No Substitute for Worship in a Community of Faith

I don't think the correct response here is "Well, as long as he's praying in private". No, I think the correct response is that it's HIS life, his spirituality and his "soul". We elected him for reasons (I would hope) other than that he goes to church, so let's let him live his life and accomplish those goals with what he needs.

While faith can - and should - be an intensely personal matter, there is a dynamic at work in the interaction with others of like faith. Jesus talked about the idea of "two or three" gathered in His name - promising his presence.

Dr. Taylor eloquently articulates the argument for church attendance. One thing that church attendance on the part of a political leader demonstrates is humility - a key component of genuine faith.

It is certainly possible to be an effective and growing Christian without church -- but only if one actually lives on a deserted island.

Otherwise, fellowship in the context of a local body is not only scriptural, it is beneficial - even essential to growth, balance, and spiritual health.

No professing Christian is above the local church and beyond the need for real-life fellowship around a common faith - no matter how powerful or influential. - DRS

Dear Rev Taylor

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Soja John Thaikattil
Sydney, Australia

Are you serious? The going to hell part is a bit too far, my opinion and all do respect. In addition the Semitic Bible states in Matthew 6:

5"And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love(A) to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others.(B) Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6But when you pray,(C) go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret.(D) And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
7"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as(E) the Gentiles do, for(F) they think that they will be heard(G) for their many words. 8Do not be like them,(H) for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9(I)

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So, all do respect---Obama for the last three weeks could have been praying in secret, worshipping in secret. The bible clearly states that we do not have to go to church---"to be seen by men". If one likes to go to church- fine---that their decision with their Creator---not for the public to speculate and surly to state one is going to hell for not going.

Blessings!