The Importance of a Church Family

The Church is not a building. It is the people who have made a choice to follow Jesus Christ. While there are many church buildings, in God’s view there is only one “Church.” This is not based on what man has established, but on what God has established. What makes a person a member of God’s church family is repenting from sin, putting all of their hope in the forgiveness of sin through the shedding of Jesus’ very own blood during the crucifixion and submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. God established the Church for a couple of purposes. Community and friendship are two of the main purposes. The original words for “church” in the Bible literally meant a group of individuals who had no purpose and were given an individual purpose at the same time, connecting them with others for a purpose greater than themselves. There are many benefits to having a church family in addition to connecting with people who may share your faith but attend another church. Here is God’s advice to us:

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,but let us encourage one another— and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

These two verses, give us some great direction. First, we must purposely think about how we can encourage people to love one another and do good things for others. This lets me know that I may not demonstrate love and good deeds without the encouragement of others. Second, is that we need to purposely meet together. I’ve found out that if I don’t purposely schedule times to get together with people, it won’t happen. Wounded Heart p. 94

Fish swim in schools literally because they are less likely to be eaten! Our church family, our brothers and sisters are hugely important! We grow best in situations where we are loved, encouraged and supported. This is what the picture of our social circles and churches should look like!

Prayer: Jesus, help me to connect with people who will encourage and support me as I grow. Give them wisdom to help me grow into all you created me to be! I pray this in Jesus name - amen.