There is no denying that attending church is emphasized by about every Christian denomination (and nondenominational church) when it comes to being a follower of Jesus Christ. Although church is definitely emphasized in the New Testament, there is not a lot said about specifics when it comes to ecclesiology (exactly how church should be done, structured, experienced, etc.). Although every Christian community has a set of traditions and beliefs, the Bible really doesn’t lay out a strict “here is how you do it” code of conduct. Paul instructs the Corinthians (specifically in 1 Corinthians) regarding the Lord’s table, doing things in an orderly way, avoiding confusion . . . but as for a list of specific dos and don’ts . . . well it isn’t there.
That leaves many to state that their attendance at church isn’t that important. However, one of the few passages that address our assembling together gives a very powerful guideline.
Heb 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Heb 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
The writer of Hebrews encouraged believers to not forsake the assembling of themselves together (as some were already doing). So is this a requirement to attend church every week? Not really. Not really a requirement at all. . . but an encouragement. We are to “consider one another.” Now before we read any further let us just stop and think about those three words . . . consider one another.
My natural tendency is to consider myself. I mean, if I don’t go to church that is usually who I am considering. Maybe I don’t find it profitable for me. Maybe I don’t like the teaching or music. Maybe I got my feelings hurt. Maybe I’m tired. Maybe there is something else I would rather be doing. In each of those situations I am considering me. I think a lot of people attend church, but still consider themselves (I like the music, I like the teaching, I feel encouraged, me , me , me, me). The Bible encourages me to assemble with other believers because I need to learn to consider others besides myself. I am to focus on provoking others to good works, I am to encourage others. Many attend church and still forsake the assembly by being self focused. Still others consider only themselves by not assembling at all.
Instead of asking how often I should assemble, a better question might be, “Do I live my life considering only myself or considering others?” I mean the foundation of being a disciple of Christ is self-denial . . . isn’t it? When I consider others then “how often to assemble” becomes pretty easy for me. Not just for Sunday morning, but for every area of life.
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