How Important Is Attending Church?

Like the Bible, I thought church was boring and outdated. I didn’t realize churches could be different until I attended as an adult.

At first, I thought people were weird when they raised their hands during worship. But then I realized people my age attended church and that pastors explained the gospel in a way I could understand. Eventually, I discovered church could be fun as I learned about Jesus.

Everyone has an idea or expectation of what church is like.

Depending on your experience, you may think you have to attend only a certain type of church, or you may have no desire to attend church at all.

Over the past few years, some Christians have watched church online. You can livestream your favorite pastor or listen to a sermon on a podcast any time you want.

But how important is attending church in person for your walk with Christ?

The Bible says those who are planted in the house of the Lord flourish.

Surrounding yourself with a community of believers is important for all Christians, but especially for new believers.

Imagine a tree that grows in your area. Most trees grow in the ground by establishing strong roots in the soil.

Following Jesus without attending church is like a tree trying to grow outside of the ground. Soil provides nutrients for a tree to grow, and churches provide the right atmosphere for you to grow in.

Churches provide community and resources that allow your relationship with Christ to flourish. You’ll have wise counsel around you, and you’ll have others to pray with you in faith.

Throughout your walk with Christ, you’re going to face hard decisions and trials. Just like a tree can get knocked over in a storm, the devil can knock you down if you aren’t surrounded by other believers.

Planting yourself in a church is essential for your new walk with Christ. But you won’t grow as much if you only attend a service without establishing genuine connections.

Join a small group or Bible study, or a volunteer team to meet more people. And plant yourself in a church you actually like and a church that preaches from the entire Bible.

Churches can be different, so trust God to guide you to the right church and community to grow in.