Ask a Pastor Column

Presenting Biblical answers to tough questions

Q: Why are we supposed to go to church? What is church good for?

A: The word translated “church” in our Bibles refers to a ‘called-out assembly.” In other words, a church is a group of people who have been called out of their culture and society by God to become part of something completely new and different (1 Peter 2:9-10). Members of this group are called saints (Colossians 1:2), beloved brethren chosen by God (1 Thessalonians 1:4), holy brethren (1 Thessalonians 5:27), believers in Christ (Acts 4:32; 5:14), and the body of Christ (Romans 12:5). Christians are special; set apart by God for His unique work through the gospel.

Because of a Christian’s new nature it is necessary for him or her to have a time to gather together with other, like-minded believers for encouragement, fellowship and teaching. ‘Birds of a feather flock together,’ as the saying goes! Times of genuine Christian fellowship are blessed occasions for prayer, sharing, fellowship, encouragement and learning (Acts 2:42-45). Paul, in 1 Corinthians 12:12-26, elaborates upon the similarities between a local church and a physical body. Just as each part of the body performs a special task for the body, while also relying on other parts as much as they rely upon it; so it is with a healthy group of Christians.

It is tragically common for people (including pastors) to see church as a religious obligation or social duty. Church becomes defined as a building or a weekly meeting instead of the ‘called-out assembly’ that it truly is. This can change what ought to be a joyful fellowship into a monotonous drudgery of social obligation. Yet I think the earliest followers of Jesus would have been surprised to find it this way. The perspective we find in the Bible is that gathering together in church is as necessary for Christians as an attachment to a body is necessary for a hand!

If you have a question that you would like a Biblical answer to, you can send it via email to [email protected] or by mail to Formoso Church; P.O. Box 66; Formoso, Kan. 66942.