From the archives of Oral Roberts
People often ask me if a person can live a Christian life and not attend church. I like to compare attending church to having your car serviced. The technicians don’t create your car; they simply improve its performance. In the same way, the church doesn’t make you a Christian, but it does enhance and strengthen your ability to live a committed Christian life the way Christ taught. God’s Word tells us not to forsake “the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).
Jesus Himself set the example for us to follow (see Luke 4:18). I especially love the services of the church, and I’ve found no substitute for the blessings, strength, and help they bring me.
I believe that every Christian should be a member of a good church. First Corinthians 12:12–31 describes the church as the body of Christ. The word “church” in the Bible refers to people, not to a place or a building. We can’t put the church inside four walls, so many hours a week. Being part of the body of Christ, the church, is a relationship. The church is in the hearts of those who are born again of the Spirit of God.
If you don’t already attend a church, I encourage you to start. Look for one that believes in the real Jesus, in His divine power to save, heal, bless, and guide you every day. It should teach that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that all who believe in Him may be healed and made whole in soul, mind, and body. You need the church, and the church needs you.