Why do we need church? Why do we go to church? In Genesis 28 we read that Jacob named the place where he first encountered God, Bethel, which literally means the house of God. That means the first time Jacob encountered God was at church! The church was first birthed at Bethel, and the Bible shows us that it’s a place of three things.

Church is a place of God’s presence. It is the house of God, and He is always present. What makes a church a church and not just a building? The presence of God. Church is a place where you encounter God and experience His presence.

Church is a place of God’s protection. When you accept Christ into your heart, you become the church, and you are protected. Since you are the church, God is going to protect you at all times, not just when you are in a church building. This means that as a child of God, you and your children have angels with you and protecting you at all times.

Church is a place of God’s provision. God wants to provide for you. He has a purpose for your life, and He’s provided the church to help you fulfill it. Church is the place where you discover and explore the gifts and ministry God has given to you.

Church is the gateway to heaven, but you cannot get to heaven by yourself. You have to believe in Jesus and receive Him. John 1:51 shows us that Jesus is the only way to heaven. You have to confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 10:9). Make the choice to walk through the gateway into God’s presence, protection and provision. Believe in Jesus today, and receive Him.