You don’t have to look far to find someone who says, “I love Jesus—I just don’t need the church.” Maybe you’ve even said it yourself. You’ve seen hypocrisy. You’ve experienced disappointment. You’ve found more peace in your quiet time than in a crowded sanctuary. But here’s the thing: if you read the Bible carefully, you’ll find that the church isn’t just a helpful option—it’s God’s design.
From the very beginning, God has said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” That wasn’t just about marriage—it was about community. When Jesus saves you, He doesn’t just rescue you from something (sin and death); He also brings you into something (His family—the church). You weren’t meant to follow Jesus in isolation.
Think about it: Jesus Himself lived in community. He walked with twelve disciples. He taught the crowds. He shared meals, sorrows, and prayers with people. If anyone could’ve done life and ministry alone, it was Him. But He didn’t. Why? Because God’s plan has always been people walking with people. The early church understood that. Acts 2 doesn’t describe a bunch of individuals going their separate ways after salvation. It describes a group of believers devoted to gathering, praying, worshiping, and growing—together.
Still not convinced?
Here’s the danger: when you try to follow Jesus alone, you’re more vulnerable than you think. You lose the encouragement of others when you’re discouraged. You lose accountability when you’re drifting. You miss out on the unique way God speaks and works through His people. Christianity was never meant to be a solo sport—it’s a team effort. Even the spiritual gifts God gives are designed to serve others, not just yourself (1 Corinthians 12).
Yes, church can be messy. It’s full of broken people just like you. But that’s exactly the point. The church is a bunch of imperfect people being made new by a perfect Savior. And through that messy, grace-filled community, God does something beautiful: He grows us. He shapes us. He reminds us we’re not alone.
If you’re staying away from church because of past pain, I get it. But don’t let your past rob you of what God wants to give you now. The church isn’t perfect—but it is necessary. It’s God’s idea, not ours. And it’s proof that He never intended for you to walk through life or faith on your own.
Following Jesus by yourself might feel easier, but it won’t make you stronger. We grow best when we grow together. Don’t settle for a private version of a public faith. The church isn’t just a place you attend—it’s a people you belong to.
So if you’re on the outside looking in, it’s time to take a step. Not just back to church—but back into the community God designed for your good and His glory.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
