What does the Bible say about going to church? Is it important to attend? What happens if we miss church, and why does church exist in the first place? Scripture gives clear insight into the purpose of gathering together as believers and how worship has evolved over time.
By looking at both the Old and New Testaments, we can better understand why church attendance matters and what God intends for His people when they assemble.
Why We Go to Church on the Sabbath
The concept of gathering for worship is rooted deep in the Old Testament.
Leviticus 23:3 states that six days are given for work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of rest and a holy convocation.
A convocation means an assembly or gathering. This teaches that the Sabbath is meant to be set apart as a day when God’s people come together for worship.
Holy Days and Sacred Assemblies
Leviticus also references specific holy days when God commanded His people to gather.
Leviticus 23:27 describes the Day of Atonement as a holy convocation, a day devoted to repentance and worship.
This day, known today as Yom Kippur, remains the holiest day in Judaism and emphasizes the importance of collective worship and reflection.
What Church Looked Like in the Old Testament
The Bible provides insight into how worship gatherings functioned anciently.
Nehemiah 9:1–3 describes the Israelites assembling together with fasting, confession, and scripture reading.
They spent significant time reading the law, confessing sins, and worshiping God. These gatherings were intentional moments to separate from the world and focus on repentance, learning, and devotion.
Gathering in the Name of Christ
In the New Testament, Jesus reinforced the importance of gathering together.
Matthew 18:20 teaches that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is present among them.
This shows that church does not require massive crowds—God values sincere, faithful assemblies of believers.
The First Day of the Week
After Christ’s resurrection, believers began gathering on the first day of the week.
John 20:19 describes the disciples assembling on the first day of the week, when Jesus appeared among them.
Acts 20:7 also records the disciples gathering to break bread and hear preaching on the first day of the week.
These verses establish a biblical pattern for Sunday worship among early Christians.
Scriptural Teachings on Regular Worship
Additional scripture emphasizes the importance of consistent gathering.
Mosiah 18:25 teaches that believers set aside one day each week to gather, teach, and worship God.
3 Nephi 18:22 instructs believers to meet together often and not forbid anyone from coming.
This reinforces that church should be welcoming, inclusive, and focused on teaching and worship.
How Worship Changed After Christ
Before Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, worship involved temple rituals and animal sacrifices.
After His crucifixion, worship took on new meaning.
4 Nephi 1:12 explains that believers no longer followed the Law of Moses but continued meeting together for prayer, fasting, and instruction.
Sacrifice became symbolic—a broken heart and a contrite spirit—while church became a place of encouragement, teaching, and spiritual growth.
The Sacrament and Remembrance of Christ
Church meetings also serve as a time to remember Jesus Christ.
Moroni 6:6 teaches that believers met together often to partake of bread and wine in remembrance of Him.
This ordinance strengthens faith and renews commitment to Christ.
How Church Meetings Are Guided
While church meetings may follow a structure, their purpose goes beyond routine.
Doctrine and Covenants 20:45 teaches that meetings should be conducted as guided by the Holy Ghost.
This allows worship services to be spiritually directed, addressing the needs of the congregation.
The Purpose of Going to Church
The Bible clearly explains why believers gather.
Doctrine and Covenants 43:8 teaches that when believers assemble, they are to instruct and edify one another.
Church is a place to learn, teach, uplift, and strengthen faith. It is where believers support one another, grow spiritually, and deepen their relationship with God.
Why Church Still Matters Today
Scripture consistently teaches that gathering together is part of God’s design for His people.
Church is not just about attendance—it is about worship, learning, remembrance, and community.
When believers gather in faith, guided by the Spirit, church becomes a powerful place of growth, connection, and spiritual renewal.
