January 8th, 2025
by Joey Hufstedler
by Joey Hufstedler
Hey Guys,
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be tempting to prioritize everything but the church. Work deadlines, family obligations, hobbies, and even rest often compete for our time and attention. However, as followers of Christ, we must remember that the church is not merely an optional part of our lives—it is central to our spiritual growth, service, and witness to the world. Let’s explore why being active in the church is essential for every believer and how it impacts both the individual and the body of Christ as a whole.
1. Biblical Mandate for Gathering Together
The Bible makes it clear that Christians are called to gather together regularly for worship, teaching, and fellowship. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts us: "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (NASB)
Attending church worship and Bible study is more than a routine activity; it is an act of obedience to God. When we gather, we uplift one another, receive biblical instruction, and worship our Creator corporately. Worship is not just about what we receive but about giving glory to God and aligning our hearts with His will.
2. Growing Through the Word and Fellowship
One of the primary ways God transforms our hearts is through His Word. In the local church, we are blessed to hear sound teaching and engage in Bible study with others. As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (NASB).
Being present in Bible study allows us to:
Without consistent involvement, we risk spiritual stagnation and isolation. God designed the church as a place where we grow together, not apart.
3. Serving Through the Local Church
The church is not a spectator sport. Each believer has been gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve and build up the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12 teaches that Christ gave gifts “for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ” (NASB).
Serving in the church helps us:
Whether it’s teaching a Sunday school class, singing in the choir, greeting visitors, or helping with community outreach, every role is significant. When each member does their part, the church functions as God intended.
4. Demonstrating Commitment to Christ and His People
Jesus Himself modeled the importance of prioritizing God’s house. As a boy, He told His parents, “Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49, NASB). Later, He cleansed the temple, declaring, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’” (Matthew 21:13, NASB).
When we commit to being active in the church, we follow Christ’s example and show the world that we value what He values. Our presence and participation proclaim that the church is not just another activity but the very heart of our lives as believers.
5. Encouraging One Another in a Lonely World
We live in a time when loneliness and disconnection are rampant. The church is God’s answer to this crisis. It is a place where we find family, belonging, and purpose. Galatians 6:2 commands us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ” (NASB), and this is only possible when we are actively involved in each other’s lives.
When we gather for worship, study God’s Word, and serve together, we create an environment where others can experience the love of Christ. Our participation encourages others to stay the course and reminds them they are not alone in their walk with the Lord.
6. The Eternal Perspective
Finally, we must remember that the time we invest in the church has eternal significance. Jesus promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18, NASB), and it will stand forever. The relationships we form, the truths we learn, and the lives we impact through our service all contribute to God’s eternal kingdom.
When we stand before Christ one day, we will not regret the hours spent in worship, study, and service. Rather, we will rejoice in the fruit that our faithfulness produced for His glory.
Conclusion
Being active in the church is not about adding another obligation to an already busy schedule. It is about aligning our priorities with God’s and embracing the blessings He has designed for His people. Worship, Bible study, and service are essential components of a vibrant and growing faith.
If you have been hesitant to engage fully in the life of the church, let today be the day you commit to being present and active. God has gifted you uniquely, and your involvement is vital to the health and mission of the body of Christ. Let us honor Him together by making His church a central part of our lives.
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be tempting to prioritize everything but the church. Work deadlines, family obligations, hobbies, and even rest often compete for our time and attention. However, as followers of Christ, we must remember that the church is not merely an optional part of our lives—it is central to our spiritual growth, service, and witness to the world. Let’s explore why being active in the church is essential for every believer and how it impacts both the individual and the body of Christ as a whole.
1. Biblical Mandate for Gathering Together
The Bible makes it clear that Christians are called to gather together regularly for worship, teaching, and fellowship. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts us: "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (NASB)
Attending church worship and Bible study is more than a routine activity; it is an act of obedience to God. When we gather, we uplift one another, receive biblical instruction, and worship our Creator corporately. Worship is not just about what we receive but about giving glory to God and aligning our hearts with His will.
2. Growing Through the Word and Fellowship
One of the primary ways God transforms our hearts is through His Word. In the local church, we are blessed to hear sound teaching and engage in Bible study with others. As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (NASB).
Being present in Bible study allows us to:
- Deepen our understanding of Scripture.
- Share insights and learn from others.
- Apply biblical principles to our daily lives.
- Build relationships with fellow believers who can encourage us in our faith journey.
Without consistent involvement, we risk spiritual stagnation and isolation. God designed the church as a place where we grow together, not apart.
3. Serving Through the Local Church
The church is not a spectator sport. Each believer has been gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve and build up the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12 teaches that Christ gave gifts “for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ” (NASB).
Serving in the church helps us:
- Fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.
- Develop humility and selflessness.
- Strengthen the church’s ability to reach others with the Gospel.
Whether it’s teaching a Sunday school class, singing in the choir, greeting visitors, or helping with community outreach, every role is significant. When each member does their part, the church functions as God intended.
4. Demonstrating Commitment to Christ and His People
Jesus Himself modeled the importance of prioritizing God’s house. As a boy, He told His parents, “Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49, NASB). Later, He cleansed the temple, declaring, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’” (Matthew 21:13, NASB).
When we commit to being active in the church, we follow Christ’s example and show the world that we value what He values. Our presence and participation proclaim that the church is not just another activity but the very heart of our lives as believers.
5. Encouraging One Another in a Lonely World
We live in a time when loneliness and disconnection are rampant. The church is God’s answer to this crisis. It is a place where we find family, belonging, and purpose. Galatians 6:2 commands us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ” (NASB), and this is only possible when we are actively involved in each other’s lives.
When we gather for worship, study God’s Word, and serve together, we create an environment where others can experience the love of Christ. Our participation encourages others to stay the course and reminds them they are not alone in their walk with the Lord.
6. The Eternal Perspective
Finally, we must remember that the time we invest in the church has eternal significance. Jesus promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18, NASB), and it will stand forever. The relationships we form, the truths we learn, and the lives we impact through our service all contribute to God’s eternal kingdom.
When we stand before Christ one day, we will not regret the hours spent in worship, study, and service. Rather, we will rejoice in the fruit that our faithfulness produced for His glory.
Conclusion
Being active in the church is not about adding another obligation to an already busy schedule. It is about aligning our priorities with God’s and embracing the blessings He has designed for His people. Worship, Bible study, and service are essential components of a vibrant and growing faith.
If you have been hesitant to engage fully in the life of the church, let today be the day you commit to being present and active. God has gifted you uniquely, and your involvement is vital to the health and mission of the body of Christ. Let us honor Him together by making His church a central part of our lives.
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
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