8 reasons God wants you to go to CHURCH

What does the BIBLE say about the idea of attending church?
Answering the question "why should I go to church?" from a BIBLICAL perspective. 8 reasons that the BIBLE gives for why believer's in Jesus should go to church. I also deal with 6 common excuses people have for not going.
This video was featured in afreshword.org/ as the November 20th, 2014 post. Check it out!
Pause the video to get all the scripture references and feel free to comment, like and make suggestions for future video ideas. The goal of my channel is to make videos that inspire a biblical worldview.

[@ConcatenateAgonWorld]

Please pray that I find the right church with the right people. Thanks in advance, God bless all.

[@glendagetagripfull]

Have you found the right church yet?

[@yardmasterswealtheducation8424]

I am interested. What is the "right" church, or the "right" people? Sounding very much like you are the judge...

[@JoshuaAdrianjones]

@@yardmasterswealtheducation8424 would you go to a Catholic or Johova Witness church?

[@yardmasterswealtheducation8424]

@@JoshuaAdrianjones The church Jesus Christ has been building these past many years is a "something" -- not a "somewhere." By definition, one cannot, "go to church." It is an impossibility based on definition. Would you "go to your marriage?" or to, "one of your friendships?" Of course not! You can go to where your wife, or your friend is, but you cannot, properly speaking, go to your marriage or your friendship. The true Church of Jesus Christ is a body comprised of every true believer, assembled in reality by the hand of Jesus Christ Himself. You are either a part of the church, or you are not. It is not something characterized or defined in any way by geography or architecture. So, you see, the same thing applies in each case. You cannot go to church; you can only go to places where other believers are at any time. (Where two or more are gathered together...) So, what you are actually asking is, Would I attend meetings of Roman Catholics and/or Jehovah's Witnesses. To which I would have to say, not by choice. If God commanded me to do so, that would be fine. Otherwise, directly participating in idolatry is not something I can righteously do. You see, both of those organizations preach and teach one of the false christs Jesus Christ warned us would come, "in His name," and would, "deceive many."

[@goofyskittles]

@@yardmasterswealtheducation8424 Should I never judge? How would I ever know of what I’m doing is right? We should judge based on the Bible’s teachings with love.

[@alanam9103]

I love church and fellowship but am unable to drive and to exhausted to leave my home.. I'm 62 and disabled so I do my fellowship online or with family! I watch sermons and keep in the word and in prayer all day! There are those of us who physically can't get to church! I think God understands this!

[@paola-pd4xl]

i am epileptic driving is not aleays safe because having seizures can cause an accident i am single and without a way to go so i am thinking what to do ? i also hope God understand the situation

[@Riker7373]

Jesus said himself were two or three are gathered in my name I am there also according to that as long as you're gathering with other believers you're in church at least that's my understanding

[@Valdal98]

Have you asked the church elders or deacons if some one could bring you there and home? That’s one way others can bless you and be blessed. Just a thought. I drive a family to our church and it’s part of my ministry.

[@sunsetstormx]

Yes God most certainly does understand. Fellowship isn't about driving to a church. It's about a fellowshipping with other Christians however you are able to do it. It's about not isolating and being completely alone all the time. Not everybody can find fellowship. Not everybody even has friends. But we must pray that God will provide the fellowship that we need in the way that we can access it.

[@krisoakley7575]

I can't help but wonder if perhaps a church in your area has a ministry that would support you...possibly with rides, possibly with visitors to help keep you connected and to pray with you. I KNOW God understands, and yet, perhaps there are ways to stay connected.

[@jackjones3657]

I love the Proverbs 18:1 reference that says a man who isolates himself becomes more apt to commit sin. This is very true! Look at the problem so many people have with secret pornography addictions. A healthy church is a place of encouragement to recharge, renew and be reminded of God's Truth's in an often dark and fallen world.

[@zed9616]

Nope I go to church for 22 years but I end that addiction because I'm open up to my friend. It's really hard to make friend in my chruch. That's why I didn't like in there. I like more open my sins with friends that not in my chruch cos they kind and not judge me.

[@Valdal98]

There’s a lot to be said about trusting others. We all need discernment and to find others who’ve come through similar/like experiences. Those are the people we can usually trust. They e been where we are.

[@Valdal98]

And yes, when we are away from other believers, we are more apt to fall into and possibly yield to temptation.

[@andreamichelle1]

That's talking about someone separating themselves from God and man to do their own will.. the Bible tells us to stay away from certain people..

[@jm1733]

Jack Jones, you might want to read that verse carefully. I don't know how you could possibly think that is what the verse is saying. The Bible is warning God's elect cover to cover about this thing many refer to as "church". God separates His elect and calls them OUT of this harlot religious system. There's no way to remain in Christianity and have any chance of understanding the scriptures. That's why there are thousands of divided denominations and carnal sects who oppose each other and contradict each other. The faith of those attending these temples is solely in the wisdom of men, not the wisdom that cones only from God. This presenter is just as blind as the pulpit pimps who deceive the masses, the many workers of iniquity. Thefew who find the narrow path that leads to righteousness have left the building after hearing the voice of the Good Shepherd, the ONLY Good Teacher.

