Why You Should Go To Church

Photo by John Price on Unsplash

There is a pervasive thought that people have: I can be a Christian without going to church. And when I use the term ‘go to church’ I am talking about the popular understanding that we have of gathering together in a church building to worship and learn and fellowship.

When you search the scriptures, you will find that you can’t really be a follower of Jesus unless you go to church. Neglecting that essential means you simply cannot live a fully Christian life! Consider the following scripture.

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

In order to be obedient to this scripture, you must go to church!

Inspire Love and Good Works

We are to stir one another up to love and good works. The very best way to do that is face to face – by gathering together. This is clearly a mutually beneficial activity that gives and receives – what we all need for our spiritual health and growth. How do we do this?

By example

Living an exemplary life of following Jesus, including going to church, inspires others, demonstrating that it is possible to live the abundant life. When we see others who are solid in their faith it is encouraging for us. We are to live a life of love and compassion, mercy and grace. When we give abundant love as an example to others, they are also inspired to give love as well!

By encouragement

Directly encouraging one another is powerful. When we encourage others, we find that our spirits are lifted as well. Encouragement is a gift that gives on both ends! Lives are changed, outlooks are transformed and joy and peace are magnified as we share this with one another.

Through teaching

Learning God’s Word is one area where teachers are invaluable. Spending time under godly teachers strengthens our faith and equips us to do great things for God’s Kingdom. That is always best done in person. Even though we may have become accustomed to online worship and teaching, it is far better to experience this in person.

Through mentoring

Discipleship means mentoring. It means one on one time with another believer to guide them and help them follow Jesus. Jesus mentored 12 men who became essential to the birth of the church. Over the years, we can mentor many people – men, women, boys, girls – and make a lasting impact.

By persuasion

I am endeavoring to persuade you that being in church is good for you and good for the church. So often I have heard people tell me that they were glad they came to church. The experience of worshiping together, sharing fellowship and being in the presence of God is incredibly fortifying for our faith.

We live in an age when more and more people are attending church less and less often. Our culture is drifting steadily away from godly values. This negatively affects family health, moral standards and even physical and mental health.

We really do need each other!

Your Turn

How are you doing in your church attendance? When you read this I would like you to become determined to go to church this week. It is God’s will for you and you will be better for it – and so will your church!