The Joy of the Journey
Why the Church is Important
Today, attending church is often viewed as an optional activity. With busy schedules and numerous other commitments, individuals can easily neglect regular church attendance. However, for Christians, the church is an essential part of their spiritual journey and has been emphasized throughout the Bible as an important aspect of their faith. According to Barnagroup.com, as of 2023, approximately 16% of people who left the church during the pandemic have not returned. Although some congregations may be experiencing growth. Most congregations in America are seeing a sharp decline in church attendance. In this article, we will discuss the importance of the church and why we need it more than ever.
First and foremost, we need the Church because Jesus died for it and purchased it with his blood. In Acts 20:28-29, “And now beware! Be sure that you feed and shepherd God’s flock—his church, purchased with his blood—for the Holy Spirit is holding you responsible as overseers. I know full well that after I leave you, false teachers, like vicious wolves, will appear among you, not sparing the flock.” We are living in a time where we are facing false teachers and vicious wolves. We need the protection of each other and strong Shepherds that will fight off the enemy of our souls. (Let me just say we must pray for your church’s pastors and leaders. They need you on their side.)
A true community is a significant need people are missing in their lives today. The church provides a sense of community and fellowship with other believers. In the book of Acts, we see the early Christians coming together as a community, gathering in homes and public places to worship and share their faith. In the church, individuals can find support, encouragement, and accountability among fellow believers. This sense of belonging and connection is vital for spiritual growth and maintaining a strong faith in a world that can often be hostile and discouraging.
Moreover, the church serves as a place of learning and growing in one’s faith. In Ephesians 4:11-16, it is stated that the church is meant to equip and build up believers, helping them to mature in their relationship with God. The church provides opportunities for individuals to study the Bible, participate in small groups, and attend sermons that challenge and deepen their understanding of God’s Word. This enables believers to develop a strong foundation in their faith and be better equipped to face life’s challenges.
Furthermore, the church is where believers can unite to worship and glorify God. Hebrews 10:25 encourages believers not to neglect gathering together but to exhort one another and worship God in unity. When believers come together to lift their voices in praise and thanksgiving, it strengthens their relationship with God and unites them as one body in Christ. Worshiping with fellow believers also reinforces the importance of putting God at the center of their lives and reminds them of the ultimate purpose of their faith.
The church is also a place of spiritual nourishment, where believers can receive guidance and counsel from their pastors and church leaders. Just as shepherds care for their sheep, pastors, and leaders are responsible for guiding and nurturing the spiritual well-being of their congregation. When believers face challenges or uncertainties in their faith, the church should provide a safe and knowledgeable place to seek guidance and advice.
A deeper look reveals the church is a place of service and mission. In the book of Matthew, Jesus commands his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. The great commission is not just for the disciples but for all believers; the church is a launching pad for fulfilling this commandment. Through various outreach programs and missions, the church provides opportunities for believers to serve and spread the gospel to those in need. This benefits the community and strengthens believers’ faith as they live out their Christ purpose.
In conclusion, the church is essential to a believer’s spiritual journey. Beyond just attending Sunday services, it provides a sense of community, opportunities for growth, a place for worship and spiritual nourishment, and a platform for service and mission. It is where believers can find support, guidance, and accountability and grow in their relationship with God. The Bible emphasizes the importance of the church, and as believers, it is our responsibility to prioritize and actively participate in the church’s life. As the saying goes, “The church is not a building, but the people,” and it is through the church that individuals can experience the love of Christ and fulfill their purpose in Him. My challenge is this: Be the Church!