[@OwenNDawe]

I disagree on several points. The trouble with aging into our eighties we have long memories to look back on. Now I can remember back to my pre-teens when we weren't ushered out of the church to a kids group but stayed in the main body for the entire service. We listened to four bible readings, we had a sermon explaining those readings. We had prayer. Yes we prayed for the Queen, (it's easy to see why she has been on the throne for 70 years. Millions of people prayed for her every Sunday) We prayed for our elected leaders. We prayed for international issues that were adversely affecting people. We prayed for the sick, the church, the community at large. So what do we have today? We spend the first half hour in the dark singing silly songs. We have a motivational talk that goes on for ever. We don't pray for the world, it's leaders, or anybody. It's all a human hype driven show. We are presented with a watered down gospel where Jesus loves everybody. He doesn't seem to want us to repent now. The Holy Spirt has evolved into some sort of Mickey Mouse character. The church needs to pull it's socks up and act like a church.

[@paxhumana2015]

@Owen Dave, and everyone else that agrees with you, this, exactly, SO much, and I am around half your age and in quite a large Godless urban area. However, even WITH praying for wicked and Satanic world rulers that have been appointed by the Luciferian globalist elite, rather than by YAHWEH EL ELOHIM Himself, prayers for them have limits, and particularly when they are unrepentant Satanic scumbags in their lives. Even YAHWEH EL ELOHIM Himself has a point to where He will not tolerate evil from people anymore in their lives. Like it or not, but sometimes, you MUST remove evildoers by force. Yes, you could call it a religious war, but, here is the thing, back in the day, when there were corrupt leaders, as well as corrupt organizations, there were people that had the courage to not just pray, but also physically remove, those corrupt leaders and their flunkies, even by force, and not necessarily for religious reasons, but, rather, because those people were evil and corrupt despots that kept trying to ruin humankind. Moreover, anyone that calls Christians as a bunch of fundamentalist zealot terrorists ironically are the fundamentalist zealot terrorists of their own various forms of false and Satanic religions themselves, yes, even Atheism and all of its related ilk, and, as such, they are hypocrites that need to get their own houses in order BEFORE they falsely accuse people of things in their lives. However, because humankind has been so negligent of this for so long, which, unfortunately, has happened due to the left, right, middle, and fringe misinterpreting the Holy Scriptures in their lives, and because the Holy Scriptures also say that things like this must happen, as they did in the days of the first Noah and Lot, it will be a literal fight for survival for your faith in your lives. Things like this must happen in the End Times before the cosmos will get better, as well as will be purged of sin, wickedness, and imperfection.

[@anessacher]

Many churches exist who pray for elected leaders, global issues, the sick, the church, and the community :) At least two that I know of in my town of 40,000

[@OwenNDawe]

@@anessacher I'm very pleased to hear that.

[@jamescarangelo8635]

Have you ever been to a reformed church? Presbyterian?

[@OwenNDawe]

@@jamescarangelo8635 No I haven't. I'll see if there is one in my area.

[@NikkNakk83]

1:08 Jesus didn't assume anything about anyone because He KNEW them. We, as followers, may be prone to assume things at times but that would not be like Christ. This is why we are to acknowledge the Father in ALL of our ways as His ways are perfect. We never have to play guessing games in the Kingdom. When it comes to assembling ourselves together, it should be with like minded people. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. WHERE there are 2 or 3 gathered in my name, there will Jesus be in the midst. Jesus is the way, the truth and the light! 🙂 God bless!🙏🏾

[@craigkelly4278]

Free will

[@jaymonpauling4835]

The American church is in catastrophe and more Christians need to speak on this issue. I think we should welcome things like home churches as long as their being led by someone who teaches with authority from the bible alone

[@fenellaparis2517]

This is a lovely, encouraging video. Thank you. I've recently started going to church again as I strayed for a few years when I was younger. I'm so glad I've started going and this video makes a lot of sense x

[@michaelmelter2271]

So great! I sent this to a dear friend and I pray that it convicts his heart. Thank you, Pastor Mike.

[@baconman1310]

My mother was also "hurt by the church" she is allergic to alot of natural perfumes that the members would wear. After a little notice to the church members that she heavily reacts to many perfumes she was judged by people saying that she just wanted attention or was lying because how can anyone react to anything natural (how about peanuts). She finally gave up even trying to go to church because she would usually sit somewhere uncomfortable and away from everyone so she didn't smell the perfume.

[@glenarledge1825]

Understand. My ex had allergic reactions to cologne and perfumes. Her eyes would water, face turn red and have difficulty breathing.

[@paxhumana2015]

I would tell those people to quit wearing them or put them all in a pit and let them have their way with one another, and then your mother can have her way with the survivors, and then no one will be arguing anymore.

[@lmorter7867]

The Early believers actually gathered daily. The church is a body not an institution so we really need one another. Of course there needs to be organization but it should be structured like a family not a business. It's about having love relationships after all. I can not imagine people doing well when persecution hits if they are not connected closely with other believers. I can only speak for myself but it is hard for me to imagine losing the religious freedom that we have in the western culture but the political sands are shifting. It is very easy to become complacent when you live in a bubble and many Christians are very cozy in the western world culture. If persecution comes the true followers of Jesus will have to rely on one another.

[@SteveWV]

my pastor told me that the early church meet everyday, but that was only during persecutions, am I not right about that?

