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Why Do You Go to Church?

why do you go to church

Reasons People Give for Going to Church

I often wonder why I go to church. Seldom do I come up with a good answer, that is, the real reason why I show up on Sundays. I’m not even sure if I know the theologically correct response.

Here are some reasons I’ve heard over the years:

The truth is, at one time or another, these have all been my reasons for going to church. In response, someone may quip, “Well, as long as you’re there, that’s what really matters.”

I disagree.

In fact, I wonder if it’s better to stay home for the right reasons, than to go to church for the wrong reasons. Which would God like more? It’s something to contemplate.

As I read the New Testament—striving hard to not look through the lens of my experiences—I see some elements of learning and more so of worship, but mostly I see community.

To hang out with others who follow Jesus, to share life with then, having God at the center.

True community doesn’t happen at most churches. At other churches, community is a side effect. Rarely is community the focus of church. I think it should be.

That’s mostly why I go—even if I’m disappointed when community doesn’t happen.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.

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