“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another…”
Hebrews 10:25
Why is church attendance important? Many churches have services live-streamed and can be viewed over the internet. Sermons, devotions, and other religious programs can be seen on television or heard on the radio. There are countless Christian books that can be read that contain great devotions, and of course we can read the Bible anytime . So why is it important to attend a church service?
It is not to achieve an enormous number in attendance, although it is a blessing to see big, thriving churches. It is not to make the pastor look good or give any prestige to the members. The answer is found in this verse of scripture from Hebrews. When we attend in-person worship services, we can fellowship with other believers. We can share our praises and our trials with each other. The human interaction helps us to be more able to “encourage each other” and receive encouragement from others.
Not only does this give opportunity to encourage our fellow worshippers, but it is also encouraging to the pastor, Sunday school teachers, choir directors, and other church leaders.
There are times when listening or watching a church service from home is the only option, but the Lord’s word teaches us that this should not be our first choice or become our routine.
Let us join with the psalmist that said, I rejoiced when they said unto me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1