Does it matter if I go to church?

     I've heard quite a few folks say "I don't have to go to church to be a Christian" and, for the most part, I agree.  Being in church no more makes you a Christian than standing in a garage makes you a car.  Having said that, though, there are some good reasons why a person should be involved in and going to church.  Hebrews 10:24-25 say, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching."  This passage is a powerful reminder of why Christians need to meet together.  Let's look at a few of the reasons noted here.

     First, we are to "spur" one another on toward love and good deeds.  The word "spur" in the Greek is a word that means "to sharply provoke or jab."  The idea I think the Hebrew writer is expressing is that Christians need to meet together to challenge and inspire each other to love more and do good.  Meeting together allows us the opportunity to sharpen one another as "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17).  Coming to church is a chance to be motivated for service.  I think, many times, we can become complacent in our faith.  We do what we always do and we often to it without thinking.  It is good, sometimes, to be challenged and stimulated to serve the Lord in new and creative ways.  

     Second, we are to meet together to encourage one another.  The implication here is that we need to meet together to get strength to face the challenges of daily living.  Meeting together with other Christians (going to church in the American vernacular) is a way to get "filled up" with the love and courage needed to face the struggles of life.  This works both ways.  If you are down and discouraged, you can come and allow the love of Christ and others to fill you.  If you are doing all right, you can come and be a part of helping one who isn't doing as well. 

     Finally, we need to be meeting together because the "Day" is approaching.  The "Day" here, is one that Bible scholars have debated, but, as I see it, "the Day" here is a reference to the "day of judgment."  We need to be in the habit of meeting together to celebrate Jesus, to praise, worship and thank him for all he's done.  We need to do it to encourage and stimulate each other.The time of Jesus' return is coming.  When he comes, all things will be new and different.  Until then, though, meet together.   

     I hope that this Sunday finds you meeting with some brothers and sisters in Christ.  You need them and they need you.  See you Sunday and thanks for reading....