Biblical Answer

The Misconception of Church as a Place of Judgment

The idea that church is a place of judgment is a misconception that can be a significant obstacle to faith. While it is true that some people in church may judge others, the church as a whole is not intended to be a place of judgment. Instead, the church is meant to be a community of believers who are called to love and serve one another (John 13:34-35). When we come to church, we should be seeking to learn from one another, to grow in our faith, and to be encouraged in our walk with God.

The Biblical Perspective on Church

The Bible teaches us that the church is a place of salvation, not judgment. In 1 Corinthians 9:19-22, the Apostle Paul writes, "Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law, though I myself am not under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law, though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some." This passage shows us that the church should be an agent of salvation, not judgment.

Breaking Down the Barriers

If you feel uncomfortable in church because you think everyone is judging you, it may be helpful to try a different church or to find a smaller community of believers where you feel more at ease. It's also possible that you may be projecting your own feelings of guilt or inadequacy onto the church. Remember that the church is a place of love and acceptance, not judgment. When we come to church, we should be seeking to learn from one another and to grow in our faith, not to judge or criticize others. By breaking down the barriers that may be keeping you from attending church, you may find that you are able to experience the love and acceptance of God in a way that you never have before.