We are happy to help you discover God’s purpose for your life within His church, as shared in the bible. The church isn’t a building or just a Sunday service to attend. It is the worldwide gathering of those who have been redeemed by Jesus Christ, who trust in His saving work on the cross, and proclaim His resurrection from the dead. That means we cannot “do church on our own.” Instead, we make a point of regular worship, service, prayer, and study with those whom Christ has called to Himself.
Why Does the Church Exist?
A gathered people. Not just a place. The church exists to do many things. But a key idea to remember is that we do it together, and for God’s glory!
1. Matthew 16:18 – We celebrate Jesus’ victory. Every week is a celebration of Jesus’ victory over our sin and death itself!
2. Matthew 28:18-20 – Sharing the Gospel is our foundation. We need to hear the Gospel repeatedly. It’s a good thing to be reminded of God’s plan for us, and how we can share it with others.
3. John 17:18 – We are the presence of Jesus in this world. As the church, we act as ambassadors for Christ in our broken world. When we rally together, we can make plans to serve, help, and encourage others in His Name.
4. Romans 12:3-8 – We use the gifts of God to serve. Every Christian has a God-planned part in the work we do together. God intends for us to use these gifts in shared work.
5. Hebrews 10:25 – We aren’t meant to do this alone. Like a branch that grows on a tree, we only thrive when we stay connected to the church.
The Benefits of Being Committed to a Church
Making time for church in our busy week can feel like an obligation rather than the most exciting part of our week. Making church a commitment provides a sense calm in life. It focuses on our connection to God, others, and ourselves. The benefits to regularly attending church are:
1. Growing and feeling closer to God.
2. Feeling a stronger connection to community.
3. Experiencing less anxiety and depression.
4. Experiencing better marriage and family relationships.
5. Feeling that your life is healthier.
These benefits help grow our character before the Lord. Church attendance isn’t some “quick fix” for life’s problems. It is the foundation that helps us navigate them successfully and encourages others at the same time.
Most people in distress lack this life-giving connection. They wait too long to get support. It’s so hard to set things straight when you’re already struggling. Being active and committed to a church family means support in tough seasons. We all experience it and help each other through.
Why Every Christian Needs Accountability
Accountability is a normal and healthy practice within most churches. It’s really communicated in the Scriptures as seen in Romans 14:12, “Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.” It is important for every Christian to understand that when we die, we will arrive at God’s throne and must give an account for the life He gave us.
In the eyes of God, when you become a Christian, accountability isn’t meant to be a burden or religious duty, but rather that you understand the importance of staying faithful to God, to your family and to your Church.
James 5:16 says, “Confessing your faults to each other and praying for each other.” Sharing each other’s burdens, in prayer, recognizes the importance of accountability in every Christian’s life.
Accountability is something many Christians seem to avoid. In the big picture, it’s impossible to live the Christian life alone, isolated, and not connected to others.
Dig Deeper
1. Who do you know, within a church family, that can help you remain accountable to Jesus?
2. If you tend to avoid places where people can know you, and get close, make a point to talk with someone about that soon. Or call the Pastors, and seek help.
