GOING TO CHURCH
CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
WHY GO TO CHURCH?
Check out Christians and Church Fellowship here.
Why Go to Church? 100 Reason to go to Church here.
Walking through the doors of a church can be a big step. Whether you haven't been to church in a while and are interested in attending again, or you've never been to church before, learning a little about how to approach going to church and what to expect when you get there will help to make the experience go more smoothly. If you're curious about what church might be able to offer you, you can learn how to choose a church that fits in with your ideas, attend a service, and consider joining.
I got to thinking about this. Why do we go to church? What benefit is there in attending church regularly for me, for you, for others? Why look for an excuse when there’s a real abundance of reasons why it makes so much sense to go to Church and to meet with your community of faith, this weekend. Check out here 100 reasons why to go to Church.
Here’s the church. Here’s the steeple. Open it up and see all the people. Remember? Our understanding of the Church will largely determine our relationship with the Church.
What you miss out by Not attending Church
1. Meeting together.
Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
2. Being a testimony to the lost world.
3. In hearing God’s Word in sermons and teaching by pastors and teachers.
4. Listening to singing and worship God together.
5. Accountability to each other and leadership in the Church.
6. Miss out on corporate prayer as a congregation.
7. Serving others.
8. Participation in the Lord’s Supper
9. Knowing you are in God’s will.
10. In growing together spiritually as a body of believers.
11. Giving your tithes and offering to God’s work.
12. Reassured living a God-centered life focused on God’s plans.
13. Being influenced by other Christians who love Jesus.
14. Experiencing and growing in the Holy Spirit in Church fellowship.
15. Helping others as Jesus has helped us.
16. There are many, many more reasons. Everything is wrapped in allowing God’s word and the Holy Spirit and body of believers to help you grow in spiritual maturity.
2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
WHAT IS THE CHURCH?
It is not a building, though there are church buildings. The church is not a group of pleasure seekers on a boat on Sunday worshiping God “in their own way.” It is not even a group of people meeting in a home for Bible study. The word church comes from the word “ecclesia,” which means “called out assembly.” It is not just a group of Christians. The church is a locally called out assembly of Christians.
Acts 2:41, “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”
The local church is made up of saved, baptized believers! The word church is mentioned 110 times in scriptures. (See also 1 Timothy 3:15-16, Ephesians 2:19, 1 Corinthians 1:2, 2 Corinthians 1:1, Galatians 1:2)
God set up three institutions: THE HOME, GOVERNMENT, AND THE CHURCH. To the church, He gave two ordinances: BAPTISM AND THE LORD’S SUPPER. Jesus Christ is to be the center of our attention in the church.
1. Christ is the head of the church.
Ephesians 5:23, “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.”
2. The church is to be subject to Christ.
Ephesians 5:24, “Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, ...
3. Christ builds the church numerically and spiritually.
Matthew 16:18, “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
So, the church is a group of baptized believers in a community who are bonded together to spread the Gospel, observing the ordinances, and building up the members to bring glory to God.
DESCRIPTION OF THE CHURCH
The church is like a hospital for the hurting. It is a college for Bible education. It is a boot camp for the training of Christian Soldiers. The church is a cafeteria for the spiritually hungry. It is also called the Bride of Christ.
1 Corinthians 12:12-14, “For as the body is one and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.”
The church here is referred to as the body of Christ. Its members all have different functions. Every member is important. Every member needs all the other members. That is why it is so important to be a member of a local church. The body needs you, and you need the body.
WHAT IS THE CHURCH?
C Compassion
H Hatred for sin
U Unction of the Holy Spirit
R Real people
C Comfort for the hurting
H Hunger for revival
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE CHURCH?
Ephesians 4:11-15, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:”
In this passage it is clear that the church is to help perfect (mature) the saints, do the work of the ministry, and edify (build up) Christians. There is to be unity and teaching about Christ. Verse 14 emphasizes that the church will guard Christians against false doctrine and deceit. The church is also to:
- Bring glory to God (Ephesians 1:6, 12; 3:21)
- Develop its members spiritually (Acts 20:28-32)
- Be God’s pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15)
- Evangelize the world (Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18-20)
EXAMPLES OF THE EARLY CHURCH
The book of Acts is a history of the church Jesus began on the seashore of Galilee. After His ascension and the power of the Holy Spirit came on the disciples, the church exploded with growth. Some Bible scholars believe the church could have been as large as 100,000!
