Why Go to Church?

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)

 Did you know that following Jesus and loving His church are inseparable?

According to the most recent studies, approximately 20% of Americans regularly attend church. That means most people spend weekends somewhere other than in faith communities.

But today’s verse tells you not to give up meeting with other believers. Why? 

Here are three essential reasons to regularly commit to your church:

1. The Church is the body of Christ. The Church is different from every other organization on earth in that it is the only one with Christ as the head. Christ loved and gave Himself for this community, and through it, He fills the world with His presence. 

As Ephesians 1:22 declares, “And God placed all things under his [Jesus’] feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Committing to the church is a commitment to Christ Himself.

2. The Church is where God’s mission begins. Connection, worship, and studying the Scripture with others strengthens your faith and brings needed encouragement. Instead of being distracted or too busy, you grow in “love and good deeds”.

You join a community that follows Christ’s commands to serve the poor, share the Gospel, and give generously and joyfully toward the mission of God. The Church is not only a place to go, but a community from which to be sent out.

3. The Church is your ultimate, eternal family. Your faith family on earth is also your eternal family in heaven. The relationships you form within the Church with fellow Christ-followers will last in this life and the life to come. In the words of professor and theologian N.T. Wright, “Love is not a duty; it is our destiny.” In the church, you learn the pain and power of loving well. And staying committed to this community matures your faith, helping you become more like Jesus.

Commit to your local church community and you will experience the benefits and blessing of sharing in the very heart of Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for including me in Christ’s body through the church. Help me commit to these relationships so that I might grow and share in Your mission of love in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.