It is a legitimate question, “Why do I need the church?” If I’m a Christian, I’ve repented of my sin, I’ve turned to Christ, I’m saved – why do I need to be part of one of those thousands of fragmented little groups called churches? “I feel close to God when I’m at the lake. I worship in my own way. I don’t need the church.” I understand that sentiment. I’m the first to acknowledge the church is less than perfect, often frustrating and too often a poor example. But you do need the church. Let me give you the short answer as to why you need the church. You need the church because the local church is a visible, tangible, real-world expression of the body of Christ.
You are part of a body. You cannot live the Christian life in isolation. It is not a solo act you are part of a group. A group of imperfect people stumbling towards holiness and growing in grace. That’s another reason you need the church, because sanctification is a community project. We need each other to learn what it means to love and forgive. You also need the church to worship appropriately.
One last thing – not only do you need the church, the church needs you! We need your gifts, your talents, your insights…we need you. When you neglect your attendance it not just your life that is affected it harms all of us. We are robbed of what you have to give. We are deprived of God’s work through you. We are spiritually impoverished by your neglect. So please don’t forsake our gathering together. If not for your sake for ours. If not for ours for the glory of Christ. Perhaps the church is more important than you thought.
I’ll see you Sunday.
Rod