Well, not literally, but it can
make you spiritually numb!
We have seen religious churches that don't
believe much in God as loving Father, but instead one of man-made rules, laws
and doctrine. They preach God is ready to zap them for their sins and
somehow must rid of these sins in their own strength.
If I only had a nickel for
every person that has turned from God and the church because of these false
teachings and hypocritical ways.
If I know the shepherd, Jesus,
than I am his sheep,
and His sheep know His voice. In other words, Jesus has left us
the Holy Spirit to allow us to discern his teachings, so I need to be actively
discerning all I hear while in church. If it doesn't line up with God's
word and His character -- it ain't so!! It doesn't matter who on this earth says
it!
Choose carefully who you listen
to and what church you attend. There are times that I have been better off
in my relationship with the Lord not attending a church that misses truth. Does
this mean you need to find the 'perfect' church? Good luck!!!! We've never seen
such a thing. Churches are full of people just like me, fallible and not
perfect. But a good church must essentially be founded on and be teaching the
truth. The bible tells us that churches that teach anything but the truth, teach
heresy. I have learned to keep my eyes on God, not men because if I base my
faith on people I will always be disappointed and led astray!!!!!
The Sabbath in the new covenant
is for all times. I continuously commune with God throughout the week, not
just an hour or two on Sundays. I'm not going to hell for not going to
church, but I may, if I turn away from God due to false teachings.
Now don't let this be an excuse
to sleep in on Sunday's, for the Lord tells us if we
don't gather with him we will be scattered. We need other
Christians in our life to be an example to us and to help renew our minds.
It's an ungodly world out there, and I need all the help I can get to face it
week after week. For me personally, the praise and worship alone
draws me closer to God, even if I have to walk out before the preaching begins!
I guess the point is, don't go
to church for the wrong reasons. Real righteousness comes from Jesus, only
self-righteousness comes from pride on your attendance record!