The New Testament places great importance on the responsibilities of Christians to the church. While much attention is often given to first principles like faith, repentance, and baptism, we must not neglect the obligations believers have to the body of Christ. As members of the church, we have a duty to honor God, serve others, and contribute to the growth of His kingdom. Let us examine these obligations and consider how we can fulfill them faithfully.
Love the Church
The foundation of every believer’s relationship with the church is love. Paul writes, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25, NASB). Christ’s sacrificial love for the church sets the standard for how we are to regard this spiritual body.
Paul’s love for the church is also evident in his ministry: “For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you with many tears; not so that you would be made sorrowful, but so that you might know the love which I have especially for you” (2 Corinthians 2:4, NASB). Loving the church means being invested in its well-being, showing care for its members, and prioritizing its mission. This love should be reflected in our actions, attitudes, and service.
Put the Church First
Jesus commands His followers to “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33, NASB). This means prioritizing the work and mission of the church above personal pursuits, whether they be career goals, hobbies, or other interests.
When we put the church first, we ensure that our lives align with God’s will. This commitment involves attending services, participating in ministries, and supporting the church’s efforts to spread the gospel. The church must hold a central place in our lives, shaping our decisions and guiding our priorities.
Use Talents in the Church
Every believer is uniquely gifted and called to use their talents for the benefit of the church. In the parable of the talents, Jesus illustrates the importance of faithful stewardship: “For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have will be taken away” (Matthew 25:29, NASB). God expects us to use our abilities to serve others and advance His kingdom.
Excuses have no place in the work of the church. Instead, we should actively seek ways to grow in service, preparing ourselves for greater opportunities to contribute. Whether teaching, encouraging, giving, or leading, there is a role for everyone in the body of Christ.
Be Faithful in Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for spiritual growth and community. Hebrews 10:25 exhorts believers, “not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near” (NASB). Gathering with fellow Christians strengthens our faith and fosters unity within the church.
Failure to attend not only weakens our spiritual life but also sets a poor example for others. By being present, we demonstrate our commitment to God and encourage others to remain steadfast in their faith.
Financially Support the Church
The work of the church requires resources, and God commands His people to give generously. Paul instructs the Corinthians, “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you are to do as well. On the first day of every week, each of you is to put aside and save as he may prosper” (1 Corinthians 16:1-2, NASB). Supporting the church financially allows it to carry out its mission of teaching, benevolence, and evangelism.
Giving is not just a duty but an act of worship, reflecting our gratitude for God’s blessings. As Paul reminds us, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NASB).
Live Righteously
Faithful living is a vital obligation of every Christian. Titus 2:11-12 teaches, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age” (NASB). Our daily conduct should reflect the values of the kingdom of God.
James 1:27 emphasizes the importance of living out our faith: “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world” (NASB). Right living involves both moral integrity and active service to others.
Defend the Truth
Paul was unwavering in his defense of the gospel, writing, “I am appointed for the defense of the gospel” (Philippians 1:17, NASB). As Christians, we are called to uphold the truth of God’s word, never apologizing for biblical principles or compromising our faith to appease others. Jude 3 encourages believers to “contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints” (NASB).
Defending the truth requires knowledge, courage, and a deep commitment to God’s word. By standing firm, we honor God and protect the integrity of the church.
Pray for the Church
Prayer is a powerful tool in supporting the church and its mission. Paul urges, “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2, NASB). We should pray for the church’s leaders, its members, and its outreach efforts, asking God to strengthen and guide His people.
Prayer also fosters unity, reminding us of our dependence on God and our shared commitment to His purposes. As Paul writes, “With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18, NASB).
Be a Faithful Member
Faithfulness is the hallmark of a committed Christian. Jesus promises, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10, NASB). This faithfulness includes consistency in worship, service, and living out our faith, regardless of circumstances.
Faithful members contribute to the growth and health of the church, ensuring that it remains a strong and vibrant witness to the world. Through faithfulness, we demonstrate our love for God and our dedication to His kingdom.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Understanding our obligations to the church helps us become better servants of the Lord. Every Christian has a role to play in the growth of God’s kingdom, and there is work for every member. As we fulfill these responsibilities—loving the church, putting it first, using our talents, attending faithfully, supporting it financially, living righteously, defending the truth, praying, and remaining faithful—we honor God and strengthen His body.
Let us recommit ourselves to these vital duties, remembering that our service to the church is ultimately service to Christ. As Paul writes, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord and not for people” (Colossians 3:23, NASB). Through our obedience, we bring glory to God and fulfill our calling as His people.
The Simple Gospel 