Is it realistic in these on-demand days for churches to expect people to show up at a certain place at a certain time?
Some pastors, church leaders, and church members think not. They argue for increased exposure through apps and blogs and videos, and debate over whether you can be a Christian without attending an assembly.
But the question isn’t about can, it’s about smart. And even in our age of tele-commuting for work, employers don’t think it’s smart to never make the personal connection in a place at a time.
God wants Christians to:
“Let the Word of God dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). Done online? Check.
“Preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15). Done online? Yes, but not as well as in personal relationship.
“Spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). Done online? Not so much.
In fact, Hebrews 10:25 goes on to say, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”
God does not think church attendance is optional. If you don’t show up, you’re not fully involved in Christ’s work in the world.
Online, on-demand delivery is great, and I think we should use it a lot and with excellence. This delivery channel has great potential to increase a person’s personal connection with Christ through online study of the Word. It is not, however, complete.
The article at the link below includes many practical reasons why regular Sunday church attendance is both essential and wise.
Two-Thirds of U.S. Christians Think They Don't Need to Attend Church. Wrong.