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The Role of Church in Spiritual Growth

The Importance of Being Present in Church: A Reflection on Spiritual Growth and Community

Why Do We Attend Church?

Let me ask you a simple yet profound question: “Why do you attend church?” The responses vary — fellowship, encouragement, learning, and being closer to God. Notably, no one mentioned church programs or denominations. The focus was on the relational aspects—loving, caring, and supporting one another. This highlights that church is not just a place but a community where we experience God’s love through each other.

Scripture as the Foundation

First, Scripture is essential! Second Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that all scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. Your presence in church matters to you so long as your church faithfully teaches scripture. The faithful teaching and preaching of scripture are crucial for your spiritual growth. If a church deviates from this, it may be time to seek a fellowship that holds the Word of God in high regard.

The Living Word

Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. The Holy Spirit uses scripture to penetrate our hearts, convict us of sin, and guide us in righteousness. This process of hearing, pondering, and responding to scripture is essential for our spiritual formation. It is in the gathering of believers that we experience this transformative power most profoundly.

Spiritual Discernment and Community Support

Our presence in church also matters for spiritual discernment. In a culture increasingly moving away from God, the church provides a counter-cultural space where we can learn and discern God’s will. Romans 12:1-2 calls us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, enabling us to test and approve God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will.

Moreover, Galatians 6:2 encourages us to carry each other’s burdens, fulfilling the law of Christ. The church is where we discover and share our burdens, organize support, and celebrate victories together. This mutual support system is vital for our spiritual and emotional well-being.

Friendships and Calling

Christian friendships are often conceived and cultivated in church. These relationships are crucial for our spiritual journey, as friends influence and support each other in following Jesus. Friendships require time and sacrifice, and our presence in church is the first step in building these meaningful connections.

Finally, our presence in church helps us discern our calling. As we gather, listen, and respond to God’s Word, we begin to understand His will for our lives. This calling may change over time, but it is through the church that we receive the guidance and support needed to know what it is and then follow it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our presence in church is not just a routine or obligation; it is a vital part of our spiritual journey. It is where we grow, discern, support, and connect. As we gather together, we experience Jesus, engage with others, and embrace our calling. Let us not underestimate the power of being present in church, for it is here that we find the strength and guidance to live out our faith in a challenging world.

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The Importance of Presence in Church and Life

Your Presence Matters To People: The Power of Being Present in Church & Life

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, we are paradoxically experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. Despite the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere, at any time, many of us feel more isolated than ever. This crisis of loneliness is not just a social issue but a significant public health concern, as highlighted by the Surgeon General of the United States. The statistics are alarming: loneliness increases the risk of heart disease by 29%, stroke by 32%, and dementia in older adults by 50%. Depression is twice as likely among those who feel lonely, and the risk of death increases by 60% for lonely individuals. Clearly, loneliness is a serious issue that needs addressing.

Your presence profoundly impacts various aspects of life, particularly within the church. The central message is simple yet powerful: your presence matters to God, to the church, and to other people. When you show up, you contribute to the life and ministry of the church, and you make a difference in the lives of those around you.

The Bible underscores the importance of relationships. In Genesis 2:18, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” This statement highlights that we were created for relationships. Whether in our families, communities, or churches, we are not meant to be isolated. Loneliness is not just undesirable; it is contrary to God’s design for us.

In the early church, as described in Acts 2:42, believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They were committed to being present with one another, building relationships, and encouraging each other in their faith. This model of community is something we should strive to emulate today.

However, being present is not just about physical attendance. It involves being mentally and spiritually engaged. Active listening, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in others are crucial components of meaningful relationships. When we are truly present, we can offer encouragement, support, and love to those around us.

The difference between isolation and solitude is also significant. Isolation is about avoiding people, often driven by fear, apathy, or pain. In contrast, solitude is an intentional act of getting away for a purpose, particularly to spend time with God. Solitude can refresh and renew us, preparing us to re-engage with others in meaningful ways.

In Philippians 2:3-4, we are reminded to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” This mindset is essential for building a supportive and loving community. When we prioritize other’s needs and interests, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged.

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17). We are called to help each other grow in faith, hold each other accountable, and spur one another on to good works. This is the essence of disciple-making, and it requires our active presence and participation.

In conclusion, your presence matters. It matters to God, to the church, and to the people around you. By being present, both physically and mentally, you can make a significant impact on other’s lives and experience the joy of meaningful relationships. So, let’s commit to showing up, engaging, and encouraging one another, fulfilling our God-given purpose of living in community.

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Embrace Community: The Impact of Church Attendance

Your Presence Matters To Your Church

In our fast-paced, individualistic society, it’s easy to overlook the significance of gathering together as a church. However, as we delve into the teachings of the Bible, we find that our presence in church is not just a routine or obligation; it is a vital part of our spiritual journey and growth. Last week, we explored how our presence matters to God. This week, we turn our focus to how our presence matters to our church community.