What kind of church was it?
What should our church be like?
1. IT WAS A PRAYING CHURCH
Acts 1:14, “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.”
Acts 2:42, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
Acts 6:4, “But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.”
2. IT WAS A PASSIONATE CHURCH
Acts 3:6, “Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.”
The members cared for the hurting.
3. IT WAS A PAYING CHURCH
Acts 4:34-35, “Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” (see also Malachi 3:10-11) The people willfully gave tithes and offerings at the church for God’s work.
4. IT WAS A SOULWINNING CHURCH
Acts 2:47, “Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”
Acts 8:4, “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.”
Acts 8:35, “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him, Jesus.”
Acts 16:5, “And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.”
Acts 16:32, “And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.”
Every Christian is to be a soul winner. It is not just the Pastor’s responsibility. The growth of the church was phenomenal. (See also Acts 2:41, 4:4, and 6:7)
5. IT WAS A POWERFUL CHURCH
Acts 4:33, “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.”
The disciples were accused of turning the world upside down with their doctrine. They actually were turning the world right side up.
6. IT WAS A PREACHING CHURCH
Much of the book of Acts is made up of sermons. God blesses a church that majors on preaching.
1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
Some examples of preaching from the Book of Acts:
- Acts 2 Peter at Jerusalem
- Acts 7 Stephen before the counsel
- Acts 10 Peter at Cornelius’ house
- Acts 13:5 Paul and Barnabas at Salamis
- Acts 13:14 Paul in Antioch
- Acts 14:1 Paul and Barnabas in Iconium
- Acts 14:8 Paul in Lystra
- Acts 16 Paul in Thyatira
- Acts 17 Paul in Thessalonica
- Acts 17:10 Paul and Silas in Berea
- Acts 17:16 Paul in Athens
- Acts 18 Paul in Corinth
- Acts 19 Paul in Ephesus
- Acts 20 Paul in Troas
- Acts 28 Paul in Rome
7. IT WAS A PERSECUTED CHURCH
A growing church will be an opposed church! It is evidenced in Scripture. In Acts 5, the disciples were beaten. In Acts 8, a great persecution arose. James was beheaded in Acts 12. Paul was stoned in Acts 14. Paul and Silas were jailed in Acts 16. Peter, Paul, and many others were imprisoned at various times. One preacher said for his members to be ready to “pucker” or “duck” when they told people where they went to church. The early church grew most while under persecution. (See Exodus 1:12) It brings us closer to God.
8. IT WAS A PERSONABLE CHURCH
Soon after Saul’s conversion (who later became Paul), Ananias came to pray for him, calling him “Brother” Saul. We are encouraged to call church members by name and have an example of calling each other brother or sister. A church is to be a family.
Acts 2:42, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
Fellowship means “communion” or “sharing in common.” Christians need to spend time with other Christians. It encourages and sharpens each other’s Christianity.
THE PASTOR’S ROLE
The Holy Spirit places the man of God to head a local congregation. Acts 20:28, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”
Churches are to be independent of outside control of policy or doctrine. The Word of God, Pastor, and congregation all have their roles. The Pastor is not the head of the church. Christ is. The Pastor is more or less the manager, not the owner. He is also called the under-shepherd. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The Pastor is to follow God’s leadership when leading the church. Two New Testament names are given to the Pastor:
1. PASTOR
This title emphasizes being a shepherd who gives protection. He is to warn the people of harmful things and to stand vigil over them to make sure they are not harmed. The Pastor is like a sheepdog.
2. BISHOP
This title means overseer. The Pastor is to oversee the church to make sure it benefits the members. All must be done correctly so the members can have a church where their needs are met and which makes them all they can be.
Revelation 1-3 reveals that a church is to have one Pastor. He is to do all the duties any Christian would do plus make his priorities the Word of God and Prayer (Acts 6:4). He will be held accountable for the direction and doctrine of the church. Be loyal to your Pastor. Follow his leadership.
THE CHURCH MEMBER’S ROLE
It is a privilege and responsibility to be a member of a local Biblical church. What does God expect out of every church member?
