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The Importance of Corporate Worship
In a recent podcast episode, Gunner Gunderson, author of “What If I Don’t Feel Like Going to Church?”, discussed the challenges of attending church during the pandemic and the importance of corporate worship. Gunderson emphasized that even when we don’t feel like going to church, it’s precisely when we need to lean into it the most.
Rediscovering the Power of Gathering
Gunderson reflected on his own experience as a pastor, including a time when his church building was flooded, and they had to meet at a different location. This experience taught him that the church is not just a building, but a people. He encouraged listeners to remember that our identity as the church is not tied to our physical address, but to our gathering together as believers.
The Most Important Time to Be at Church
Gunderson shared a striking phrase from his book: “The most important time to be at church is when you don’t feel like it.” He explained that this is precisely when we need to push through our feelings and attend church, as God does special things in our hearts when we gather together.
Cultivating a Sense of Belonging
Gunderson emphasized the importance of not just attending church, but also serving and contributing to the community. He encouraged church leaders to create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and has opportunities to use their gifts. This, in turn, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages people to stay engaged.
Dealing with Frustrations and Concerns
Gunderson acknowledged that sometimes people may feel frustrated or discouraged with their church experience. He encouraged them to seek wise counsel, pray for clarity, and and want’t’t199, and take active steps to discern what’s going on. He also urged church leaders to be receptive to concerns and criticisms, and to respond gently and kindly.
Spiritual Authority and Leadership
Gunderson addressed the common concern of skepticism towards spiritual authority and leadership. He emphasized that the problem isn’t the structure of authority, but sin and the human heart that expresses itself through that authority. Gunderson encouraged listeners to distinguish between objective
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