The Manifestation of the Spirit for the Common Good

1 Corinthians 12:7 states, “Now to each one, the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” This verse underscores that every believer receives a manifestation of the Holy Spirit, not for personal gain, but for the benefit of the entire church. These manifestations, or evidences of the Spirit, are the unique gifts and abilities God bestows upon us. They are meant to be used to help one another grow in Christ and live out the Christian life.

When we gather as a church, we bring these special manifestations with us. Our presence, therefore, is not just about filling a seat; it is about contributing to the body of Christ. When we are absent, the church misses out on the unique gifts we bring. In a world that often treats church as a spectator sport, we are reminded that true church life involves active participation and engagement.

Using Our Gifts to Serve Others

1 Peter 4:10 encourages us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” This call to action is clear: our gifts are not for hoarding but for serving. Whether it’s a gift of compassion, generosity, teaching, or encouragement, we are to use these gifts to build up the church and glorify God.

The fruits of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23, are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are universal gifts given to all believers, shaping us to be more like Christ. When we bring these fruits into our church gatherings, we transform the atmosphere, making it a place of love and support.

The Importance of Community

Romans 12:4-5 reminds us that we are one body with many members, each with different functions. This imagery of the church as a body highlights our interdependence. Just as a body cannot function properly without all its parts, the church cannot fulfill its mission without each member contributing their unique gifts.

Our presence in church matters because we are vital to the mission of the church. We are called to impact the world with the love and message of Jesus Christ. This mission is not something we can accomplish alone; it requires the collective effort of the entire church body.

Taking Action

So, what can we do? First, we need to show up. Our physical presence is the first step in contributing to the church community. Second, we need to get involved. Discover your spiritual gifts and find ways to use them within the church. If you’re unsure of your gifts, consider taking a spiritual gifts inventory (Click Here), which can provide insight into how God has uniquely equipped you.

Lastly, remember that someone in the church needs you. Your smile, your encouragement, your willingness to listen—these small acts can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Church is not just a place to receive; it is a place to give and to serve.

In conclusion, your presence in church matters. It matters to God, it matters to the church, and it matters to the mission of spreading the love and message of Jesus Christ. Let us embrace our roles as active participants in the body of Christ, using our gifts to serve and uplift one another. When we gather, we truly matter.

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Why Attending Church Matters to God

Your Presence Matters: The Importance of Gathering in Worship

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to become distracted and disconnected from those around us. We often find ourselves in crowded rooms, yet isolated, glued to our phones and devices. This isn’t a sermon against technology, but rather a call to recognize the importance of being present—especially in our spiritual lives.

Your Presence Matters. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus says, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” This passage, often quoted in the context of church discipline, holds a broader principle: when we gather in Jesus’ name, He is with us. This isn’t just about being physically present but being engaged and participating in what God is doing.

The writer of Hebrews also emphasizes the importance of gathering: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). When we gather, we encourage and spur one another on toward love and good deeds. We miss out on this mutual encouragement when we skip the gathering.

Jesus Himself made a habit of gathering with others. Luke 4:16 tells us that Jesus went to the synagogue on the Sabbath, “as was his custom.” If Jesus, the Son of God, prioritized gathering with God’s people, how much more should we? Our presence in church is not just about fulfilling a religious duty; it’s about forming a habit that shapes our lives and aligns us with Jesus’ priorities.

Have you ever gone to church even when you didn’t want to? Often, we find that when we push through our reluctance, we end up having a meaningful experience. It’s not just about attending a service; it’s about engaging with the community and allowing God to work in our hearts. Whether we’re tired, frustrated, or have a good excuse to skip, showing up matters. It reveals that our priority is Jesus’ priority.

Our presence in church is also a key part of worship. Jesus told the woman at the well that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). Attending the gathering is an act of worship, a witness, and a way to learn, submit, serve, sing, preach, teach, and listen. It’s about being obedient and worshiping God together.

Never underestimate the power of your presence. When you gather with like-minded believers, it impacts everyone around you. Your presence invites God’s presence into the gathering, and something special happens when the church comes together.

So, if Jesus wants you to attend church regularly, will you do it? Most Christians today attend church only 25% to 50% of the time. Would you be willing to commit to making your church attendance 80% or more? Remember, you form your habits, but your habits form you. Make gathering with God’s people a priority, and let it shape your life in a way that honors Him.

Your presence matters. It matters to God, it matters to the church, and it matters to your spiritual growth. Let’s commit to being present, engaged, and part of what God is doing in our midst.

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Reflections from Discipleshift 1

Become a Disciple Making Church

Yes, it is Discipleshift, not ship. I recently attended the Relational Discipleship Network’s DS1 experience at Providence Church in Knoxville, TN, with our church elders and head deacon. We planned to attend in January 2020, but someone canceled the trip when I was sick with Covid. I was disappointed they canceled because if I had died, they would not have continued pursuing to be a disciple-making church! That is a little unfair, I know. Everyone wants to make disciples, but what exactly is a disciple and how they are made is the issue.

The Father let me live through Covid; he performed a miracle of biblical proportions to keep me alive for what I believe is to continue my disciple-making journey. And that is precisely what I am doing! While this is the first blog in my sight, I have been on this discipleship journey for a long time.

In 2019, I cast a new disciple-making vision for my church and introduced home groups as part of that initiative. The goal was “to establish disciple-making communities that multiply in every neighborhood” in our town, county, and world. I got some pushback from someone saying, “The goal was too lofty and unrealistic.” Nevertheless, my passion was affirmed when I discovered that Providence Church, the host church for the DS1 conference, has been using relational small-group discipleship culture for years to plant over 22 new autonomous churches, some of which are in other countries. One of their South American church plants is now planting churches in the United States! The conference affirmed that I am on the right track and the Holy Spirit is leading.

At Providence, they plant churches by training a pastor in the relational disciple-making culture, and when he is ready, they send him out with anywhere from 75 to 200 of their members to launch a new church somewhere else in town. Then they do it again, and again, and again. I visited the church this past Labor Day weekend, and the previous week they had just launched a new church with over seventy people sent out from their church.

Back to groups. I initially set the groups up as friend-based groups that had sermon-based discussions. To add new members to the group, existing members would all need to agree so that the new people don’t through off the friendship vibe. That requirement for group agreement to bring in new people is probably a mistake but easily corrected moving forward. We want the groups to grow and multiply quickly, so inviting people needs to be easy and encouraged.

When Covid hit the country, like most, our church closed for a few weeks, although we continued our online services. At this point, I knew our groups were essential to continuing the mission because we could not meet in church or in groups larger than ten people. So, I contacted all our home group leaders, Sunday school leaders, and anyone interested in launching a group and commissioned them as micro-church leaders. In short order, they began using Zoom until it was safe to meet in person again. I brought in a friend and mentor named Alan Witham from the Kentucky Baptist Convention to train everyone in storying the Bible. So, we were off and rolling.

Some of our groups made it through Covid and are still meeting today. Others fizzled out. Some have returned to Sunday School, some still meet in homes, and one birthed a new group. My son, a junior in high school at that time, began a zoom group using storying the Bible with some friends from school and church, and Easton accepted Christ. Caleb took a job where Easton worked so he could continue to disciple him. The point is that our vision and structure were solid.

While at the DS1 event, the method of choice for making disciples in relational environments was storying the Bible. I also learned that Providence Church, whose pastor preaches exegetically like me, uses storying the Bible based on the sermon. shortly before attending DS1, Alan told me that the method he taught our leaders was from Jim Putman and the Relational Discipleship Network. So, we have all the elements we need. We have small groups and a sermon-based discussion and storying the Bible. All we need to do is marry the storying method with the sermon-based discussion and fan the flames of small group multiplication. Exciting right? Not so fast.

During DS1, the method for disciple-making only begins in the small group. Real discipleship, growth, and accountability happen outside the group when leaders train apprentice leaders and meet with group members individually or in small groups to talk about Jesus and life. This means that leaders are more than group discussion facilitators. They are disciples who will invest their disciple-making momentum into their group members outside group time. I call this sub-coaching. Yes, investment happens in the group, but true disciple-making, training, and apprenticeship happen outside the group. The group is the fishing pond or catalyst for identifying and training people at a deeper level. Without this outside-the-group discipleship (sub-coaching), groups will only make more facilitators. We want them to make more disciples for Jesus.

As it turns out, I have not formally asked my church’s group leaders to invest in their people outside their group. But those people like Chris and Mary, Caleb, Lawerance, and Cassandra are already doing it without being asked. I am doing it. We are doing it because we love Jesus and people; we are becoming selfless, and we are becoming more and more like Jesus. So, we will need to adjust what we look for in a group leader and what they look for in their apprentice group leaders. We are looking for people who will be a disciple and disciple others when the group is not meeting as well as when it is.

Since 2016, maybe before, several of us have been discipled and discipling others. Alan Witham discipled me; I discipled several others, including Chris and Caleb. Chris has discipled many more. We have been doing personal disciple-making apart from any group structure or church program. It has been a sub-culture or underground movement in our church but a significant part of our lives. We did not want it to be a “church program,” but we want our church to be a disciple-making church. That is what led us to attend the DS1 experience. We wanted to bring disciple-making sub-culture to the forefront in our church without making another program that everyone needs to attend. We want to be a disciple-making multiplying church. We want disciple-making to be who we are not what we do.

During the RD1experience, the Holy Spirit showed me that we are on the right track. We just need to bring the various elements of the plan together toward the goal; we need to align our efforts towards the intentional goal of being and making disciples. We have disciple-makers who are meeting with disciples and helping them grow, but they have difficulty finding people to disciple. We learned their future disciples are in the relational small groups! The storying the Bible method will help our disciple-makers identify people they can disciple.

We are doing it! We have nothing new to start; we just need to make a few minor adjustments and get busy with intentionality. Chris already had his first group since RD1. He has two or three apprentice leaders identified that he will disciple and help them launch their own small groups in 2023. My first home group meeting will be in November, a few weeks from now. I have two couples committed to coming and am working on a few more.

We are excited to see how Jesus has prepared us for this, is building the team, and creating the structure. Now we just need to run the play. Ready, break!