You can worship God anywhere. The Bible describes God’s presence this way, “one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Ephesians. 4:6 (NIV) On a summer night when you can get away from the city lights, the smog, and the clouds, you can gaze at the stars and more fully appreciate what King David wrote 3,000 years ago, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Psalm 19:1 (NIV). But there is much more to worshiping God than feeling wonder at God’s creation.
The Bible pictures community among believers. Moses gave the Ten Commandments from God to a community of believers. Jesus spoke to people in synagogues, on hill tops, and in upper rooms, and many other places.
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The Apostle Paul wrote most of his letters to churches, communities of believers. Finally, the book of Revelation pictures great multitudes in heaven worshiping and serving God together.
A highlight of my spiritual journey was participating in the Billy Graham Crusade in Portland in 1992. Along with desiring people to place their faith in Christ, the event was organized to tie new believers into existing Bible-believing churches so they could grow spiritually.
By not going to church you are missing out on the encouragement you can receive from other believers who know and love you. You are also missing out on what you can be giving to others when they need your love and encouragement.
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This is the reasoning behind the instructions in Hebrews 10:25 (NIV) “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.”
I have never seen an individual grow toward spiritual maturity in isolation. The interpersonal relationships (even the difficult ones) from church involvement are part of the process the Lord will use in bringing you to a closer walk with Him.
I would encourage you to worship in church next Sunday.
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