What does the Bible say about church?

A church is both the place of worship and the congregation of believers. In the New Testament the word translated church is ekklésia which combines ek (out from and to) with kaleó (to call). However, the word church is from Old English 'circe' which traces its roots through Proto-Getmanic 'kirika' and back to the Ancient Greek 'kyriakon' to mean the Lord's house.

If you're familiar with modern German, the word for church is Kirche and you can see how it is similar to both the Old English and Proto-Germanic.

As we explore some of the passages from the Bible to discuss church, keep in mind that the word means the gathering of believers.

Why is attending church important?

I want to address the most important question first - why should we attend church? Let's start by re-phrasing the question to focus on the relationship between faith and attendance: Can we be Christian and not part of a church?

The answer to the above question is immediately no if we use the 'called out from' definition of church found in the Bible. You are either part of the elect chosen by God and have received the word (1 Peter 2:9, Romans 8:30), or you're waiting to hear the word (Romans 10:14-17), or you've heard and rejected the word (1 Peter 2:7-8).

There isn't a middle ground where a person is called by God, out from the world, and not counted among his church (Ephesians 2:17-22). The Apostle Paul often uses the metaphor of a body joined together, highlighting our need for one another (Romans 12:4-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Ephesians 4:4-7).

However, it's easy to say all this while I live in one of the largest cities in the world. I drive past three different churches on the way to my church, and it's only a five minute drive. If you live in a remote area and there's no church building, try to gather with other believers in a home or outdoors.

Benefits of Church

What makes church so important for believers is its enormous benefits. A healthy church is devoted to public reading of scripture, encouragement, and teaching (1 Timothy 4:13). You can join others in praising God in song (Psalm 149:1) and the breaking of bread and wine (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

All of these things help to grow our confidence and provides a support network of believers when we face trials of various kinds (James 1:1-5). You can also be there to support others, which is perhaps even more rewarding and beneficial.

How to join a church?

Everyone is welcome into the kingdom of God, whether you're young or old, man or woman, rich or poor, dark or fair coloured - there's a place for you to join a church and learn more about Jesus.

There are many different denominations, but that normally means they emphasise one theological point more than others. Otherwise they remain mostly the same. There are some churches that aren't Christian, either focusing on works for salvation, other prophets, apostles, scriptures, or reincarnations of Messiah. Even within trusted denominations you may find a church with some faulty teaching in one or more areas. Always explore the scripture for yourself and discern the truth.

Once you have found a church that you feel comfortable with the people, it's great to commit to attending regularly. After a while, if you know that you intend to stay, most churches also have a formal membership process to let pastors know for whom they are responsible.

How long are church services?

A church service is typically between 1 - 2 hours in length. The service includes a combination of reading, teaching, singing, praying, and talking to each other.

During the week a church may also host prayer meetings, mid-week bible studies, youth groups, women's ministries, men's ministries, and many other activities designed to spread the good news of Jesus.

What is the difference between a church and cathedral?

You may be wondering what makes a church a cathedral, or what is the difference? A church is called a cathedral when it is the seat of a bishop. The etymology of the word can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word kathedra, which is used in the Bible and translated as the 'chief seats'.

Not all denominations include a structure that includes bishops. It's more than fine to attend a church, there are no heavenly benefits for attending a cathedral.