Chapter 1: Understanding the Church's Importance

For the first eighteen years of my life, attending church every Sunday was a fundamental part of our family routine. It was never presented as a choice. My parents bestowed upon me numerous gifts throughout my upbringing, but as I reflect on my life, I realize that instilling the habit of church attendance may have been their most invaluable offering.

The Church and God’s Design for Humanity

Richard Foster, in his influential work, Celebration of Discipline, highlights "corporate worship" and "community celebration" as vital practices in the Christian journey.

I understand the feelings of those who have become disenchanted with the church, given its historical shortcomings. I do not wish to downplay these failures. Additionally, I aim to avoid sounding bitter; we certainly do not need yet another pastor harboring resentment towards societal issues.

Nonetheless, I feel compelled to express a cautionary thought: we risk discarding a crucial element of Christian existence. Despite its imperfections, the church is integral to God’s design for both your life and the salvation of humanity. There is simply no alternative plan.

Let me clarify what I mean when I refer to "the church." It is not a mere building, nor an address or a bureaucratic structure. The church is a living organism—a community of individuals dedicated to embodying God's love and grace in the world.

An Important Note

Many of my friends and family serve on the frontlines against COVID-19 and its variants. They are understandably weary from this ongoing struggle, and for them, Sunday mornings often serve as their only time to recharge. Others, particularly those in high-risk categories, have legitimate concerns about the virus's spread and prefer to engage with church services online.

I want to extend my support to these individuals. Even during this retreat, I recognize your love and appreciation for the church. This message is directed at those who genuinely question the significance of church participation in their spiritual journey.

Six Reasons to Stay Committed to the Church

Here are six compelling reasons why abandoning the church can have detrimental spiritual consequences. Three are theological, while three are practical.

1. The Church is the Bride of Christ.

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy...” (Eph. 5:25–27, NIV). The Church, a divine creation, is the singular bride of Christ. There is no alternative.

The church serves as God’s vessel for disseminating the gospel message. The gospel transcends mere doctrines to become a vibrant, life-giving community represented through the church. Without the church, the essence of the gospel cannot thrive.

2. The Church is the Body of Christ.

“And he [Jesus] is the head of the body, the church...” (Col. 1:18, NIV). Detachment from the church equates to detachment from the Body of Christ. Conversely, the church without your involvement lacks essential parts. Healthy communion with Jesus is impossible apart from the church.

3. The Church is the Hope of Nations.

“His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known...” (Eph. 3:10, NIV). The church serves as the conduit through which God’s wisdom is revealed. Jesus’ Great Commission emphasizes the collective role of the church in spreading the gospel—an endeavor too vast for any single individual.

Why Do I Need To Go To Church? This video from Sandals Church delves into the significance of church attendance and worship in nurturing spiritual growth and community connections.

4. You Were Created for Community.

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship...” (Acts 2:42–44, NIV). Humans are inherently social beings, designed to live in community. While modern life offers the option of isolation, we must remember that true fulfillment arises from engaging with others within the church, despite its challenges.

5. You Were Created for a Purpose.

“But I have raised you up for this very purpose...” (Exodus 9:16, NIV). Your divine purpose is intertwined with God’s plan for the church. To truly embrace your calling, you must be an active participant in the church community.

6. You Were Created to Serve.

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...” (Mark 10:45, NIV). Genuine fulfillment comes from serving others, a practice that finds its most profound expression within the church.

I recognize that this topic is complex, and many feel disillusioned with the institution of the church, often due to valid grievances. However, I firmly believe that God has called us to remain engaged in the church and to work towards necessary changes from within.

I hope you will join me in this endeavor!

3 Reasons Why You Should GO to Church. This video outlines key motivations for attending church and emphasizes the spiritual and communal benefits that come from being part of a church family.