Why Did You Stop Going to Church?

Daily Devotional – Monday, January 31, 2022

Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…

Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV)

“Why did you stop going to church?” A popular comedian asked on his Facebook page. What followed were more than a thousand replies, most of them confirming the existence of many former churchgoers.

“The Church is Full of Hypocrites”

Here is a paraphrased sample of the most common responses:

“The church is full of pretenders.”

“The church was interested in my money more than my spiritual wellbeing.”

“Church members judged me harshly when I conceived out of wedlock.”

“When I became sick, no one came to visit me. So, when I recovered, I decided not to go where I was not valued.”

I realized my church was for rich people because the pastor emphasized large amounts of offering.”

“Church leaders are immoral and corrupt. They did not set a good example for believers.

Cursed is the Man Who Trusts in Man

A common thread in these responses is the real or perceived negative examples of church leaders and prominent members among former churchgoers. Apparently, those who stopped going to church had built their faith on their religious leaders and fellow church members.

This is a dangerous attitude and trend in the exercise of faith. The Bible teaches unequivocally that a human being cannot depend on another one, especially in the exercise of faith.

Here is Jeremiah’s strong warning: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the LORD.” (Jeremiah 17:5). Man is fallible. After all, he is flesh and blood. Even the strongest Christian is susceptible to Satan’s snares.

Looking Unto Jesus

Since we cannot fully depend on fellow believers to model Jesus perfectly, we have one option. The writer of Hebrews expresses it this way:

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2).

Jesus in our only perfect example. We should not focus on what imperfect believers do. Like us, they will miss the mark often. Our spiritual leaders can utter statements and engage in acts that shame Christ and hurt us. This proves they are sinners in need of Christ’s forgiveness.

Start Going to Church Again

Instead, let our focus be on Jesus, who “was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15). Concerning the claim that some believers are hypocrites, is it not evidence that the church is the place to be? Who creates counterfeits where there are no originals?

If you stopped going to church for any reason, return today. Remember, Jesus, not human beings, is your example of righteousness. In addition, where there is dross, the precious mineral lies beneath.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, once again, I choose to follow you, the Author and Finisher of My faith.