Getting into Spiritual Shape – Being Active in a Local Church

I often hear people say, “I don’t need a church to have a relationship with Jesus.”  There is a lot of truth in that statement.  A church cannot make us right with God, nor does simply walking in the doors to a church keep us right with God.  That being said, however, being involved in the local church is a significant part of a Christian’s life and development.  Being active in church is important for a number of reasons.

For one, it allows us to draw strength and encouragment from other believers.  It also allows us to encourage and strengthen others who need it.  The Bible tells us, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near”(Hebrews 10:25, NLT).  You and I need some help along the way.  It’s not always easy being a Christian.  Work gets tough.  Family life can be taxing.  It often seems like we are swimming upstream.  Where can we go to interact with people who share our values and can help us not feel so alone?  The local church.  Big or small, your church is a great place to be encouraged.

It’s important at this point to be reminded of something – no church is perfect.  Each one has its flaws and problems.  Unfortunately, some have more than others.  But the point is don’t quit attending somewhere because it’s not perfect.  Families have flaws.  We are all works in progress.  Find a church that is Christ-centered and teaches the Bible clearly.  Make sure it has a high view of Jesus and a high view of Scripture.  These are essential.  When these are in place, the other things tend to work themselves out. 

What other things are worth looking for?  It’s important to be involved in a place that looks outside itself.  If the church is interested in reaching outside  its walls, if it has a heart to reach people, then it is probably has a heart for God.  It’s too easy for a church to simply look inward, and allow everything to become inward focused.  Find a place that is interested in taking God to other people.

In the days ahead, we’ll talk a little more about why being involved is important.  But for now, find a place where you can live Jesus outloud.  Find a place you can encourage and be encouraged.  Find a place that points you to Jesus and focusses on His Word.  Find a place that tries to reach others.  If you can, that’s a place worth investing yourself in.