Let’s be honest about something that many self-identified Christians seem to misunderstand. There’s a growing belief among some that being obedient to Christ doesn’t really mean being actively involved in a local church.
In several online Christian women’s groups I participate in, I’ve noticed quite a number of comments from people who claim they don’t have a church or aren’t keen on finding one. Some outright dismiss the need for a church community. I’ve seen remarks like:
To distance yourself from the guidance of elders, correction, and communal duty is, frankly, to reject Christ’s designated means of grace.
I don’t have to be part of a church. I can just watch a service online from my couch, read the Bible whenever I please, and meet up with other Christians at my convenience. I don’t need a pastor.
This perspective is misguided. A solitary Christian is much more susceptible to being led astray compared to someone who adheres to Christ’s command to be part of a local congregation.
Let me clarify: we aren’t discussing the universal “Church,” which includes all believers throughout history. Every genuine Christian becomes part of that Church the moment they turn to Christ. What we’re really addressing is the local church, a setup designed by God to provide what the global Church cannot.
What exactly is a local church?
A local church is essentially a group of Christians who live in the same area, voluntarily coming together to worship God, study His Word, support one another, and submit to leaders they’ve chosen, including biblically qualified elders who can instruct and disciple the congregation, along with deacons to assist practically.
This understanding is rooted in scripture, but first, let’s touch on what constitutes a “local group.”
In the U.S., especially in bigger cities, people often travel considerable distances to attend their church of choice. I won’t argue against that; still, I urge you to consider how being closer to your church can enhance both your involvement and what you receive in return.
If you’re currently looking for a church home, I would recommend starting with those that are nearest to you and expanding your search until you find a biblically sound community that resonates with you and your family.
It’s more than just a building
It’s important to note that the local church isn’t about a physical structure. Church can happen in a school auditorium, a park—anywhere the community can gather.
The essence of a local church lies not in its location but in its fellowship: a group of Christians choosing to commit to one another, regardless of whether they have a designated meeting space.
One could even argue that owning a physical building can distract from a church’s core mission of shepherding the community.
I appreciate beautiful stained glass, whether in quaint country churches or grand cathedrals. However, maintaining such spaces takes resources—money and time—that might be better used elsewhere, especially if the space is mostly empty during the week!
The purpose of the local church
The Bible outlines clear directives for the local church, as Christ did not establish a faith without structure or obligations. When believers separate themselves from a local church, they aren’t protecting their faith; they’re redefining it to suit their preferences.
So, what should we be doing?
We should aim to replicate the actions of the early church! It’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with what early Christians were engaged in. It serves as a timeless guide.
Here’s a useful checklist for how we ought to engage with our local church:
1. Meet regularly
First Corinthians 14 provides guidance for orderly worship services, including the phrase “when you assemble.” This suggests that Paul expected believers to gather consistently, a sentiment echoed throughout the New Testament.
“And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
2. Worship and learn together
Like the early believers:
“And they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer” (Acts 2:42).
3. Submit to church leaders
The New Testament doesn’t support a Christian walking through life without accountability. Christ calls believers to respect their church leadership. The aim of church discipline is restoration, not punishment.
This is often overlooked by those who prefer to stay home.
Pastors and elders have the responsibility of caring for their congregation. However, how can they shepherd individuals who aren’t present?
In Acts 6, believers were instructed to select leaders “from among you.” This was feasible because the local body recognized its members and could therefore help choose leaders.
These directives are not just optional guidelines—removing oneself from the care of elders and community accountability equates to rejecting Christ’s established means of grace. One cannot take Christ as Savior while disregarding Him as Lord, and when someone claims, “I don’t need the church,” they position themselves as the ultimate authority in their discipleship, stepping away from being part of the Church.
Moreover, without commitment to a congregation, there’s no Christian leader watching over you. This can be risky territory, which is likely why God created us to be part of church communities.
4. Love each other and hold one another accountable
Being committed to a biblically sound church offers much more than a simple leader-congregant relationship; it also provides a practical way to fulfill many biblical directives about “one another” interactions. Tim Challies puts it well:
Many of these commands can either only be carried out or can best be carried out in local contexts. You may be able to bear my burdens from a thousand miles away, but those who are closer are much more able. Therefore, church membership clarifies who you are particularly called to love and serve.
Finding your “one another” community happens within your local church, and you’ll also encounter those who differ from you. It’s a space to love and serve everyone, from singles if you’re married to the elderly if you’re younger, and vice versa.
This embodies Jesus’ command to love one another.
5. Share in the Lord’s Supper; witness baptisms
The sacraments generally occur in a church setting and should be integral to a believer’s experience. Baptism can take place in various locations, but aligning this with church authority ensures it retains its meaning and significance. The same holds true for the Lord’s Supper—teaching within the church clarifies who should partake.
6. Serve your community, meeting both physical and spiritual needs
Working together amplifies your impact for Christ in your community. This doesn’t negate the need to individually love your neighbor or share the gospel, but when you encounter needs beyond your capacity, that’s when you bring them to your church.
Your local church is often aware of community needs even before individuals are informed. Collaborating with your church in community service can be a strong witness.
A note on finding the right church
One comment that stood out from my online group was:
Sometimes it’s difficult to find a modern church that aligns with one’s beliefs. In those instances, I’d suggest forming a friend group of Christians and having a Bible study or just meeting to encourage one another.
And even if you manage to create such a group outside of church, “just meeting up to talk” pales in comparison to the rich spiritual experiences the local church can provide.
But her concern highlights a significant issue; many sofa-church adherents strive to find a congregation that aligns perfectly with their personal views.
This consumer mindset, paired with the abundance of churches in America, often shapes these attitudes. Numerous individuals leave or struggle to find another church, not necessarily because of a lack of sound doctrine, but due to their focus on personal preferences and comfort.
The U.S. boasts over 300,000 Protestant congregations, translating to more than 6,000 churches per state. However, the Bible Belt likely has more options than areas like, say, less religious Seattle (I can say that because I grew up there).
This ease of changing churches leads many to shift from one congregation to another, selecting places based on what appeals to them.
Yet, therein lies the problem. When we approach church hunting from a consumer perspective, we emphasize features that “fit” our needs. The music is great! There are plenty of middle schoolers! They even have a Saturday night service!
But, really, that shouldn’t be the focus when seeking a church. It’s essential to prioritize:
- sound biblical teaching (not just on Sundays);
- small groups for study, prayer, and accountability; and
- outreach efforts (both locally and globally).
You found a church? Here’s what to do next:
- Commit long-term. Approach your church with a mindset focused on lifetime engagement rather than a short-term trial.
- Make regular attendance a priority. It should be a baseline expectation, not just an option for free days.
- Be receptive. Treat sermons as messages from God, and prepare by reading the relevant passage in advance.
- Engage beyond Sunday. Find a small group to join—it’s the most effective way to build community.
- Get involved. Discover ways to contribute to the body you’ve joined.
- Enhance your church. Seek out how your church serves the community and collaborate. Or propose outreach ideas for your church to consider!
Ultimately, you need a church—there’s one out there that needs you too. So get off the couch and go find your place in the Body.
