Have you ever heard people say, “I don’t have to go to church to be a Christian”? Of course, the statement is true. No one who knows his or her Bible would suggest that a person becomes a Christian by attending church or by participating in its activities. It would be foolish to believe that simply by going to church and becoming a member someone becomes a child of God.

Sadly, however, that is exactly what many believe although the Bible is very clear on this. A person becomes a Christian by entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the only Saviour. Jesus said: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

Of course, such a relationship is much more likely to be entered into if one attends church where the Bible is taught than if he doesn’t. A person is also more likely to grow and mature in his or her Christian life if he or she attends church. One doesn’t have to attend school in order to be educated. Few achieve a significant education, however, apart from the teaching that is given by an educational institution. Church services are, or should be, designed to exalt Christ and to strengthen our faith.

The church also provides loving fellowship. It binds people together in a spiritual family where there is a genuine care for one another. The church should be a place where parents and children together worship God and fellowship with other believers.

The most valuable gift parents can give to their children is a genuine faith in God. What greater help could a child be given than to know that the creator and sustainer of the universe knows him personally, loves him, understands all his anxieties and fears and is ready to help and comfort him in his deepest needs?

The church should be a place for individuals to worship God, learn, be equipped and develop lasting relationships and Christian maturity. Its activities should be designed to bring spiritual richness and blessings to the entire family.

Pastor Joseph Hovsepian