Biblical Answer

Can I Still be a Good Christian if I Don't Attend Church Regularly?

Understanding the Importance of Church Attendance

Becoming a Christian brings responsibilities, including a higher calling to God and to fellow believers. Regular church attendance is a vital part of this calling, as it allows us to worship, fellowship, and witness with others. The Westminster Confession emphasizes the importance of the local church as a place of worship, fellowship, and witness. While it is possible to benefit from Christian teachings and resources outside of a traditional church setting, such as through radio evangelists or online communities, these do not replace the need for regular church attendance.

The Dangers of Isolation

Attending church regularly is not just about receiving spiritual nourishment; it is also about being part of a community that holds us accountable and encourages us to grow in our faith. Without regular church attendance, we risk becoming isolated from other believers, which can lead to moral anemia and a lack of spiritual growth. In fact, the Bible warns against the dangers of isolation and encourages us to gather regularly with other believers for worship, teaching, and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). While it may be tempting to use excuses like feeling uncomfortable in church or not finding the right community, these should not be used as a reason to avoid regular church attendance.

The Call to Accountability and Community

In contrast to the idea that becoming a Christian is a "free ride" that allows us to sin with impunity, the Bible teaches that we are called to live a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ. Regular church attendance is an important part of this call, as it allows us to be held accountable by other believers and to grow in our faith through teaching, fellowship, and worship. While it may be possible to be a "good Christian" without attending church regularly, this is not the ideal or the biblical norm. As we seek to live out our faith in a way that honors God, we should prioritize regular church attendance as a vital part of our spiritual growth and development. (Matthew 18:20, Acts 2:42-47)