Why You (and I) Need the Church


Last week we received disturbing news.

A survey published by Christianity Today and other outlets found that Americans‘ reading and study of Scripture has declined over the last year. While they could not look at this specifically during the pandemic, it seems that this is a direct result of what has happened to us since March 13.

The decline is not just a small amount. It is large, and it is disturbing.

What we thought would happen apparently has not happened. Many of us believed, at least hoped, that this time might be a time in which we would use our time at home to gather together around Scripture and do some very intense searching about our lives.

What happened?

Here is my take on this.

We don’t do well on our own without the church. There is a reason why God created the church, and there’s a reason why we’re told to not forsake the assembling of ourselves together.

When we assemble together we encourage one another just as Scripture tells us to do. Our physical presence makes a difference.

What can we do when some people simply cannot meet together? Remember, this is not something that has not happened before. We’ve always had homebound people who couldn’t physically meet with the church.

For the most part, these faithful saints have continued to look at Scripture, spend their days in prayer, and encourage other believers.

It is time for us to take up their mantle and be found faithful in difficult times.

Would you join with me in renewing your commitment to become like Christ and to spend time in prayer and in His Word?

Share this post

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on email

10 Responses

  1. So true we are not usually disciplined on our own we need each other to remind us!
    You are right those dear saints were always faithful to the church and when they couldn’t come they were always faithful to pray for the church! Oh that we would learn from them and the goodness of God!

  2. Waylon, I so appreciate your encouragement and wise words throughout these difficult times. I pray God continues to bless you with health and wisdom to lead the church.

  3. This is a good reminder to not give up the good fight. Meeting together as a church is up-lifting and a chance to encourage one another. We all need to feel connected and that we are not alone. Thank you for keeping us focused and bringing some normalcy to our lives. Praying for our church and all our leaders.

  4. I am hoping that this phenomena is not the result of the church not being able to “feed ourselves” when necessary and in whatever circumstances we are in. In your sermon a few weeks ago you referenced John 14 and God’s Helper sent at the request of Jesus. I loved that! Thing is, we have to ask for the help. I find it very intriguing that Jesus says in verse 21 of John 14, that if we love Him and keep His word “He will reveal Himself to us”. I am never more excited than when the Spirit reveals the Son through his word or by answered prayer.

    You are so right, “We have to be found faithful in difficult times”.

  5. Waylon thank you for your encouraging words. We have only been back for 2 Sunday’s and it feels so good to be physically worshipping and gathering with fellow Christians. I could feel the Holy Spirit moving among us.
    I felt totally safe coming back. The distancing that has been put in place made me feel confident with everyone wearing mask Including all of us attending.
    We have to stay in the word and in prayer daily. There are so many throughout the world that have it much worse than we do. In Christ’s love Nancy

  6. yes i will. Thanks to you and all the ministers at first for the work you all are allowing God to use you for

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *