Why go to church? Because the church is a living organism.
You remove your pancreas or esophagus or left arm, and it will cease to live outside your body.
The New Testament knows nothing about a Christian who is not connected to a church. Your gifts, skills, ideas, service, leadership, resources, love—everything you have to offer—is a crucial part to a congregation thriving.
Go to church because your presence matters more than you think.
Many times, we think we won’t be missed.
I don’t vote on election day because it doesn’t really matter. I don’t show up for my kid’s basketball game because he won’t even notice. I commit to the workday, then stay home because surely they have enough people. I stay home and watch the service online because who will even notice that I’m not there?
But that is so shortsighted and inaccurate. You underestimate the significance of your presence when you think it doesn’t matter. You undervalue the power of the Spirit of God residing within you when you believe staying home is just as good as showing up. You possibly miss what God wants to do through you and for you when you stay home.
So Why Provide Online Church Services?
Because there are lonely, isolated people in the world, and it provides a bridge to them so they can eventually take a step into a community of faith.
Because the Internet reaches billions of people all over the world, some who are not close enough to participate in a vibrant church.
Because there are times when you are out of town, on vacation, or away at college, and it gives you a link to stay connected to your church.
Because it serves as an easy invite tool for your friends who aren’t ready to step into a physical gathering, but they are hurting and need Jesus, and an online service can help you reach them.
Those are my thoughts. How would you have answered the same question?