Why Attending Church is Essential for Christian Faith

Discover the significance of attending church in the Christian faith and how it brings believers together in worship, fellowship, and service. Explore the power of gathering and the presence of God...

‍The concept of attending church has deep roots in the Christian faith. Throughout history, believers have gathered together in worship, fellowship, and service. While the physical structure of the temple in Jerusalem held great significance in the past, the destruction of the temple in AD 70 shifted the focus to something even more powerful - the gathering of believers themselves. In this article, we will explore why attending church is essential for the Christian faith and how it allows the presence of God to be made known on earth.

The Significance of the Temple in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, the temple in Jerusalem held immense importance for believers. It was the designated place where God promised His presence would be located. People would make pilgrimages from far distances, traveling hundreds of miles to worship in Jerusalem. They would bring their sacrifices to offer to the priests and turn their faces toward Jerusalem in prayer. The temple was the focal point of worship, and God's name was placed there as a symbol of His presence.

The Prophecy of the Temple's Destruction

However, the temple's significance changed when Jesus prophesied its destruction. In Mark 13:2, Jesus foretold that not one stone would be left upon another. This prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. With the temple gone, the obvious question arose - where would the presence of God be made known on earth?

The Shift from a Physical Temple to a Spiritual House

In his letter, Peter addresses this question. Writing in AD 64, he anticipates the temple's destruction and acknowledges that God's presence will no longer be confined to a physical structure. Instead, Peter reveals a profound truth - believers themselves, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house. This spiritual house is not limited to a specific location but is formed wherever communities of believers gather to worship and serve the Lord Jesus Christ together.

The Presence of God in Gathered Communities

Peter's message echoes Jesus' words in Matthew 18:20, where He promises that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is present among them. The purpose of these worshiping and serving communities is to establish the presence of God across the earth. Just as soldiers stationed in different countries represent the presence of their homeland, these communities of believers represent the presence of God in various locations. Through their worship and service, God's presence is made known.

The Importance of Church Attendance

Understanding the significance of church attendance becomes crucial in light of these truths. The Western Church must take church attendance more seriously, recognizing its role in magnifying the name of God and making His presence known in localities. Attending church is not merely a religious obligation but an opportunity to participate in the building of God's spiritual house and contribute to the manifestation of His presence on earth.

1. Spiritual Growth and Nourishment

Attending church provides an environment conducive to spiritual growth and nourishment. Within the community of believers, individuals can receive biblical teaching, engage in worship, and participate in meaningful fellowship. The gathering of believers allows for the sharing of experiences, wisdom, and encouragement, fostering personal and communal growth in faith.

2. Accountability and Support

Church attendance also promotes accountability and support within the Christian journey. Being part of a community provides a network of individuals who can offer guidance, prayer, and assistance during challenging times. The bonds formed within the church enable believers to walk alongside one another, sharing burdens, celebrating victories, and providing a sense of belonging.

3. Corporate Worship

Worship is a central aspect of the Christian faith, and attending church provides an opportunity for corporate worship. When believers gather together to worship, they unite their voices, hearts, and spirits in praise and adoration of God. This collective worship experience creates an atmosphere where the presence of God can be tangibly felt, strengthening faith and fostering a deeper connection with the divine.

4. Communion and Sacraments

Partaking in communion and other sacraments is an integral part of the Christian faith. Attending church allows believers to participate in these sacred rituals, which hold deep significance and spiritual meaning. Through the act of communion, believers remember the sacrifice of Christ and experience a tangible connection with His presence. The sacraments serve as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

5. Service and Ministry Opportunities

Church attendance opens doors to service and ministry opportunities. Within the community of believers, individuals can discover their spiritual gifts and talents and utilize them to serve others. Engaging in acts of service and ministry not only blesses those being served but also allows believers to grow in their faith and understanding of God's calling in their lives.

Conclusion

Attending church is not a mere religious obligation but an essential aspect of the Christian faith. The destruction of the physical temple in Jerusalem shifted the focus to the gathering of believers themselves, who form a spiritual house where the presence of God is made known. Church attendance provides opportunities for spiritual growth, accountability, corporate worship, communion, and service. It is through the gathering of believers that the name of God is magnified, His presence is manifested, and the Christian faith is strengthened.