Many people today say they believe in God but do not need the church. Scripture shows that believers need the church to grow, and the church also needs every believer to be a complete body. Here is why you need the church, and why the church needs you. Scripture quotations are from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB).
Why Do Believers Need the Church?
Vietnam Evangelical Covenant Church – As Christians, we should ask ourselves whether our faith is growing or declining. A Christian does not abandon the faith overnight; it is a process, a season when the things of the world become more attractive than the things of God. And when you stop gathering with the church, is your faith still growing?
To keep your faith growing, at least three conditions must be met:
- You must read, study and love God’s Word. Success or failure in a Christian’s life depends on how you let God’s Word rule your life and how you obey its commands.
- You must pray without ceasing!
- You must actively gather with the church!
The church here is not just the building we see, but the community of God’s children gathering to worship God together, learn His Word and take part in other ministries.
“And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24–25)
How can you love God, whom you have not seen, if you do not love your brother, whom you have seen? (see 1 John 4:20). Not going to church is evidence that you have a spiritual problem. We do not go to church for comfortable facilities or a great band and skilled worship. We go to church to serve others, if we are truly mature Christians.
The church exists for three reasons: the glory of God, the edification of the saints and the mission of proclaiming the gospel.
Pastor Greg Laurie once shared that when his son died years ago, on a Sunday, he went to church that day. People told him he was so strong for not missing church even while grieving, but he told them he came that day because he felt weak and heartbroken, so he needed to be with the church.
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. A sense of awe came over every soul, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need. With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:42–47)
In the first century, the church could be described as W.E.L.L.:
- W – a Worshiping church: God dwells in our worship as we express our love to Him through close fellowship with Him.
- E – an Evangelistic church: new believers are the lifeblood of the church.
- L – a Learning church: studying and explaining Scripture is an essential part of church life. Believers come to hear and share God’s Word.
- L – a Loving church: fellowship among believers plays an important role. We should not rush out as soon as the service ends. We come to church not as customers, but as believers who come to worship God, serve and help others!
You Need the Church, and the Church Needs You
Hebrews 10:24–25 urges us not to neglect meeting together, but to encourage one another. A log pulled out of the fire soon goes cold. Our faith is the same when we live apart from our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Believers need the church not only to receive, but also to give. God has given each person gifts to build up the body of Christ. When you are absent, the church is missing a part that only you can contribute.
This week, find one way to get more involved: join a small group, take on a serving role, or simply arrive early to welcome newcomers. Those small steps help you move from churchgoer to true member of God’s family.
You may also like: Church Small Groups and Hurt in the Church.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for placing us in the church, the body of Christ. Help us not to drift apart, but to love, build up and serve one another. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Article: Tuyết Mai
Adapted from: ChristianPost.com
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