To believe in God, do you have to attend church? With our daily hectic schedules, it’s easy to succumb to a leisurely Sunday. But what separates churchgoers from non-churchgoers?
What if God evaluates our choices? Are people interested in themselves rather than worshipping and serving Him? This doesn’t mean that they don’t believe in God or love God, and certainly many people who do not attend church are very spiritual. But is the focus of their attention pointed inward to protect and increase what they have rather than focused outward toward God and the world He loves?
Does church culture seem false? Sometimes churchgoers put on their best appearance, but this doesn’t always paint the true picture. As people, we’re all wounded and outsiders could easily view this “having it all together” facade as hypocritical. Some, because of choices and actions, believe they are above people. They fall prey to the old adage “Do as I say, not as I do.” Jesus said it himself, “Not all who sound religious are really godly people. They may refer to me as ‘Lord’, but still won’t get to heaven. For the decisive question is whether they obey my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21). A Christ follower’s true purpose is to love God and those who love Him put that into practice through service and obedience.
Hopefully churchgoers will serve the Lord. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). They serve on session as elders, deacons or they have committees who reach out to the community, assisting with the elderly, the hungry, the poor.
Hopefully churchgoers will honor obedience to the Lord. “Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9). A Christian’s life may be the only bible a person reads. Churchgoers learn to keep your word, follow through with commitments and tasks, and do well for the good of the Lord and the world. It will reflect the true spirit of God.
Sunday worship is important for all. It gives us a chance to ponder. Our culture doesn’t value that time to purposefully pause, thank, celebrate and challenge ourselves. But with such full lives do you know if you are centered inward or outward?
For more information, please contact First Presbyterian Church at 661-259-0555.