Why go to Church?

Attending church is necessary for a believer's spiritual well being. For shut-ins or invalids who aren't able to go to church, the ministries on radio or TV might be the only kind of fellowship or spiritual nourishment that they get. God certainly understands the circumstances of these people, and recognizes the sincerity of their hearts. However, it is a different matter for those who could attend church but are too lazy, or put other things such as entertainment and amusements before God, or who harbor bitterness or indifference toward other believers. It is important to attend church:

(1) It is an Expression of our Love for God. (Luke 24:53). We can gather and bring God praise, thanks, and honour.

(2) It builds up our Spiritual Strength. (Rom. 10:17). Receiving the preaching and teaching of the Word of God increases our faith and builds us up spiritually.

(3) It brings a special visitation of the Lord's Presence. (Matt. 18:20). God inhabits the praise of His people (Psa. 22:3).

(4) It provides fellowship with other Christians. (1 John 1:7). A right relationship with God requires a vertical fellowship with God and a horizontal fellowship with other believers. It is not possible to love God and refuse to love the brethren.

(5) It is an act of obedience to God. (Heb. 10:24-26). We're to be considerate of our brethren, coming together to help motivate and encourage one another (James 4:17).

(6) It allows accountability to spiritual leadership. (Heb. 13:17). The Bible tells us to know them that are over us in the Lord (1 Thes. 5:12). Submission necessitates a commitment and relationship to a local body of believers and to their spiritual leaders.

(7) It combines our spiritual strength in prayer. (Matt. 18:19). Agreement in prayer with other believers has special favour with God (Lev. 26:8).

(8) It honours the Lord's Day. (Ex. 20:8). The Lord's Day (Rev. 1:10) is a day to fellowship, worship, pray and study the Word together. God is pleased for believers to honour Him on a day reserved for Him, out of their love for Him and His people. (Snippets from What People Ask About The Church, Dale A. Robbins)