Being the Church Beyond SundaySample

Why Does Going to Church Matter?

Before we discuss being the Church beyond Sunday, we should start by reminding ourselves that Sundays really are important.

At some point in their early teens, my kids began questioning the necessity of attending church. Like most kids their age, they found it challenging to sit quietly for an hour without using their electronic devices or chatting with their coterie of friends.

Brothers, I’m sure many of you wondered during the later stages of COVID-19: Why do we need to get dressed up and drive to church when we can attend the same service online without changing out of our comfortable pajamas?

However, there are several vital reasons why attending church in person is essential.

Being a Role Model

Numerous studies have shown that children learn far more from our actions than from our words. By staying in our warm, comfortable PJs and watching the service online, we teach our kids to prioritize comfort over commitment. Men should set an example by demonstrating that God's house is more important than our comfort. Remember, your actions profoundly impact the next generation, and you have the power to shape their faith journey.

We Are All Part of God’s Family

The Church is not just a building but comprises God’s people. Paul states in Ephesians 2:19, “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” We don’t celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas family dinners online, so why should our spiritual family be any different? As Paul said, we are all running a marathon (1 Corinthians 9:24), and watching from the sidelines makes men observers instead of active participants. You are a vital part of your church community, and your presence is very important.

God Created Us For Community

You can find good sermons online, but experiencing communion and fellowship in the same way is much more challenging. Church involves more than just teaching; it includes sharing meals, getting to know one another, learning from each other, and supporting one another. We worship, pray, and take communion together as one Body in Christ. The early Church serves as a great example of how followers of Jesus gathered to foster a sense of community amongst themselves (Acts 2:42-47). Let's strive to follow that example and experience the joy of communal worship that strengthens our faith and bonds us together.

Prayer: Father, help us understand that attending church is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. Amen.

Reflection: How can you be more active and involved in church?