[@lmorter7867]

I am not sure. I would think it would have been more difficult to meet every day if Christians were being persecuted. I think the mindset today in our culture is very different from the mindset of the early Christians. In the west, we are very preoccupied with "stuff" and self gratification and spend a lot of our time acquiring it which leaves less time for fellowship. I'm guessing persecution may have had more to do with Christians meeting less frequently but I don't know. I never researched it. Perhaps persecution drove them together more because of the need to encourage each other but it would have been hard for large groups to meet underground. If you find out more please let me know. Just from reading my bible it appears to me that the believers had a whole lot more passion and enthusiasm for Jesus then majority of the church does today. There are parts of the world (non western) where churches are far more connected and it has to do with their circumstances.

[@oopssugar]

Amen in Jesus Name Amen.

[@deathangel523]

True

[@Mcfirefly2]

I have trouble, and I dont have a church. I can tell you thay I rarely go a day that I don't at least seek fellowship online. I find it in issues-oriented sites like this, and in the sites dedicated to the persecuted. In the sites of the ministries to the persecuted, there is sometimes beautiful fellowship. People pray for people they have heard of, and even pray for the persecutors. That is as the body of Christ should be: those people are there because they believe that when one member hurts, the whole body hurts. They wouldn't be at that site, or have subscribed to it, if they didn't believe that, and want the church to be that. But what happens there is that people come in to troll for a new Crusades, insisting that we must come together, taking up the sword, to eradicate Muslims. Of course, if the persecution was not by Muslims, they have a harder time saying that we must eradicate the persecutors; I have never seen where they insisted that we must eradicate Rome when the subject was persecution in Mexico, for instance! But that's the nature of the internet; anybody can go anywhere, and they can go under almost any disguise. But for a few moments, it is real Christian fellowship: about Jesus, and loving the brethren. The issues-oriented and discernment sites vary in the likelihood of finding real fellowship. Sometimes there are moments in which people say some beautiful things, and you wish you had those "reaction" emoticons, maybe some that were a little more sensitive in capturing degrees and types of

[@hoangnguyen1979]

Thank you Mike. Really appreciate your clear and thorough explanation.

[@kmeccat]

Matthew 6:5-6 "When you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites, for they love to stand and pray in synagogues, and on street corners so that they my be seen by men. But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you."

[@StevenDuBeau]

That's a great verse for how you pray, but it has nothing to do with going to church. Jesus spoke of the church and about reporting to the church a person who refused to repent of a sin or a trespass. The Book of Acts speaks in great length of gathering together for fellowship and speaks of the council of elders who laid the groundwork. Paul wrote to Timothy about appointing elders in the church who would guard the fellowship. In Revelation Jesus wrote to the seven churches in Asia. There are too many verses in the Bible to address in this post, but the theme of the whole New Testament was Christians gathering together. Church is only a part of our Christian walk, but it is an important part.

[@elizabethkass49]

Yes Yes Yes sister preach!

[@elizabethkass49]

@@StevenDuBeau wrong, he said if we still wanted to go to the churches of Pharisees we could, but he doesn't want us near wolves

[@StevenDuBeau]

@@elizabethkass49 That verse doesn't say anything about where to go to church. It tells you how to pray.

[@elizabethkass49]

@@StevenDuBeau Jesus defeated the devil by quoteing and he said just as did, if you don't know where it says that, than I'm afraid you haven't met the spirit. Because the spirit taught all the important verses not a man

[@ConcatenateAgonWorld]

Thanks for this. Much appreciated.

[@moonman5543]

Its just that it has been hard to find authentic relationships there. Most are based out of duty, obligation, going through the motions or just putting a smile on your face while you say hi

[@overnow4315]

Is why I dont really talk to nobody in my church

[@JoshuaAdrianjones]

Your not alone

[@sinistransgressionofthetor5449]

Wow thats sad

[@intothekey]

Then find a more biblical church

[@meredithacurry32]

I needed this! Thank you.

[@jasondanner6630]

So wonderful mike! God bless you and thank you for the work you've been doing all these years. You inspire me and I am thankful we are brothers in Christ, each play our role in the body of Christ that is his church.

[@mybelovedisjesuschrist5591]

Praise the Living God. He has gifted me BIG TIME with discernment.

[@kelsieelmore1396]

I was doing some campus evangelism yetstday, and a bunch of the students I was talking to said they were Christian but hadn’t been attending a church all school year or only watching services online. I knew this wasn’t right, but I didn’t have the greatest arguments for it. Thanks for the video, I’ll be ready for next time!

[@DunateoRom8v37]

Mate. This is a far cry from how you do it now. God bless your ministry and ALL Glory to Him.

[@MR-gv3ob]

I am blessed by your wisdom and teaching.

[@assassingiantTheRiddlerStream]

Love it Mike! Awesome job!

[@kcasto-ze3pm]

God bless you, Mike! First for your knowledge and willingness to share it, and second for removing that intro jingle in your newer videos

[@cathymartin9874]

Thank you I need this

[@rauldelarosa2768]

So sharing this.. Thank you.. I have met those who are hurt by those who name the name of Christ. And yet they refuse to heal.. And move forward in obedience to Hebrews 10:25.

[@authorpreneursecrets]

This is helpful. Thank you.

[@MrAikidoka30]

Well explained my dear brother...keep spreading good fruits...love your videos...thank you!

[@rigmedic83]

I love your videos brother, keep em up.

[@candyDander]

Inspiring video! It definitely gave me more encouragement to try and break out of my shell and attend a local church. It'd be nice to be around other believers in these darkening times.

[@ChristianTrucker]

Great Message

[@joeytip75]

Good word Brother

[@KrscanskaApologetika]

Great video... God bless

[@gabeordave6170]

I love it. Thank you

[@jackibradley7517]

Excellent video!!

