A New Community
Becoming a Christian is the start of a life that was never meant to be walked alone. The Bible teaches that Christians should grow spiritually, worship, and serve together within a local church. For a new Christian, becoming part of a church is not just helpful – it is essential.
The New Testament describes how first century believers came together in small groups. They worshipped, received instruction from the apostles, met one another’s needs (material, social and spiritual), prayed, and evangelised. Even before they had any designated buildings, they met together regularly, generally in houses, and devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42 ESV).
Fellowship
Although some people have family associations with churches or have attended off and on for some time, this is not the same as true Christian fellowship in a local church. In the Bible, the word “fellowship” carries the idea of “participation with others in a common purpose”. The wonderful character of Christian fellowship lived out in a local church is the is the practical and spiritual help we can give to one another.
The support, encouragement, accountability, and love within a church family is vital. It is the best environment in which to worship, serve, grow and witness. It is within these relationships that we find support in hard times, and share happiness together when things go well. The church is a spiritual family where love is expressed in practical ways.
The Bible instructs us to:
“. . . pray for one another”
“. . . through love serve one another”
“. . . encourage one another”
“. . . build one another up”
“. . . comfort one another”
“Bear one another’s burdens”
Experiencing the Special Presence of Jesus
Jesus made a remarkable promise to His disciples: “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them”. While every Christian is indwelt by the Holy Spirit and therefore God is always present with us, the Bible reveals that there is a unique manifestation of His presence when His people gather together. When we gather as a church, we are placing ourselves in an environment where we can regularly experience this powerful, shared presence of God.
Growing Together
The Apostle Peter used the picture of the natural growth of a baby to describe the Christian life as one of spiritual growth that requires consistent nourishment. The local church is where Christians are fed through the teaching and preaching of the Bible. The early church “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching” (Acts 2:42 ESV), recognizing that learning God’s Word was foundational to their faith.
While personal Bible reading is important, it does not negate the importance of gathering with others to hear biblical teaching. God has appointed elders and teachers to shepherd and instruct His people, helping them to understand and apply His Word. Through this teaching, we are transformed as our minds are renewed and our faith deepens.
Worshipping Together
Just as personal Bible reading is important, so too is personal worship, but worshipping together as a church adds an important and unique dimension. Voices unite, hearts align, and attention is collectively directed toward God.
Being part of a church enables us to participate in worship together, which enhances our appreciation of the greatness and grace of God and fosters a deeper connection with Him. It also serves as a reminder that we are part of something much larger than ourselves with a shared devotion to the Lord Jesus.
Praying Together
There is a unique blessing in praying together – it brings unity, strengthens faith, and invites God’s intervention in powerful ways.
The early church experienced this firsthand. When they gathered to pray, the Holy Spirit worked mightily, filling them with boldness and even shaking the place where they met.
Exercising Spiritual Gifts
Every Christian is given spiritual gifts by God, not for their own benefit, but to serve others. These gifts are primarily used among the Christians who make up a local church. Whether it is teaching, serving, encouraging, or leading, each person has a role to play.
You may not immediately recognize your gifts but, within a church, you can discover and develop them. Just contribute in whatever way you are able to and, as you begin to serve, you not only grow personally, but also contribute to the strengthening of other Christians. The church thrives when every Christian participates fully.
Conclusion
Joining a local church is not merely a good idea for some Christians - it is a vital part of God’s design for all Christians. Within a church, we encounter God’s presence, grow through His Word, build meaningful relationships, discover our gifts, and serve others.
To seek out and join a local church is to place yourself in the environment God has established for your well-being. It is there, among other Christians, that faith is strengthened, lives are changed, and fellowship is enjoyed.