer tells her story and rejoices in the Lord’s saving grace.  And something begins to happen inside of us.  We are spurred on to faithfulness!

The accountability and encouragement found in church fellowship anchor us against the tides that work to sweep us away.  We can develop a network of relationships with other believers that works to ensure we don’t abandon our faith when the pressure is on.  This is an essential element in the development of our faith.

By becoming active in a local church, you safeguard yourself against missing out on all that God has for you.  When you drift away from the family of God, it is only a matter of time before you drift away from fellowship with the Lord.  Solomon said it this way: “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” (Proverbs 13:20).

If you attend a church where you are not encouraged, you may need to consider looking for a new congregation.  If church is a purely social activity for you, you have abandoned the spiritual stimulation of assembling yourselves together. Your involvement should encourage you to remain faithful and hold you accountable in your walk with God.

Now keep in mind, there is no perfect church.  Find one that accurately presents Scripture and practically demonstrates God’s love.  Remember, too, you have a responsibility to actively use your spiritual gifts for the benefit of the body of Christ.  There must be a balance between having your needs met and allowing yourself to be used by God to meet the needs of others.