[@James5877]

Great video brother. Keep up the good work!!

[@rebeccacashel7609]

Because I would love to find a GOOD church I am trying to get to a place where I am brave enough to go back. Wish I could find one that leaves me feeling closer to Christ and no wanting to run for the hills. I'm just not willing to accept the behavior I experienced from church members in the past. There was shunning, gossip, lies and mild abuse. Perhaps that is not your experience but it is mine. It does happen to some of us and the denial of that is what made me lose trust of the church. If it were my own fault I would admit it and change it. It's not me in this case. Never was. It seems any time one questions their bad actions they turn it around on you and say you lack faith. Honestly, I don't lack faith in God. I lack faith in many of his followers. What if we leave feeling shunned and more alone? Please don't tell me it's in my own head because that excuse for the bad actions of others is scapegoating. Something Christ taught against. Some of us love Christ more than anything but just can't be part of something that has hurt us.

[@kevinwynn6582]

+Rebecca Cashel just a suggestion from my personal experience, if you love Christ you can find him in the church he founded 2000 years ago. the Catholic Church. God Bless you in your search.

[@rebeccacashel7609]

I have already found Christ and he me. What I do not understand is why many believe I must be part of a church to be considered saved. I went through all of that and have been baptized by choice. Not everyone wants to be part of a group for worship. I would say I don't want to be disrespectful but I feel disrespected when people assume I have no given my life to Christ. God bless.

[@kevinwynn6582]

+Rebecca Cashel Rebecca I'm sorry I didn't mean to imply that you were not saved. membership in any church is not going save anyone. you are right we need to have a personal relationship with Christ. I don't know what churches that you have been to I was just trying to tell you about the one I belong to because I thought you were looking for a good church. I believe that the Catholic church is the church Jesus Christ built on his apostles and I have experienced the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. If you want to experience Christ in a way you might not have known was possible find a Catholic church that has an adoration chapel where the Eucharist is exposed and just go there and talk to Jesus. there should be allot of churches that are having adoration this time of year. it's usually not crowded if you go during the week and no one will be trying to talk to you they will just be praying quietly. I would encourage anyone to go at least once and see for yourself. Christ is truly really present in the Eucharist.:-)

[@rebeccacashel7609]

kevin wynn , I understand and thank you for your suggestion. I have a friend who is Catholic and she is so happy. She converted from Baptist many years ago. You can see Christ in her and through her. I have attended with her on special occasions. When her sons were confirmed and also an Easter service that was more than beautiful.

[@Mcfirefly2]

Rebecca Cashel

[@user-kl3nl1iv4w]

Great job mike …..

[@SalvarezP]

The church I attend to makes me feel the opposite of what we should feel when we gather together. I feel guilt, remorse,and I don't come out feeling refreshed. All I think about is that I'm not doing enough for God. It's very draining. I've stopped going. I pray and read the bible everyday. I do this with my daughters as well. I listen to yt videos but it's not the same. I know I need to commit to my church but I'm seriously thinking about finding a different one, a different denomination I mean. Pray for me my brothers and sisters in Christ 🙏

[@sunsetstormx]

God will lead you. You should not walk out of church feeling condemned. That's too bad that you went through that but thank God you realized it was not right. Follow where God leads you. It should be encouraging and convicting and challenging but never condemning and depressing!!

[@BonoTheManShow]

Good stuff me and wife was watching we like you God bless

[@SophiaStultz]

Great Video!

[@ruekjaeg4863]

Thanks Blessings

[@StressFreeDentistry]

I like this one, totally agree.

[@edwinrivera8449]

I love the fact he shows us his number fingers. He has to be a dad. Loved the video. Thanks for up lading.

[@kevaughnharrison9761]

The issue with this is that scriptures which support the follower should not neglect church wasn't talking about the factions we have nowadays. In the bible the church was just simply believers seeking truth not people who've chosen to label themselves based on a particular doctrine which is what Paul.was talking about.

[@bermudaone9455]

Good job man!

[@SulaBintley]

This makes me glad I continue going to Church....

[@reasy1978]

You're bei g deceived sadly.

[@Intelligent_observer]

Hey I’ve been hurt by religion and church that’s a valid reason 😂 I find it funny cuz that’s literally what I told my wife 10 minutes ago. Subbed

[@Giologico95]

Que Dios siga dándole la sabiduría en estos vídeos siga adelante! En Cristo! :)

[@melissamartin5910]

Thank you

[@tiredofchurchs7407]

Nice video. Very informative. I truly wish the pastors and ministers were truly gifted. Every church I attended had a pastor that was chosen by a board, and a seminary. They taught fables that I could not understand. I then figured the bible says not to be entangled with unbelievers. This is a good video. It is truly about love.

great video

[@pipyo5035]

#6 opened my eyes XD

[@rhowell0317]

Amen brother!

[@jaimemcalister7055]

While, most of these points I agree with, I think it’s crazy to kind of dismiss “church hurt” the way you have here. We’ve had several issues with people trying to come to the Lord and being slapped back from that, because of “saints”. THATS a serious issue and bitterness inside of the church, that’s SHOULD be dealt with, but instead-so many pastors are worried about numbers in pews, rather than cutting that kind of stuff off at the pass. Jesus himself said “suffer not these little ones” I don’t think that was only referring to children, but babes in Christ. And if we are hurting them from the inside, that’s an issue that doesn’t necessarily start with the unsaved.

