I rejoiced with those that said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
Psalm 122:1
A common topic of discussion among churches nowadays is the subject of church growth. Churches, of all denominations, are experiencing a continued decline in attendance. We ponder the reasons for this decline. Do we let other obligations and attractions fill our schedule until we do not have time for church? Is it lack of dedication? Or is it that social media has brought the church service right into our homes? We no longer have to get dressed and go out, we can watch the weekly sermon sitting on our couch in our pajamas. Or, does the devil have such a downward pull on the world that we are blinded to the importance of attending a worship service? The answer is probably all of these and more.
But church attendance is important. Here are just a few benefits we gain from being an active member of a church:
- When we join with like-minded believers in worship, our faith is strengthened. Through hearing and studying God’s Word, praying, singing, and praising the Lord, we grow.
- Fellowship with others is important to our emotional well-being. A supportive church family is vital in helping us through difficult times in our lives. Even if we are not experiencing problems, it is nice to feel loved and needed.
- We can encourage others. Praying for and with another is a blessing to all involved. Hebrews 10:24 says we are “to spur” or encourage each other on to love and do good.
- Being an active part of a church gives us more outlets for service and opportunities to witness to others.
- Lastly, and most importantly, we should attend church because it is the body of Christ. As a child of God we should desire to be an active part of His family.
In Hebrews 10:25 Paul admonishes his fellow Christians to “not give up meeting together”. We too should heed this reminder and share it with the world..