The question we pose is a simple one: Why attend every service of the Lord's church?
In light of this question, we see only two kinds of Christians:
1) Those who actively seek to attend every time the doors are open, whether it be for the set periods of worship, Bible study, or any of the various church activities and functions.
2) Those who attend possibly one worship service per week and don't seem to see the real obligation and benefit of participating in these things whenever possible.
Does it really matter? Does it make a difference? Yes, it certainly does make a very big difference - to the individual member and to the congregation as a whole! The strength of the congregation depends upon faithful attendance on the part of the INDIVIDUAL.
Why Attendance Matters
It is a command
When God tells us to do it, it should be our priority. Some in the early were not meeting together and were admonished to do so (Hebrews 10:25). The same admonition is for us as well. It is also a command that we uplift and edify one another. We do this, among other times, when we meet to worship God.We are to seek the kingdom of God
God's kingdom, at this moment, is the church here on the this earth. We need to be willing to seek its betterment. This, of course, involves taking an active role when the church meets. When we faithfully meet with fellow Christians in worship to God, we cannot help but seek the kingdom - in it's present state here on earth and also in its future, spiritual state in Heaven.To grow and develop spiritually
The Christian song service is designed to lift us up. Bible study with fellow Christians is also designed to edify us. Some may say, "Why go to Bible study.. I know it already." If so, then come and teach it to those who need it. Others may say, "I'm a new Christian. I feel confused and lost. I can't participate in the Bible class." Being a novice is only to be expected of a new Christian. What better reason for take part - to grow in the Word with those of like faith.Every Christian is a vital part of the congregation
When one member is missing, the body is not complete (1 Corinthians 12:12). Each Christian member is needed - either to participate in or to lead in Bible study classes and in worship services.To provide a positive influence to others
We must never forget - others see our actions (Titus 2:7). Others are always watching. We can't avoid being some sort of influence on others. Will it be for the cause of Christ or against it? When we decide to cut the lawn on Sunday morning, or go fishing late in the day on Sunday evening, or neighbors will surely know it. Why would a Christian intentionally make it known that he decided to forsake the services of the Lord's church for any other activity?To watch for the return of the Lord
As Christians, we need to know that our Lord is returning, we need to anticipate that grand return, and we need to be ready for it (Matthew 10:22). Are we taking advantage of every opportunity to prepare for that great judgment day? One sure way to do this is to stay in the very good habit of worshiping with the saints - every time the doors are open.It helps keep in us a pure conscience
Faithful attendance will undoubtedly help to keep our consciences clean (Hebrews 9:14; 1 Peter 3:21). Missing worship services is one of the worst things we can do, because doing so starts us down that slippery path to eventually falling away from the church altogether.
Hebrews 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.
1 Corinthians 12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
1 Peter 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