[@PracticalFaith]

I just posted my first video, and it's on this topic. Been following you for a year or two and never saw this video. It's a little discouraging that you were this good on camera so long ago 🤔. This is awesome content. Wish I would have seen this first

[@warriorofgod5587]

A true Saint doesn’t want to keep sitting up in a church building hearing the same songs, same sermons, seeing the same people week after week. We are the church everywhere we go and in this current spiritual climate you cannot tell me that these are Saints in these church services!

[@SuperSnooki14]

I cant be completely sure i will go to church this sunday but i want to right now as i see its benefits and the effects of not assembling with other believers.

[@marshallturner6085]

It’s encouraging that you recognize and see what church actually is. Church isn’t a place you go to on Sunday mornings. Church is gathering with other believers, on a consistent basis, and growing in the Lord and in relationship and love with eachother.

[@MsHarvardgirl]

SOLID- Thanks for sharing...very organized and I'm glad you referenced scripture- I did something similar to this on FB so I referenced your video for more details! :o) #JesusisLord

[@2asiansandawhiteguy2]

Organized religion isn’t about actually being “organized” as in like a set standard. It’s the idea of the organization of religions. It’s the idea of people constantly fighting and bickering about their respective religions, a group of flawed peoples interpreting the Bible in order yo say that “my religion is right, and yours is wrong and because of that your soul is doomed”. That’s what people mean when they say they’re against organized religion. For example, i was raised Mormon and left that church when i was about 12. as a teenager I was involved in a non-denominational Christian church, and I showed up to a youth event and was straight up asked, “what are you doing here? Aren’t you Mormon?” And because of that snarky comment, people looked at me differently and treated me differently because of my upbringing.

[@mariahconklin4150]

Okay so going to a bad church makes me even feel more lonely because people give the worst advice, try and control, feel weird around them, most people are married or old so I can’t relate and I went to saddleback church growing up which was not right for me. Idk I get weird not only when I’m alone but worse when I go to the wrong church. I want to learn about Jesus not find the next best thing or class they have to offer like all the mega churches. Idk why I feel super close to my co workers like that’s a covenant yet I don’t feel close to anyone in the church. I’m hoping this will change.

[@martin9410]

This is the answer you're always going to get when its origin is from a traditional Christian church. They really can't teach otherwise without fear of lost attendance, decrease in salaries, etc. I used to be a salaried Senior Pastor, so I always knew the dangerous discussions to avoid. I was hoping he wouldn't site Hebrews 10:24-25, but he did. This is the "go-to" verse on church attendance. This is actually the only passage in the entire New Testament that says to "attend," when misinterpreted. But is this what the passage is really speaking about? If you consider the context, it's actually addressing something else entirely. It is speaking of that "blessed hope," of Christ's return. Notice also this oft quoted section of Scripture: "Forsaking not the assembling of ourselves..." The Greek word for "assembling," is used in only one other passage in the New Testament. It is found in the context of 2 These. 2:1-2, where is speaks of our being "gathered" to Him at His return. The Hebrews passage is saying the same. We are not to forget, abandon (or another way to put it, we should keep in the forefront of our mind) the time of our being assembled with Him as we see that Day approaching. And if we were to stick to the inaccurate interpretation of "church attendance," it never speaks of where or when this fellowship is to take place. Nothing about Sunday or Saturday in this text. Secondly, the current traditional church does not represent our early ancestors, for they met throughout the week for fellowship in each other's homes. The typical traditional church of today still incorporates much from the Roman Catholic Church. The Senior Pastor now serves in the role of the Catholic priest, even though he no longer absolves of sin, etc. But the church still revolves around his teaching, preaching, ministry and vision. He is still placed on a spiritual pedestal. He is still addressed with a respectful title (even though Jesus condemned this in Matthew 23). God's people are divided by all these manmade Christian institutional churches. Plus, there is no command to give to a church every week. It just isn't in the Bible, but they won't tell you these things. 1 Cor. 16:1-2 can't be used because that is addressing saving, not giving (lay by in store), and it is for a special collection that Paul is collecting. It is not non-ending. In fact, as one studies the New Testament carefully, he or she will discover that the entire reason for giving was to provide for needy saints such as widows, orphans, traveling Apostles and missionaries. It was never for salaried local pastors. Not even Jewish Rabbis were paid till about the 5 or 6th century. And this is only the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more that I could say about this.

[@mommar394]

The preach Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Enough of the truth will run off the money changers. Your calling is to spiritually lead the church, and not give into it's fleshly desires.

[@christainnunez7149]

hey gby and Amen

[@gordon3186]

*"Knock knock."* *"Who's there?"* *"It's me, Jesus... Let me in."* *"Let you in why?"* *"So I can save you."* *"Save me from what?"* *"From what I'm going to do to you if you don't let me in."*

[@c.randall1135]

"Church" started out with a few gathered in private homes...without sole spectators, all were involved in the gathering in some way. Jesus clearly said that leaders should serve and not take titles. Apostle, prophet and pastor are job descriptions, not titles. One if the main changes that occurred happened 70 years after Jesus' death and resurrection. Ignatious, leader of the church in Antioch instituted a hierarchy of leadership. This was based on Roman City Government. The bible clearly states that competition leads to ambition and envy. The bible promotes "regarding one another as more important as one's self." It does not support competition. Also, another major change happened 230 years after that. The Roman Emperor Constatine made Christianity the official religion if the Empire. Instead of being a persecuted minority humbly serving the outcasts if society, we have church as we know it today. It was never meant to be an institution. It was meant to be a body in the image if Jesus, with love reigning and definitely without competition and envy. The church today doesn't need reformation, it needs transformation!! Don't continue to be deceived.

