What's The Point of Going to Church?
What’s the Point of Going to Church?
Have you ever wondered why we willingly subject ourselves to experiences that are uncomfortable, painful, or even torturous? Think about it: every six months, I voluntarily let a dental hygienist poke and prod around in one of the most sensitive parts of my body—my mouth. Despite knowing the discomfort I’ll endure, I schedule these appointments because I understand the benefits.
Similarly, I visit a chiropractor monthly, enduring painful adjustments because I know it helps keep me healthy.
Even when I reluctantly visit the Super Market, a place that guarantees some level of frustration, I do so because I need to.
So, why would I put myself through these experiences? Because I know the benefits far outweigh the discomfort.
Now, let’s talk about church. We are fortunate that at Crystal River Church of God, my church, most of our experiences are pleasant and uplifting, but let’s be honest—sometimes attending church can be inconvenient or uncomfortable. In fact, if we give the enemy enough space, he can talk even the most dedicated person out of coming to church. But the truth is, just like those other experiences, the benefits of attending church far outweigh any temporary discomforts.
Let's explore those benefits, shall we?
1. What Does the Bible Say About Church?
The Bible provides a clear answer on the importance of gathering together as believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT) says, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Remember this, when the enemy sows seeds of doubt over physically attending church: The Word of God is the final authority on all matters of the Christian walk, including church attendance.
That brings up another great question:
2. What Even is the Church, Anyway?
There’s a lot of talk about what the church really is. You may have heard phrases like, “The Church has left the building,” or “We are the Church.”
Both are correct, but context matters.
During the pandemic, we had to leave the physical building, which was necessary and even beneficial in some ways. However, this does not mean that the church cannot or should not meet in a building.
The phrase “We are the Church” refers to the body of believers, not a physical structure. The New Testament uses the Greek word kuriakon, meaning “belonging to the Lord,” and ecclesia, which originally referred to an assembly called out by legitimate authority.
The church, in biblical terms, is always a gathering of people. The danger lies in the modern interpretation where people say, "we are the church", but in fact mean “I am the Church”; and that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe—that we can do this alone.
Friend, life is simply too complicated to do alone! So, as a student of history, let's ask this question:
3. What Was the Early Church’s Practice?
If we want the miracles and power of the book of Acts, we must follow the practices of the early church. Acts 2:46-47 (NABRE) tells us, “Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes.”
The early church met every day, both in a physical building and in small group settings. The regular practice of meeting together was crucial for their growth and unity.
Remember this, when the enemy tries to isolate you from the body:
4. Disconnection is the First Step Toward Death
Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 (NLT) that the church is one body with many parts. Each part is necessary for the body to function properly.
Disconnection from the body of believers is the first step toward spiritual death. Just as a branch disconnected from the vine will wither and die, so will a believer who isolates themselves from the church.
When the enemy separates us from the church, we miss out on so much. Here's a little bit of what we can miss:
5. This is What Happens at Church!
It's safe to say that attending church is not just about entering a building; it’s about being part of a community that is essential for our spiritual health and growth. The discomforts we may face are far outweighed by the benefits of being connected to the body of Christ. So, the next time you wonder if it’s worth going to church, remember: it’s not just about you—it’s about being part of something much bigger, something life-giving.
Have you ever wondered why we willingly subject ourselves to experiences that are uncomfortable, painful, or even torturous? Think about it: every six months, I voluntarily let a dental hygienist poke and prod around in one of the most sensitive parts of my body—my mouth. Despite knowing the discomfort I’ll endure, I schedule these appointments because I understand the benefits.
Similarly, I visit a chiropractor monthly, enduring painful adjustments because I know it helps keep me healthy.
Even when I reluctantly visit the Super Market, a place that guarantees some level of frustration, I do so because I need to.
So, why would I put myself through these experiences? Because I know the benefits far outweigh the discomfort.
Now, let’s talk about church. We are fortunate that at Crystal River Church of God, my church, most of our experiences are pleasant and uplifting, but let’s be honest—sometimes attending church can be inconvenient or uncomfortable. In fact, if we give the enemy enough space, he can talk even the most dedicated person out of coming to church. But the truth is, just like those other experiences, the benefits of attending church far outweigh any temporary discomforts.
Let's explore those benefits, shall we?
1. What Does the Bible Say About Church?
The Bible provides a clear answer on the importance of gathering together as believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT) says, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Remember this, when the enemy sows seeds of doubt over physically attending church: The Word of God is the final authority on all matters of the Christian walk, including church attendance.
That brings up another great question:
2. What Even is the Church, Anyway?
There’s a lot of talk about what the church really is. You may have heard phrases like, “The Church has left the building,” or “We are the Church.”
Both are correct, but context matters.
During the pandemic, we had to leave the physical building, which was necessary and even beneficial in some ways. However, this does not mean that the church cannot or should not meet in a building.
The phrase “We are the Church” refers to the body of believers, not a physical structure. The New Testament uses the Greek word kuriakon, meaning “belonging to the Lord,” and ecclesia, which originally referred to an assembly called out by legitimate authority.
The church, in biblical terms, is always a gathering of people. The danger lies in the modern interpretation where people say, "we are the church", but in fact mean “I am the Church”; and that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe—that we can do this alone.
Friend, life is simply too complicated to do alone! So, as a student of history, let's ask this question:
3. What Was the Early Church’s Practice?
If we want the miracles and power of the book of Acts, we must follow the practices of the early church. Acts 2:46-47 (NABRE) tells us, “Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes.”
The early church met every day, both in a physical building and in small group settings. The regular practice of meeting together was crucial for their growth and unity.
Remember this, when the enemy tries to isolate you from the body:
4. Disconnection is the First Step Toward Death
Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 (NLT) that the church is one body with many parts. Each part is necessary for the body to function properly.
Disconnection from the body of believers is the first step toward spiritual death. Just as a branch disconnected from the vine will wither and die, so will a believer who isolates themselves from the church.
When the enemy separates us from the church, we miss out on so much. Here's a little bit of what we can miss:
5. This is What Happens at Church!
- Relationships Develop: The church is one of the greatest relationship builders. It’s a place where you meet like-minded people, as well as those who challenge you to grow.
- Correction is Found: Correction is necessary for growth. The church is a place where we can receive guidance and realign our perspectives.
- Miracles Happen: The early church witnessed miracles, and we still see them today in the lives transformed, marriages restored, and the sick healed.
- Safety is Found: There is spiritual and emotional safety in being part of a church community.
- Salvation Happens: The church is a place where people come to know Christ and find salvation. I want to be a part of that Vision!
It's safe to say that attending church is not just about entering a building; it’s about being part of a community that is essential for our spiritual health and growth. The discomforts we may face are far outweighed by the benefits of being connected to the body of Christ. So, the next time you wonder if it’s worth going to church, remember: it’s not just about you—it’s about being part of something much bigger, something life-giving.
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