Why Do We Go To Church

1.    Introduction

In today’s world, attending church is often associated with purity, faith, and devotion to God. Many who are outside the church still profess belief in God, and sometimes their outward behavior seems more virtuous than that of some churchgoers. This can lead to the mistaken belief that going to church is insignificant. However, both these views miss the wisdom of the Bible and overlook the call to worship in Truth and Spirit.

Attending church is not simply about following human beliefs or traditions. It is not about patriarchy or conformity. It is not a tradition anchored on human philosophy or the so called theological express. Not even because it is a controlled mechanism.

This is why attending Church should be viewed from a biblical perspective. Jesus established the Church as the manifestation of God's Kingdom on Earth (Matthew 16:15-18), a place for preparing souls for Heaven. And this place, or kingdom on Earth will not be destroy no matter the anger from the devil and his angels. Therefore, church attendance is not merely for socializing, networking, good burial, companionship, gaining recognition, building or belonging to fraternities but rather for deepening one’s relationship with God and growing in faith. As a body, as an institution and as a human being, the Church is sacred (1 Corinthians 3:15-17).

2.    Church as the Kingdom of God on Earth: Preparing Souls for Heaven

The Bible teaches that when we are born again, we enter into the Kingdom of God. Through baptism, we become heirs and members of God's family. As 1 Corinthians 3:16 says, "Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" When we gather as the Church, we are spiritually transformed and renewed in Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). We are then living not by our own will but by the will of God (Philippians 1:20-22). In summary, Church, both as the body (the human being) and an institution, is our country of nationality with the Earth being our country of residence. We will return to God and later join Christ where our destiny lies. This means all our struggle on earth is not for anything we see, feel or thing that is earthly but for that destiny we await.

Therefore, our journey on earth is not about seeking wealth, success, or status; instead, it is about preparing for eternal life. This does not mean we cannot enjoy the grace of God by the things he has created for us to enjoy. In fact, in God’s wisdom, he made these things for us and therefore, he gave them to us to subdue or enjoy. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” The ultimate goal is to stand before God on Judgment Day, to be accepted as His true children, and to inherit the promise of everlasting life with Him.

3.    Sunday Worship: A Commandment in the New Testament

The Bible establishes the importance of worship on the first day of the week, known today as Sunday. In Acts 20:7, we read, "On the first day of the week we came together to break bread." This gathering reflects the New Testament pattern, where believers come together to worship, partake in the Lord's Supper, give offerings, study God’s Word, and praise Him collectively. It is the communion of the believers helping us to associate in the practice of the commandment.

Hebrews 10:25 further encourages us, saying, "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Sunday worship not only helps us connect with God but also strengthens our unity as a body of believers, encouraging one another in faith and love.

4.    Meeting the Social and Spiritual Needs of the Christian Community

The Church serves as a place where we care for each other’s needs, both spiritually and physically. Through fellowship, we learn who among us is in need, whether due to illness, financial hardship, or emotional struggle. Galatians 6:2 reminds us, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." The Church becomes a family where love, care, and compassion are shown in tangible ways.

In Acts 2:44-45, we see an example of this communal support: “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” This is a beautiful picture of how the Church is meant to function—not just meeting for worship but also providing for each other’s needs.

While each member is encouraged to work and support themselves, as seen in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, the Church also recognizes that some may need extra support, especially the sick, elderly, or widowed. James 1:27 calls us to "look after orphans and widows in their distress," fulfilling our role as Christ’s body to meet the needs of the vulnerable.

5.    Conclusion

Going to church is more than a tradition or social event; it’s a commandment, a preparation for eternity, and an essential means of support for believers. In attending church, we respond to God’s call, grow in spiritual wisdom, and contribute to a community that embodies His love. As the Church, we gather to worship, encourage one another, and serve in love, fulfilling our purpose as Christ’s body on Earth.

Let us remember Hebrews 10:24-25, which says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another." In this spirit, may we find strength and joy in gathering as the Church, knowing that it is both our duty and privilege as followers of Christ.