[@T-CSM]

c. randall and also there were elders(plural) over the churches, not just 1 usurping authority over a congregation

[@lilchristuten7568]

Constantine did not make Christianity the official religion of the empire. Constantine made it illegal to persecute Christians for their beliefs.

[@lilchristuten7568]

@@T-CSM This is an issue that affects both the pastors and the members equally. Pastors need other elders to help shepherd the congregation so as not to be overwhelmed by their need and the members need other elders to go to for guidance so as not to all depend on one person. We saw that kind of stagnation with Moses when he was leading the Israelites after first leaving Egypt.

[@reasy1978]

@@lilchristuten7568 NOWHERE in the Bible does it say "pastors" are shepherds over the body. JESUS is. The function (not title) of Pastor is one of the spiritual gifts which can only be Holy Spirit ordained, not man ordained. These fake "pastors" are ordained by man via seminary school which is a business, not their true spiritual gift. Those functioning as true pastors dont preach to believers in buildings, they GO OUT INTO THE WORLD like Jesus taught and preach the Gospel to UNBELIEVERS. Scripture also says that its ALL BELIEVERS' job to teach each other, not just the office of pastor.

[@lilchristuten7568]

@@reasy1978 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. John 21:15‭-‬17 KJV This is the illustration of what it is to be a pastor. They feed the flock with the word of God, they also guard the flock against the enemy. SHEP'HERD, noun 1. A man employed in tending, feeding and gaurding sheep in the pasture P'ASTOR, noun [Latin from pasco, pastum, to feed.] 1. A shepherd; one that has the care of flocks and herds. 2. A minister of the gospel who has the charge of a church and congregation, whose duty is to watch over the people of his charge, and instruct them in the sacred doctrines of the christian religion. P'ASTURE, noun [Latin pasco, pastum, to feed.] 1. Grass for the food of cattle; the food of cattle taken by grazing. 2. Ground covered with grass appropriated for the food or cattle. 3. Human culture; education.

[@jonmoonswesternnyoutdoorad5750]

Church is cool, but pursuing after God Himself is even better. True religion, pure and undefiled is caring for the widows and fatherless. I dont need someone to tell me that is the right thing to do. The law is written on my heart now.

[@lilchristuten7568]

True religion is about setting yourself or your group apart from others and condemning anyone who doesn't believe the way that you do. Christianity is not religion it is a relationship with God and his people. Religion is man made doctrine that are set in place to dictate the actions of people and inspire pride/prejudice towards those who don't follow the doctrine. More often than not, those who claim to have been hurt by the Church are people who have been hurt by religious beliefs or practices that certain people in/of the Church have; clothing used to be one of the biggest religious issues that affected the Church because they would turn people away or escort people out of the church building because they were not wearing stuff according to a strick dress code, women couldn't have their ankles showing, men had to wear suits or they were not allowed to enter the building. That sort of foolishness is what religion is

[@billhildebrand5053]

Church is cool, but pursuing after God Himself is even better. True religion, pure and undefiled is caring for the widows and fatherless. I dont need someone to tell me that is the right thing to do. The law is written on my heart now.

[@valeriecueto8289]

Another awesome video thanks!

[@theodorejohnson1681]

Pray i find a good fellowship and gathering !

[@lesleycollett9269]

The believers met on the Sabbath - the 7th day was their day of worship, as the 10 commandments say, and as Jesus did, as his custom was. Any other day was for other fellowshipping, as we still do, i.e., prayer meetings, etc, church business meetings, etc.

[@reasy1978]

No they did not. The religious pharisees, scribes and sadducees met on Sabbath. The new covenant church met in each others' homes as they felt to do so.

[@Howie47]

The Church was and is the "assembly (church) of the body of believers" (who traveled through the wilderness together) So the only way we can go to that "body", is when we become one with it, spiritually, and recognize, are spiritually joined to, and fellowship with, even cooperate together with. Those who have turned the church into an organized hierarchy of paid leadership. With a centralized meeting hall. Usually are a gate back into the World, the Spirit is trying to lead us out of. They are in error! Like the Bible plainly says. "do not preach for filthy lucre sake," and "trust not in lying words, saying the temple of the Lord are these". And from the beginning of the movement of the Holy Spirit, recorded in the book of Acts. The Church was scattered from their centralized assembly in Jerusalem, by persecution, into all the world, to preach the gospel. This spirit lead movement sometimes solidified into a worldly like business of running the Church. Which through the ages, has done more damage to the movement of God than good. All of that doesn't mean God can't or doesn't use the local assemblies to benefit individual attendees. It does mean that the so called church assembly, has some merit but many faults. Check the letters to the churches in Revelations. When hierarchy lead assemblies fell away from the Lord. It was usually as a group they were lead astray by the teaching of their local leaders. It was individuals, or family unites, that kept themselves pure from worldly influences, better than the body of believers. People who want to make a living off of the church. Are the ones usually responsible for this failure.

[@faithmomlife1504]

Oh man.. I feel so alone in my Christian walk. My hubby is a non believer but does attend church with me. Since church isn't really his favorite place to be we're pretty in and out so I haven't met anyone😕

[@SteveWV]

just continue to pray for him, pray God would save him.. but also know that not everybody who hears the word well receive it..

