The Bottom Line, Ministries Christian News, Articles, & Poetry 
Going to church is not an act to be performed out of duty or obligation, although it is commanded in Hebrews, Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Yes, gathering together in a place of worship is a command, but it is much more than that, and there are many other reasons why we should attend church.
First off, attending church services gives us an opportunity to be educated in the word of God. From Sunday School and preaching to special music and individual Bible studies, each part of the service is designed to reach out to the lost and draw believers closer to God, thus fulfilling II Timothy 2:15: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. While we can and should study God’s Word on our own, there is much to be said for the melding of minds in the house of the Lord.
Secondly, gathering together for weekly meetings provides us the chance to fellowship with those of like precious faith. Most of us do not have the opportunity to work in a Christian environment, so day after day, we are surrounded by the noise and misconduct of the world. The church offers a place for us to share both our joys and our burdens with those who will truly understand as only fellow believers can.
Thirdly, we should go to church both to bless and to be blessed. The church is a sanctuary where we can lift up the praises of the Lord both in song and sermon. During this process, it is not uncommon to both give and receive blessings from the Lord. A kind word. A timely message. A thought-provoking word. Even a simple handshake has the power to transform an attitude from one of sorrow or loneliness to that of joy and feelings of love. Where God’s people gather, He is in the midst. (Matthew 18:20)
Lastly, we should attend church services because Jesus did. Luke 4:16 tells us, And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. Notice that phrase, “as his custom was.” Jesus was in the habit of attending the synagogue on the sabbath day. The Lord Himself set aside time each week to gather together with fellow believers in a place of worship, and since our goal as Christians is to live like Christ, I can only conclude that part of being like Him involves attending church.
Going to church is not a duty; it’s a privilege. It is a time of rest and fellowship, set aside for believers to encourage one another and also to be a witness to the lost. It is a beacon of hope in a world torn asunder by war, turmoil, stress and strife. So why should we go to church? Because it’s not only the smart thing to do, but it’s also the right thing to do.
Can you think of some other Biblical reasons why we should attend church?
Such a needed look at church; thanks! God had my heart long before church did…church can be such a hard place for those looking for God. The expectations that folks in church are kinder and sweeter than the ‘rest’ of the world’ leads to much disappointment. I think church helps you learn grace. Grace for the failings of others and for yourself.
I understand what you’re saying, Billie Jo. I have heard many say that they don’t go to church because the church is full of hypocrites. The truth is that every place is full of hypocrites. The church is not a gathering place for those who are better than others. It is the gathering place of those who long to be better, not for the sake of vanity but because it is commanded by God. The church, like any other establishment, is full of people, plain and simple. The difference is in what is accomplished during those gatherings. Thanks for your comment!