Believing in Jesus Without Regular Church Attendance

This truth addresses the heart of the Christian faith, where salvation is not based on works, but on faith alone in Jesus Christ. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "we know that for those who love God all things work together for good," which underscores the sovereignty of God in salvation. The doctrine of justification by faith alone, as emphasized in the Reformed tradition, highlights that salvation is a gift of God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from any works or rituals, including church attendance or prayer.

However, a common misconception arises when one assumes that a lack of spiritual discipline, such as infrequent church attendance or prayer, is inconsequential to one's faith. While salvation is not earned through these practices, they are essential means of grace, whereby believers nurture their faith and demonstrate the reality of their profession. The Westminster Confession of Faith emphasizes the importance of the ordinary means of grace, including the preaching of the Word, the sacraments, and prayer, in the life of a believer.

The gospel connection to this truth lies in the reality that true faith in Jesus Christ will inevitably produce fruit, as seen in a desire to worship, pray, and fellowship with other believers. While it is possible for a believer to experience periods of spiritual dryness or neglect, a prolonged lack of interest in spiritual disciplines may indicate a deeper issue, such as a lack of genuine conversion or a need for repentance and renewal. As a pastor would counsel, it is essential to examine one's heart and ensure that faith in Jesus is not merely intellectual assent, but a living, vibrant relationship with Christ, demonstrated through a desire to follow Him and participate in the means of grace.