[@havenofear7033]

Womens Bible studies? Some type of volunteering with others at your church to open fellowship opportunities? Don't stop praying for that man. The prayers of a virtuous woman avails much. Hang in there. God is with you.

[@intothekey]

I know this was posted 5 years ago but I hope things have improved for you

[@YouTubeCertified]

Bring back the Bible Thinker jingle! (At the intro) maybe speed it up for a new effect. Random unrequested suggestion. ;-)

[@jusluisa1904]

Convincing.... I can't wait to go to church now👍🏽 Thank you Mike!

[@tranquilitybase7860]

A always gather with Christian' s and never went to a church. That is the thing that gives me strength.

[@timothybierl2746]

For many years I did not believe in organized religion. I was raise catholic and as I matured and read the Bible, I found catholicism did way to many things that contradict led Bible teachings I went searching and found problems with the major denominations. About 5 years ago, I returned to church, a non-denominational Church and now have a deepening faith and growing relationship with God. I give thanks that God never gave up on me.

[@Jesus_Saves_66]

If we believers are the church - how can we go to church? Yes we can gather with the church, but we don’t go to church, we are the church that gathers in Jesus name.

[@kfcpop]

lol, glad that you added #6 "So you dont get weird." I use to be a loner most of my early teen years. Long story short, made great friends of believers and overcome some of my awkwardness when it comes with talking with other people. Also, I encourage all of you to get involve in the church some way. It is a great way to grow as a person and with God. Great video and hope to see more!

[@havenofear7033]

You are so right. I still struggle because I am outgoing and many others are not. But I get real wierd if not in regular fellowship. Plus I backslide without accountability.

[@kamesenLBC]

I love your videos Mike Winger!

[@synnelightstar7218]

IK this is off topic, but is that frame on the left a picture of you, Mike? XD Great video btw!

[@DreDredel3]

I hit "Like" even before the video started because in my experience as an evangelist i have come accross too many people with such excuses. It's like a sick person saying "I won't go to the hospital until i get better". Church is for spiritual growth and healing, you won't truly attain it until you go out there and experience the Bible. I used to think like that, but after further study of the Bible i realized i was making a grave mistake. Before, my line of thinking used to be : "As long as i read my Bible and have Jesus in my heart, what's the point of being part of a church?" One day after reading the parable of the vine - John 15:1-6 i realized i don't want to end up like the dried up branch that did not produce any fruit...years later i joined a well balanced church. Then i joined a ministry from that church that evangelizes patients at a hospital. i now understand what Jesus meant by "...so that you may have life and have it in abundance..." My life has become interseting, the alternative would've been me just sitting in a room playing video games instead of doing something productive in life that benefits humanity. Granted , no church is perfect, but at least join one that practices good Bible-based doctrine and that preaches the same Good News the apostles preached. Also, a church resembling the church mentioned in the Book of Acts on how they helped each other and cleaned up their community. Research what other things they did, "The Way" church, in the book of acts, is part of the criteria i would use. Galatians 1: 8-9 is another criteria i used to determine if it's a Christian church or a sect. It is one's duty to ask what they believe before committing yourself to them and MUST line up with the Bible, otherwise it's a "Red Flag"

[@worldviewscollide]

I want to go to church but the church hurt was too painful and deep. Hopefully I'll be able to soon.

[@craiglees5631]

Next vid🙏: What does a gathering look like, according to the Bible.

[@songsgardensbyjenniferlynn3242]

You could redo this video--but first read Richard Jacobson's Unchurching book and check out his comics. Also, Letter's To The Church by Francis Chan, and Pagan Christianity. I am currently not convince that God wants me to "go to church." Yes, by His will I am part of His church and He wants me to gather with other believers for "church" but it doesn't need to be in a building with paid pastors and worship leaders and children's programs, etc. This pandemic has really opened a way for people to see how we can change for the better.

[@chadrainey4054]

This is awesome stuff! okay, I get it you supposed to go to church to help other believers, and in turn, get help from others, but what about the issue of serving inside the church? . . . I'm a novelist and that's my ministry working in isolation a lot, but do I need to also step inside the church and serve there? . . . in other words how do I know if I supposed to serve IN the church?

[@limapeaks]

Mike I really appreciate you and your videos. I have recently left the morman church and basically it’s the only one in town. I live 50 miles away from any other church and I know I’m supposed to go to church but it’s impossible for personal reason why I can’t do 100 round trip every week. Is there a online church I can view. Thank you and keep up the great work.

[@intothekey]

When I can't make it to church I typically tune into grace to you.

[@livinginthespirit407]

When people say they don't like organized church, typically they mean they do not like the institutionalization, control, domination, indoctrination, etc, all of which tends to go along with these business institutions commonly referred to as churches. If as a non-catholic believer you think of the way the Catholic church has operated for centuries you get a good idea of what i mean. But in truth lots of this is also the case within perhaps the majority of non catholic institutions that call themselves christian churches as well. For example, the control of being told they have to find an institution to make into their home church in order to be a follower of Jesus, being told they need to "submit under" a pastor (most commonly a paid pastor), make this pastor and/or other leaders of the institution and/or the institution itself their "covering", being expected and/or pressured and/or guilted to give 10% of ones paycheck to this institution, being expected to just go along with what the institution, it's board, it's denomination, etc, has decided for you in pretty much every area of doctrinal belief and thus being expected to conform to all of these popularized institutionalized beliefs lest you be shunned, ostracized or worse, being expected to go to the institution every week lest you be looked down upon as if you are not committed to God Himself, being judged in various other ways for not conforming in every way to the expectations of the institution, its leaders and its congregants, and other negatives that are almost always associated with institutionalized / organized religion. As well, being expected to say none of the things i have said in this post lest you be shunned, ostracized or worse. Blessings to all.

