Must Christians Attend Church?

Want to hear an astonishing statistic?  Surveys show that around 78% of Americans claim to be Christian, but only about 18% attend church services.  My first thought was “if 78% of Americans are Christians, where are they all hiding?”  But then a more serious question popped up: must a Christian attend church?

I already can hear some of my fellow Christians: “Of course they need to attend church!  We’ve gotta fill those pews!”  But one thing needs to be clarified right up front: if “attending church” means going to a special building to observe rituals, listen to some entertaining music, and suffer through a sermon, then no, church attendance isn't necessary.  Being a spectator in such a setting isn’t biblical at all.

However, the New Testament emphasizes that it is essential for Christians to participate in a community of believers.  We are considered a family, and as such we are to meet together.  Why?  Well, for many reasons, including:

• To enjoy the fellowship of other Christians and God (1 John 1:3). 
• To continue the working out of your salvation.  I mentioned in an earlier post that salvation is an on-going process.  Sanctification does not occur only in quiet times alone; it also happens (maybe primarily happens) with other Christians, especially those who teach and evangelize (Eph 4:11-16).
• To serve others as a member of Christ’s earthly embodiment (1 Peter 4:10).
• To be held accountable by church leaders (Hebrews 13:17) and to help and hold accountable each other (1 Thess 5:14-15).

We also follow the examples of Jesus and the early church in meeting together regularly.

What about someone who says that they can meet God better while they are alone fishing?  No doubt, that can happen.  I meet with God on a tractor as I work in the fields.  But He meant for us to meet him individually and corporately.  He designed the church and designated it as the assembly of His followers, capable of destroying the very gates of Hell.  To desire only a one-on-one relationship with God separate from other believers is to desire something God never intended.

Will going to church save you?  Nope, no more than going to a garage will make you a car.  But participating in a healthy church will help you grow as a disciple and equip you on your mission from God to create other disciples.

Having trouble finding a healthy church?  We’ll tackle that in an upcoming post!