Why Belonging to a Church Community Holds Significant Importance
Happy Friday! Have you also noticed how swiftly the days are passing? It feels like Monday was just here, and suddenly, we have found ourselves at the end of the week. Nonetheless, I'm not complaining, as life has been interesting during this season, and I've learned to embrace each day as it comes. Before we dive into today’s topic, I’d like to thank many of you for reading the piece on “open” marriages, and sending in your responses. I like reading your emails/comments, so do not shy away from sharing them. Please continue to subscribe, read and share with others, so this publication can keep growing. It is my desire that we get to 100 subscribers at the end of this month (we are already at 93).
In this article, I'd like to address those who believe that attending church isn't necessarily a crucial aspect of one's Christian faith. While there might be some validity to that argument if you happen to reside in an area where attending church is practically impossible, for many of us living in places where we can freely practice our Christian faith, we should cherish this privilege given to us by God. So, let's explore the significance of being part of a church community.
One Sunday, I was graciously invited to a heartwarming baby shower hosted by my church. Witnessing the genuine joy and camaraderie among the women present, I realized the profound impact of sisterhood within the body of Christ. This experience, combined with the newfound appreciation for the church community, has made Sundays my favorite day of the week.
My family members do not understand why I willfully drive 45 minutes (on a good day) to church and bible study every week. In response to my sister-in-law who thought it to be ridiculous as fuel prices have increased significantly, I said: “it is because of the community.” To which she replied, “who community help?” The importance of being part of a healthy church community cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in our Christian walk, offering support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Why Being Part of a Church Community Matters
Strength in Unity: The Bible's proverbial wisdom, "as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another," underscores the vital role of community in shaping our lives. Being surrounded by fellow believers in a church community provides a safe space for encouragement, prayer, and constructive correction.
Shared Experiences: When we gather and share our life journeys with others, we find solace and hope in knowing that others have overcome similar challenges. This shared strength bolsters our faith, giving us the confidence to face trials and tribulations.
Accountability and Growth: A church community provides a support system for personal growth and accountability. If you are not a member of a church community, there may be no one to help you overcome your struggle with secret sins or any other challenges you might have. A church community guides you down the right path, offering advice, and helping you overcome struggles while not negating the teachings of the bible. It becomes a family that lifts you up when you fall and forgives you when you stumble.
The Pitfall of Online Church
The advent of online churches brought about convenience and accessibility during the pandemic. I could be in Nigeria and attend a live service in California (the beauty of technology). However, now that things have calmed down and people have returned to normalcy, there are those who see this service as a substitute for attending a physical service. Nothing irks me more than hearing – I didn't feel like going to church today, so I watched the worship service online, (I might be ruffling some feathers here).
We've all seen what happens when someone streams a church service. While the pastor's voice serenades the background, Instagram is open with constant scrolling. While prayer is ongoing, they frequently take short breaks to respond to messages and phone calls. It should not be like this.
The local church is a place to connect deeply, learn, serve, and share life (and even resources) with others. The New Testament is replete with examples of believers encouraging one another - greet this person for me, pray for me, I am glad you came to see me…These are the benefits you can't have if you're in one country and your church is in another, or if you just watch services online.
Dealing with Church Hurt
It would be remiss not to acknowledge the pain some have endured within church communities. Church hurt can leave deep scars, leading some to distance themselves from church entirely. However, it's crucial to allow oneself time to heal and to seek reconciliation if possible. Remember that the enemy seeks to isolate you so he can wreak all sorts of havoc on you. According to the Bible, we should not be unaware of our adversary's schemes.
So, if you have been hurt by your church community, understand that disappointments are a natural part of life. And in a place where things can be forgiven and reconciled, that should take place. Where there is no room for reconciliation in cases of abuse and other sinful matters, then you should prayerfully consider another gospel centered church.
Embracing the power of church community is transformative for our Christian walk. The fellowship, encouragement, and accountability it provides are indispensable, helping us navigate life's challenges. While online services have their place, nothing can replace the personal connection and support found within a physical church community. God created it this way to easily provide a family (in every sense of the word) for his people.
Acts 4:32 says about the early church: “Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.” Verse 34-35 also says, “There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.”
So, let us cherish the community within the body of Christ and continue to grow together in faith and love. With these few words of mine (and the bible) I hope I have been able to convince you to resume going to church if you haven’t been doing so.
What are your thoughts? Do you think attending physical church is any different than doing so online? Leave your comments below or respond to this email. Also remember to like, and share this article with others. If you haven’t subscribed, click the subscribe now button to receive our articles directly to your inbox, and to consider becoming a paid subscriber to continue supporting my work. Check out the related posts below: