Theres a popular graphic that circulates across the social networks from time to time that conveys the thought that sitting in church makes one no more a Christian than sitting in a garage makes one an automobile. The intent is well-meaning, but the premise is false. More accurately, sitting in church makes one no more SAVED than sitting in a garage makes one an automobile. Salvation does not come by church attendance, doing good, being religious, getting baptized, etc.; it comes only by faith through grace in Jesus Christ. It comes only through a personal relationship of commitment to Jesus. On the other hand, being a CHRISTIAN refers to being Christlike. To be Christlike demands that we live in obedience to the truth & teachings of the Word of God. The writer of Hebrews declared - we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it (Hebrews 2:1). Gleanings throughout the book of Hebrews provide insight as to how some of those being addressed were drifting away. One example - not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some... (Hebrews 10:25). Gathering regularly with Gods people for worship, prayer, fellowship, service and spiritual encouragement & enrichment has always been an important admonition of Christ and Scripture. The church offers the best environment for those qualities to be experienced and to flourish. No man is an island. We need each other, and we can do far more for the Kingdom of God together than any single one of us could do alone. In this context, I would submit that being an active participant in the church (not just sitting) does indeed make one a Christian because it accommodates the process of becoming more Christlike. Church is a Biblical priority and attending a Bible-centered church is an integral part of BEING a Christian.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Sep 2014 11:09:32 +0000
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