Why Go to Church? 6 Important Reasons Why We Need Fellowship

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Why should we go to church according to the Bible? This question has become increasingly relevant in our digital age, where virtual connections often replace physical gatherings and Sunday mornings compete with countless other activities. Yet, the Bible presents compelling reasons why gathering with other believers remains as crucial today as it was in the early church.

In exploring this topic, we’ll delve into the biblical foundation for church attendance, uncover the divine purpose behind gathering together, examine the practical benefits for believers, and address common objections people raise today. Whether you’re a longtime church member questioning your commitment or someone who’s never understood the point of regular church attendance, this exploration will offer fresh insights from Scripture.

Just as a single coal quickly loses its heat when separated from the fire, Christians need the warmth and energy of regular fellowship to maintain their spiritual vitality. The early believers understood this principle, which is why they devoted themselves to meeting together despite facing severe persecution.

1. Biblical Foundation for Church Attendance

Remember when you tried to light a campfire with just one log? It doesn’t work very well, does it? That’s exactly what the writer of Hebrews had in mind when he urged believers, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another” (Hebrews 10:25). Just like logs need to be together to maintain a strong fire, Christians need each other to keep their faith burning bright.

The early church set a powerful example of community. Acts 2:42 tells us, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Notice the word “devoted” – this wasn’t casual or occasional gathering; it was a lifestyle. These believers understood something fundamental about God’s design for His people.

This foundation goes back to creation itself. God declared, “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18), establishing a principle that extends beyond marriage to the entire community of faith. Throughout Scripture, we see God working through communities – the nation of Israel, the disciples, the early church. Even Jesus, who often withdrew to pray alone, regularly attended synagogue services (Luke 4:16).

The Bible also teaches that we’re all part of one body – Christ’s church. Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:27, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Think about that – a body can’t function if its parts are disconnected. Each member needs the others to fulfill their God-given purpose.

2. The Purpose of Church Gathering

Last Sunday, Sandy, a new member of our congregation, asked me, “Why do we do all this – the singing, the preaching, the potlucks?” It’s a fair question that deserves a thorough answer. The Bible outlines several clear purposes for church gatherings, each designed to build up believers and glorify God.

First and foremost, corporate worship holds a special place in God’s heart. Psalm 34:3 invites us to “Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together.” There’s something powerful about joining voices and hearts in praise. As Matthew 18:20 promises, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

The church gathering serves multiple biblical purposes:

– Teaching and discipleship (2 Timothy 4:2)

– Fellowship and encouragement (Acts 2:42)

– Corporate prayer (Acts 12:5)

– Breaking bread together (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)

– Using spiritual gifts to serve others (1 Peter 4:10)

3. Benefits of Regular Church Attendance

“I used to think I could grow spiritually just fine on my own,” Mike shared during our men’s breakfast. “But after a year of isolation during the pandemic, I realized how much I needed this community.” His story echoes what many discover about the vital benefits of regular church attendance.

The Bible describes numerous advantages of consistent gathering:

– Spiritual growth through teaching (Ephesians 4:11-13)

– Mutual encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

– Accountability and support (Galatians 6:1-2)

– Opportunities to serve (Romans 12:4-8)

– Protection from spiritual drift (Hebrews 3:13)

Consider David’s words in Psalm 122:1: “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD.'” This joy comes from experiencing God’s presence in community. Regular church attendance provides structured opportunities for spiritual development that are hard to replicate alone.

Studies have even shown that regular church attendance correlates with better mental health, stronger marriages, and more resilient children. As Solomon wisely noted, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). This principle applies perfectly to the strength we find in church community.

Remember, church attendance isn’t about checking a religious box – it’s about positioning yourself to receive all that God has designed for your spiritual growth and well-being. As one pastor often says, “Missing church doesn’t make you a bad Christian, but being there sure makes being a good one easier!”

4. Addressing Common Objections

“I can worship God just as well on a hiking trail,” my friend Tom declared over coffee. It’s a sentiment I hear often, and while there’s truth in God’s omnipresence, this perspective misses some crucial biblical principles. Let’s tackle some common objections head-on with biblical wisdom and practical insights.

The “I can worship anywhere” argument overlooks the unique aspects of corporate worship. Yes, we can and should worship God everywhere (1 Thessalonians 5:17), but Scripture also emphasizes the special nature of gathering together. Consider Psalm 34:3: “Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together.” There’s a multiplicative effect when believers unite in worship.

Another frequent objection is “Churches are full of hypocrites.” True, churches aren’t perfect – they’re hospitals for sinners, not museums for saints. Jesus addressed this directly in Matthew 13:24-30 with the parable of the wheat and tares. The church has always been a mixed body of imperfect people striving to follow Christ. As Paul reminds us in Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

5. Making Church Attendance Meaningful

Think of church attendance like a workout – you get out what you put in. Lisa, a long-time member of our congregation, transformed her church experience when she shifted from being a passive spectator to an active participant. “I used to just show up,” she shares. “Now I show up with purpose.”

Making church attendance meaningful involves several biblical principles:

– Coming prepared to worship (Psalm 100:4)

– Engaging actively in the service (1 Corinthians 14:26)

– Building relationships with others (Romans 12:10)

– Using your gifts to serve (1 Peter 4:10)

– Arriving with an expectant heart (Hebrews 4:16)

The early church modeled this engaged approach. Acts 2:42-47 describes believers who were fully invested in church life – learning, fellowshipping, breaking bread, and praying together. They didn’t just attend; they participated wholeheartedly.

6. The Impact on Family and Society

When the Martinez family began attending church regularly, they noticed changes extending far beyond Sunday mornings. Their teenage son started making better choices, their marriage grew stronger, and they found themselves more involved in community service. This ripple effect of church attendance is exactly what Scripture predicts.

The Bible shows how faithful church attendance impacts:

– Family Unity: “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15)

– Children’s Faith: “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6)

– Community Service: “Let your light shine before others” (Matthew 5:16)

– Cultural Influence: “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13)

Research consistently confirms what Scripture teaches – regular church attendance correlates with:

– Stronger marriages

– Better-adjusted children

– Increased community involvement

– Greater life satisfaction

– More robust support networks

Consider Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” When churches function as God intended, they become beacons of hope and transformation in their communities.

The church serves as a multigenerational influence, passing faith and values from one generation to the next. As Psalm 145:4 declares, “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” This legacy-building aspect of church attendance creates a lasting impact that extends far beyond our individual lives.

Conclusion:

Regular church attendance isn’t just about following a religious routine or maintaining tradition – it’s about participating in God’s design for our spiritual growth and community impact. As we’ve explored, the Bible provides clear guidance about the importance of gathering together, not as a burden but as a gift that enriches our lives and strengthens our faith. Whether you’re just beginning to consider church attendance or looking to deepen your commitment, remember that every believer plays a vital role in the body of Christ. By choosing to prioritize church attendance, you’re not just fulfilling a biblical mandate; you’re positioning yourself to experience the fullness of God’s plan for your spiritual journey.