I Don’t Need Church to Worship God [Part 2]
Did you hear about that pastor? Of course you did! You know the one that had that issue… the scandal… the legal troubles… the money thing… the extravagant car… the divorce… the bathroom selfie… the extravagant lifestyle… You know! I told you, all these pastors are the same. You don’t need to go to church to find God… just read your word and do good!
Have you heard this before? All of us have. Partly, it’s correct. Pastors are human. Church folks are sinners. But that doesn’t negate our need to for connection in order to grow in our spiritual walk.
Have you ever noticed geese flying in formation? This “V” formation creates wind resistance, reduces drag and conserves energy. If the bird stays in formation, it can glide on the wind created by the birds around him. This allows them to fly much longer without falling.
Trying to live the Christian life without being connected to a church is like a goose trying to fly without a formation. You’re missing out on the benefits of being connected. Hebrews 10:24-25 puts it like this:
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.
Among others, here are two undeniable benefits to being connected to a local church pointed out in these two verses.
1. Motivation
The Christian life is hard, especially when we’re alone. Acts of love and good works don’t always come naturally to those of us inclined to sin (read here: all of us). Having support from other believers makes that journey much more manageable than going at it alone.
2. Encouragement
The Christian life is hard, especially when we fall. When flying in formation, two other birds accompany any injured bird until it recovers. A fallen bird is never allowed to fall alone. Falling is inevitable. Falling with no one to encourage and restore you is fatal to your Christian life.
Have these two benefits helped your walk with God? What are some other benefits of your connection with a church? Don’t let the same excuses stop you from being connected to a church. For as many flaws as the church has, you can’t find the benefits anywhere else!