[@sydneypenniesr.9474]

You did a great job with this. Thank you!!! Praise God! In terms of "organized religion", what if they go to their bank and the bank says we can't find your funds we have to look for your money and records of your deposits because we are not an organized financial institution. -Or if they go to the hospital to have surgery but the surgeon do not have your medical history file and the surgeon say we are just going to go for it any way and the surgeon says we can't find your medical history files because we are not organized and we don't believe in being an orgainized medical institution. We would be angry with other institutions if they are not organixed but we want the church to be unorganized. LOL.

[@Elewing]

I have been trying to explain some of this to my husband thanks. I just let it be on my speakers and let God plant the seeds that need to break down these walls. And bonus it explained a lot for me as well. Thank you so much

[@reasy1978]

Sorry but you're wrong. Jesus tore down the temple system and never instructed man to rebuild it. You are deceived and need to study and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal truth to YOU.

[@FTG345]

Hi Mike Winger. What is the name of the song at the end of this video?

[@Gailsjournal]

1 Corinthians 14:26. I do have great concern over this in it not happening today. Bible says when everyone shares its a STRONG church. I don’t have a problem going but I’m very concerned about how the biblical model is so different. I’m having a hard time understanding why it wouldn’t concern people if they read the book of Acts. It was not business like. Ive been on the inside of leadership and it’s very unbiblical. I’m very concerned. 😔

[@sarahwashington00]

I hate going to church but I enjoyed that video tho thank you 🙏🏾

[@Ananias17]

Eastern Orthodox convert here. Awesome video . One thing you missed was the Eucharistic meal , holy communion . Jesus said in John 6:53 Then Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you” . How can you administer holy communion to yourself if you are a lone and rogue Christian? This is spiritual food that we partake in together as a body of believers

[@intothekey]

I'm not EO but 100% agree. Also physical church is a shadow of heaven

[@PerryCaramello]

I'm 34 and feel like I'm at the end of my life already. I've really been thinking about going back to church. It's been a very long time

[@Robert.S..]

@PerryCaramello, I don't know if you will see this comment, but I encourage you to attend church and draw closer to God. I'm 51 years old and the lord continues to strengthen my faith and and encourages me to continue living for him. You are only 34 and as long as you are alive the Lord give us opportunities to change and grow. Pray to the Lord to help you and guide you. That's what I did and I'm in a better place. I'll pray for you. God bless.

[@joningram4187]

The early church gathered in homes in small groups...broke bread...ate together and built relationships with each other

[@longliverocknroll5]

1) Money. 2) Money. 3) Money. 4) Money. 5) Money. 6) Money. 7) Money. 8) Money.

[@user-xn7pt5op4k]

Almost every church I've been to are all smiles and hugs INSIDE the walls of the building but dont bother with me outside of the building.. even if I invite and offer to pay for lunch or whatever.. even after I asked why they only hug and smile inside on sundays but nothing else outside of the church they still ignore me. I can only assume its me, or its fake.

[@heaveneternal6038]

Is repentance, I go to church… Remember… But what think you? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him. Matthew 21:28-32 In JESUS Name… + + + And they went out, and preached that men should repent. the kingdom of God…

[@lucysantiago2067]

Yes we should always go to church and praise God and learn his words and learn all that he want us to learn but it's hard now with this Corona with our churches are closed what I learned through this month That we are the church the church is there to guide us and help us in right ways but the church will not save you. your body is the Temple of the church as long as you believe in God and learn all that he wants you to learn and leave all things that is of the world and do right in God's eye and don't fashion yourself in many things the Lord God got so many laws that he want us to do he got so many things that he want us to do and it takes time and patience in God work in his Pace in his time we had to wait patiently and have faith and all in God hands God is always there with us no matter what as he sees all things the word is God in the Bible God is in every bit of the Bible words he's there to teach us in every step of are life

[@yohanabraham245]

@Mike Winger - what do you say to someone who says 'I can do small group but not church'

[@toliveischrist950]

It’s brave to “go to church” because you’re never guaranteed what you’ll hear or who you’ll meet or how you’ll feel when it’s over and you walk out the door. We’re still in this flesh and people in my experience (I’m including myself) aren’t completely trustworthy or loving…but God is! And as saints God is continuing to transform each of us to the image of his Son. Jesus asks us to love one another as he has loved us and that can be difficult yet doable, by his grace and in his strength. God has perfect love and patience for us in our struggles here and one day we’ll all be in heaven together with our Lord Jesus in fellowship with one another without any sin to hinder us. Until then, we need to bear with each other in love with forgiveness and we have been given every spiritual blessing in Christ to do this as we walk in the Spirit❤️ That’s awesome and wonderful! Hallelujah!

[@findabh]

There are lot of things, church is where believers meet and remember God's words. It's not a specific place where i have to go. And isolating verse is not for going to chuch or not, it's about meeting new people and sharing gospel. I only once went to church in Christmas last year and didn't go inside. It doesn't make me bad. I try to read and learn from online and tell people. I Follow Christ