by Hermes Roberts

Created on: July 25, 2008   Last Updated: November 29, 2010

"You don't have to go to church to be a Christian". This rhetorical statement has been used by the secular population time and time again. This is just one of the beliefs which keep a lot of people from attending church.

It is also believed that anyone can read and understand the Bible without help and consultation. Some also believe that it is not even necessary to read the Bible to be a Christian. People believe that they just have to follow the demands of the Ten Commandments and they are living a Christian life. They also ask themselves the question. "Why go to church, when some church goers act in an unethical and immoral manner just like the rest of us do? People believe that some people go to church just to be critical of the people who live around them. There is some truth in each of these beliefs but to follow Christ teachings you have to be in the company or have some association with people who have these beliefs. Being a member of a church put you in this exclusive group.

The word 'Church' in the Bible was first mentioned in Matthew 16 verse 18. Jesus told Peter... "upon this rock I will build my Church". The 'Church' in the New Testament refers to individual Christians as well as a place of worship. Jesus said... where two or three (Christians) are gathered in his name, he is there also. When you go to church you should feel at peace and in harmony with other people. Act 2 verse 44 explains this feeling. "And all that believed were together, and had all things common". In church we feel devotion to Christ and each other. John 15 verse 12."Love one another, as I have loved you".

The church is there to meet many of our spiritual needs. We assemble at various times to discuss, consult, learn, teach and preach Biblical principles. Colossians 3 verse 16 ... 'teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord'. There is a lot of singing in church which will uplift your spirits and make your heart glad.

We also go to church to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ by breaking bread and drinking the wine. He asked us to do this until He comes again. 1Corinthians 11 verse 26. "For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come".

This fellowship with people who follow christian doctrine is only possible in a church atmosphere. Going to church could help you in many areas of your life. It could be helpful for your health, marital or family situations.

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