FAITHFULNESS
Hebrews 10:25, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” A church member should be at church every time the doors are open! In John 20:24-29, Thomas missed one service, on a Sunday night, and missed Jesus. He has been labeled as Doubting Thomas ever since. The service you need the most is often the hardest one to attend.
When asked why it was so important to be faithful to the church, Charles Spurgeon responded by removing a red-hot coal from a fireplace. The coal grew darker and darker until soon he was able to touch it. He said, “That’s why!” When removed from the fire, the coal grows cold. When Christians are not around the warmth of the Word, preaching and other Christians, they soon become cold.
FOR YOU TO USE YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFT
God gives every Christian a talent or gift to be used in the local church. It makes the church run smoother and glorifies God. (See Matthew 25 and I Corinthians 12)
1 Timothy 2:1-2, “I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
Hebrews 13:7, “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.”
Hebrews 13:17, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
A church member is to pray daily for his spiritual leader: Pastor, Youth Pastor, Sunday School Teacher, Bus Captain, etc. Meditate on the Scriptures.
TITHES AND OFFERINGS
Equal sacrifice is what God expects from every church member. God wants every Christian to give at least 10% to a local congregation. More on Biblical Stewardship here.
SOULWINNING
The Pastor, Sunday School Teachers, Choir, and every member ought to be a soul winner.
UNITY
Acts 2:1, “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.”
Psalms 133:1, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
God loves unity and being in one accord among God’s people. He hates discord (Proverbs 6:19.) Be the Christian who smooths out problems, not creates them. Do not be easily offended. Do not get sidetracked on trivia. Keep your sights on winning the world to Christ and avoid anything that hinders that purpose. Stay in the Word of God much. Notice Psalms 119:65, that says: “Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word.”
ARE YOU?
Currently, a faithful member of a local Bible-believing, soul winning, preaching, separate-from-the-world, church? If you are—THANK GOD! People in some areas do not have that privilege. Many places, do not have a great church in them.
Years ago a Christian lady put a sign on her mirror so she could see it daily. It read, “If every member of my church were exactly like me, what kind of church would I have?”
What a question for us to ask ourselves!
NEED HELP IN FINDING A CARING CHURCH IN YOUR AREA
Walking through the doors of a church can be a big step. Whether you haven't been to church in a while and are interested in attending again, or you've never been to church before, learning a little about how to approach going to church and what to expect when you get there will help to make the experience go more smoothly. If you're curious about what church might be able to offer you, you can learn how to choose a church that fits in with your ideas, attend a service, and consider joining.
We offer to help you to find a church and encourage you to prayerfully seek God's direction in choosing a local church to attend. We will send 3 to 5 contact information on local nurturing Churches in your area with the Churches name, address, phone number and their website here.
Prayer: Father God, nothing is more important to me than seeking you! Please help me find the church near me where you want me to worship and learn about you. As I go to a Christian church in my area, please confirm in my spirit when I have worshipped in the one that's the best fit for my spiritual growth and service to you.
If you need help finding a nurturing Church you could ask a mature Christian friend or we can send 3 to 5 local Church information in your area here. More about Church fellowship here and a 100 reasons why you should attend a local church here.
Find A Christian Church - Church Finder
(In alphabetic order)
Assemblies Of God (A. G.) (USA) - Church Finder
Alliance Church - Worldwide (Christian and Missionary Alliance)
Alliance Church - Canada (Christian and Missionary Alliance) - Church Finder
Baptist Church - Worldwide - Church Finder
Calvary Chapel - Church Finder
Evangelical Free - Church Finder
Nazarene Church - Worldwide - Church Finder
Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada - P. A. O. C - Church Finder
Vineyard Churches - Worldwide Church Finder
Note:
This is a suggested list as there are much more Gospel, Evangelical, Independent and Mainline Preaching Church denominations to numerous to mention.
1. Use http://www.churchfinder.com/ then type your address in the box Find Churches near You
2. Or go to the Google Search engine and type in Churches in with your street address, city, and state.
Why go to Church?
You’d be crazy not to be in church this weekend, I'll see you there!
Why go to Church a 100 reasons why to go here?
Request contact information on caring Churches in your area here. Will send contact information on 3 to 5 local nurturing churches in your area.
Check out Christians and Church Fellowship here.
Why Go to Church? 100 Reason to go to Church here.
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