What Did Jesus Say About Not Going to Church?

The common misunderstanding that Jesus advocated for or opposed church attendance is rooted in a fundamental lack of understanding about the nature of religious practices during his time. In reality, the concept of a 'church' as we know it today did not exist during Jesus’ life.

Understanding Jesus' Context

“Church” means ‘congregation’ not building. The term 'church' in the modern sense refers to a physical building or an institutional structure for religious practice. However, when Jesus was alive, a 'church' was more accurately described as a ‘congregation’ - a gathering of people believing in God.

The idea of a church as a physical institution did not emerge until much later in Christian history. The earliest Christian communities were often comprised of small groups of believers who would gather in homes or other spaces temporarily for worship and prayer. This concept aligns more closely with Jesus' statement that a true 'church' is constituted when two or more people are gathered in his name.

Jesus' Teachings on Gatherings

Jesus' statements about congregation, not buildings. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus said, 'For where two or three gather in my name, there am I among them.' This passage does not refer to a physical church building, but to the spiritual presence of Jesus within a group of believers. The key point is the unity and faith of the group, not the location or architecture.

Modern Interpretations and Application

While Jesus did not speak about modern churches, his teachings can be interpreted and applied to everyday spiritual connections. Many Christians today use his statement as a reminder that true community and spiritual presence happen among people, not just in physical structures. This can be seen in various forms of contemporary Christian practices, such as local house churches, online communities, or simply small groups of believers meeting in a home or other informal setting.

Why the Concept Matters Today

The modern concept of church as a building or institution often creates barriers for people who may not feel comfortable or free in a traditional setting. Jesus' teachings about congregation encourage a more inclusive and accessible approach to faith. Anyone can find spiritual community when they feel a sense of belonging and are gathered with others who believe.

Conclusions

While Jesus did not explicitly mention not going to a church, his statements about congregation emphasize the importance of spiritual unity and unity of faith. This teaches us that the true nature of a church lies in the hearts and actions of its believers, not in the physical structure.

Key Takeaways:

Church as congregation: Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual unity and unity of faith over the physical location. Everyday spiritual connections: True community and spiritual presence can happen in various informal settings. Inclusivity: Jesus' teachings promote a more accessible and inclusive approach to faith.

Understanding the context of Jesus' teachings helps us apply them more meaningfully in today's diverse and evolving religious landscape.