How to Go to Church

It’s worthwhile to pause and consider what Scripture teaches us about going to church. There’s actually a great deal of plain teaching in Scripture on this topic, and it merits review. When something good becomes habitual that is a good thing, but we should want our habits to be mindful habits. So, consider…

1. Scripture requires us to physically gather with each other. (Heb. 10:25)
2. We are to do so on the Lord’s Day. (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2; Rev. 1:10)
3. Our disposition should be marked by a few attributes: An eager & noble mind, as exemplified by the Bereans. (Acts 17:11)
4. Cheerfulness (Ps. 122:1, 2 Cor. 9:7)
5. Reverent honor of the Word (Heb. 12:28, Neh. 8)
6. Decently and in order. (1 Cor. 14:40)
7. Considering one another’s interests ahead of our own. (Phil. 2:4, 1 Cor. 11:21)
8. Exhortations for one another in the form of Psalm-singing. Which, coming back to my first point, is impossible if you aren’t gathered together. (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19)

All of this is preeminently practical. For instance, when you consider one another, that thoughtfulness is exemplified by your actions, dress, timeliness, and preparedness. We don’t livestream our services, because gathering together physically isn’t optional. We post next week’s music so you can be well-practiced for joining in the mutual exhortations. You should make preparations on Saturday (like laying out the outfits, getting breakfast ready, and the diaper bag packed) so that Sundays aren’t a mad-scramble of frustration.

Each of us have a role in our corporate worship. Musicians are to play skillfully. The men praying are to compose well-thought out prayers. Children are to love the body by sitting still and not being greedy at the snack table after service.

Our service is ordered in accordance with Scripture. It commands us to bring sacrifices of praise, to humble ourselves in contrite confession, to hear the word of the Lord, to commune with the Triune God in covenant feasting, & be sent forth by Him to fulfill His Great Commission to invite all nations, tribes, and tongues to become disciples of the King of kings. That is how you are to come to church. Come in Christ; with the joy and reverence of the Gospel on your tongue, to bless and edify your fellow saints as we together exalt the mighty name of our God.