For some, attending church every week feels like a routine that can easily be skipped, especially in a world where faith can be practiced in many different ways. According to a 2018 Pewforum.org report, 61% of churchgoers say they attend to feel closer to God, while many non-churchgoers believe they can nurture their faith outside the church walls. So, which approach is right?
In today’s society, it might seem like the choice is ours to make, but the Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of gathering together as believers. Jesus Christ invites us to meet Him in a special way on the day set aside to remember His victory over death, equipping us to sustain our faith until He returns. God, in His wisdom, has placed people around us not just to share the gospel but also to encourage and support us in our spiritual journey.
Church isn’t just about attending a service; it’s about experiencing God’s promised presence (Matthew 18:20) as we worship together out of love and obedience (Colossians 3:16). When the church operates according to biblical principles, it’s not just about filling seats on Sunday—it’s about filling our communities with the love and message of Christ throughout the week.
As John Piper puts it, “The reason Christians go to church on Sunday is because we have been rescued from our sins, united with a risen, living Christ, and with each other through faith in Jesus.”
So, what do you think? Is weekly church attendance essential to your faith, or do you believe your relationship with God can thrive outside of traditional church gatherings? Let’s discuss how you practice your faith and what role church plays in your spiritual life.
By the way…
Here’s an article on what the Bible has to say about going to church
I think we should go weekly, even if we go online for a certain reason. But also connect with others from our church regularly and pray.
I realize that some can not get to church if transportation, medical or being in a facility. We are to be knitted together and being with our church family and worshipping is important.
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In Hebrews 10:24-25 the Bible tells us that yes we should meet together every week if possible with other believers. This is for strength in your Christian walk and encouragement as you worship together with other like minded Christians.
The enemy loves nothing better than a Christian who thinks it is unnecessary to attend church with other believers. Very slowly and with patience he will pull you away from The Word of God. You may suddenly have less time to study your Bible, and not even notice it. You may be enticed to watch things on TV that you usually don’t watch.
The enemy is a Master at what he does to pull Christians away from God’s Word. Do not think that Satan cannot pull you away simply because you may know the Bible well. That is a deception within itself.
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Meeting with other believers does not require a building or formal setting. I have had as much if not more growth from meeting in a coffee shop than in a traditional setting.
Bring a Lone Ranger is possible, but not optimal- and a lonely journey since humans are social by nature
While being a Lone Ranger is possible, I do not think that it is the Lord’s intent for his children to disassociate themselves from his bride. Scripture reminds us again and again that we are a body of believers. We need each other and should work together towards his goals, not ours.
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In my opinion, if someone can’t get out to church due to medical issues, then we as a body should go to that individual. If they can’t get out to church because of transportational issues, then someone from the body should be assigned that job weekly.
The devotional book, Sunday Matters by Paul Tripp, contains some good material to help us focus on what corporate worship means and why we should attend.
A few quotes:
Corporate worship is designed by God to give you eyes to see, a mind to understand, and an open heart to receive the bad news of the gospel (sin) and the good news of the gospel (grace) in ways that transform your heart.
Corporate worship is designed to remind you of your identity in Christ so you won’t waste looking for your identity elsewhere.
Corporate worship is designed to turn your fear into trust, your complaints into praise, and your independence into willing submission.