On Mothers’ Day, I shared how I believe church attendance should not be one option on the smorgasbord of many options on a Sunday morning. I stated that it is vital that parents develop a commitment to church attendance that will be an example to their children. Below is an article, that came out last week, by Dr. Mike Fabarez that is one of the best statements on the priority of church attendance that I have every read.

Pastor Fabarez, another Talbot Seminary grad, is one of the best exegetical preachers out there. Please read his article. Also, please read my closing remarks.

Church Attendance

May 18, 2017
Pastor Mike Fabarez

The Bible is very clear about God’s expectation regarding “church attendance” – to use our modern terminology. Christ commissioned the establishment of churches, the Holy Spirit inscribed instructions about how they operate, and God required that our regular gathering in church not be neglected. Actually, the Hebrews passage so often quoted in this regard tells us that gathering together at church ought to happen “all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (10:25). The requirement to “be in church” should intensify as the years roll by, not diminish.

While there is much more to church than just showing up, it is important to realize that we must attend regularly. Regularly and consistently going to church is a fundamental Christian duty. I realize that in a consumer culture saying that anything about Christianity is “a duty” is foreign to most people. But if God requires it, then it is my obligation to attend, even if I don’t think they’ll miss me, or need me, or feed me the way I think they should. Obviously, you should find the best and most biblical church within a reasonable driving distance. But once you’ve found the best one available, consider it your Christian obligation to be there regularly, even after the newness or initial excitement wears off, and especially as the reasons for not going pile up.

If God requires it, you can be sure Satan will tempt you to neglect it. But don’t. Make it your resolve to be there week after week as faithful children and obedient servants of the Lord of hosts (Mal.1:6).

Over the years I have been hesitant about expressing the priority of church attendance (to a fault) for fear of sounding legalistic or self-serving. But as with all spiritual disciplines, there should be balance. For example, we all need vacation time away, etc. Some Sundays a crisis may occur and we may need to address that crisis immediately.  On the other hand, we can develop a causal approach to being with God’s people on Sunday which is clearly contrary to the Word of God.