This might ruffle some feathers, but we’re here to grow—not stay stagnant. Attending church isn’t just a tradition or a suggestion; it’s a vital part of walking with Christ. In today’s world, many see church as optional. Some choose to worship alone, watch sermons online, or avoid Christian gatherings altogether. But God never intended for us to walk this journey in isolation. The Bible makes it clear: believers are called to gather, to encourage one another, and to grow together in faith (Hebrews 10:25).
Still, many Christians hesitate to commit to a church community. Some have been hurt by past experiences, others believe they can worship just as well on their own, and some simply don’t see the point. If you’ve ever had those thoughts, you’re not alone. But before you write off church, let’s look deeper at why being part of a community of believers is not only beneficial—but essential—for your spiritual growth.
Did you know we are called to be the church, not just go to church? This distinction matters. The early believers didn’t just show up once a week—they lived as the church, every single day. And that’s the model we’re called to follow.
Biblical Foundation for Church Attendance
Our anchor passage is Acts 2:42-47. This gives us a beautiful picture of what it truly looks like to live as the body of Christ. Let’s break it down piece by piece:
The Teaching
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching. This represents the kind of biblical instruction we receive when we gather together as a church body. When that teaching is God-led, it will always align with Scripture. God’s Word is our standard for discerning whether someone is truly teaching truth or leading people astray.
Typically, the leader is the one teaching, although many within the church may have the gift to teach. This role is incredibly important—it’s about leading God’s people while staying rooted in God, the true Source. When taken lightly, it can cause harm both to the one teaching and to those being taught. That’s why James 3:1 warns us that teachers will be judged with greater strictness. That’s how seriously God views this responsibility.
The Fellowship
Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to neglect gathering together. One of the reasons people resist attending church is because community brings accountability—and sometimes discomfort. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.”
To be shaped more into Christ’s image, we have to be willing to be refined. Growth isn’t always comfortable. It takes vulnerability, honesty, and surrender. We need fellow believers to walk beside us, to call us higher, and to help keep us on the narrow path—and we’re called to do the same for others.
Prayer as a Community
Recently, I witnessed firsthand the power of community prayer. Without going into too much detail, a group of us gathered to pray for a woman in her time of need, and God moved mightily on her behalf. Prayer matters.
Jesus Himself said in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” There is a unique strength and presence when believers pray together.
Breaking of Bread
This isn’t just about communion—it’s about sharing life. Breaking bread means spending time together outside of formal church settings. It’s about meals, conversations, and real connection. The early believers didn’t limit their fellowship to Sundays. They built relationships through daily life.
They Had All Things in Common
This part of the passage shows us a beautiful kind of unity. The early church lived with open hands. Whatever someone needed, if it was within the community, it was shared. No one was left lacking.
They didn’t just share possessions—they shared burdens. If one was going through something, the whole body came together like a family to support and respond. Acts 4:32 tells us the believers were united in heart and soul, sharing everything. That’s the heart posture we’re called to have.
Major Note
This kind of lifestyle wasn’t limited to Sundays. Scripture says they gathered day by day. There was no division between their Christian life and their daily life—it was all one and the same.
And as they lived this way, God added to their numbers daily those who were being saved. Miracles, signs, and wonders were done through the apostles, and praise continuously went up to God.
Our Role Today
It’s the Holy Spirit who draws people to Jesus—but we are called to be examples and encouragers on this walk. Matthew 28:19 reminds us of our mission: to make disciples. Our job is to live out our faith and help each other move forward, letting the Holy Spirit work and staying rooted in God’s Word. God honors every effort we make to stay faithful and focused.
That doesn’t mean it’s easy. Community is messy—because we’re all human, and we live in a fallen world. But we’re not doing it alone. We have the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us every step of the way. Our part is to walk forward—in faith, and in unity.
Reflection Questions:
- What is stopping me from going to church instead of watching online?
- What can I do this week to ensure I am taking steps to get plugged into a community of believers?
God loves you. You are beloved by Him. He didn’t make us to experience this life on our own. Trust the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.
Final Thought
I encourage you to read the scriptures spoken about in this post for yourself and let God speak to you.
Prayer
God, You are amazing. Thank You for this opportunity to teach about the importance of getting together as a family of believers. Thank You for your call of us to be the church and not just go to church. Thank You that we are able to partner with You in the care of new (and old) believers. I pray that this post helps them understand the weight of why we life together in this way. I thank You for teaching me this so that I am in turn able to teach others. I pray this blog post will go forth and do exactly what You intended it to do. I give You all the honor, praise, and glory God because You are worthy of it all. I love You! In Jesus name, amen!
Explore the other posts! If there is a topic I haven’t spoken about, please leave it in the comments!
Terry’ana xx