Why 'Do' Church?

Our modern world is not about to become less individualistic.

While the technological age which sprang upon us only a few decades ago—and which presses on us still!—has added some efficiency to our lives, it also seems to have added to our sense of isolation.

This increasing social and cultural isolation is also one of the main reason why the word “community” has become so popular and the reality to which it points so urgently necessary.

What might be most discouraging about this individualism is that fact that it seems to have affected the Church as much as anywhere else. It’s now not uncommon at all to meet “Christians who don’t do church.”

After all, some might argue, isn’t Christianity about my personal prayer of repentance which leads to my solo baptism which is then followed by my personal devotions and is now embodied in my own individual walk of faith?

So many Christians have gained the impression that the individualism of our modern world is completely compatible with the Gospel. It goes extremely well with our individual faith in our personal Savior.

It is within this kind of environment that Church attendance becomes “optional.”

In Scripture, however, the Church is not optional, Christ is not only your personal Savior, and the Christian faith is not only about your personal walk with Jesus.

However difficult it is for us to think in these terms, in the New Testament, because of the special dwelling of the Spirit in its midst, the Church is the unique location at which heaven and earth presently overlap.

To separate yourself from the Church and to accept the increasing individualism of our modern world is not simply to dismiss an “optional” component of the Christian faith.

To separate yourself from the Church is to say loudly and clearly that you do not want to be involved with Jesus’ continued work in the world.

If you don’t currently attend Church, would you consider attending Ooltewah United Methodist Church this Sunday? Jesus has a place for you in the Church. You will be welcomed with love!