Why I Go to Church

by Fanning Yater Tant (1908-1998)

There are so many reasons why people don’t go to church, but the following are some reasons why I do go.

Habit

“And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and as was His custom, He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath, and stood up to read” (Luke 4:16).

“And according to Paul's custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures” (Acts 17:2).

Need

“For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised” (Hebrews 10:36).

“I need Thee every hour, Most gracious Lord…” (words of a song we sing)

Pleasure

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).

“Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love…” (another song)

Fear

"And do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28).

Gratitude

“Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28)

Example

“Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us” (Philippians 3:17).

“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but [rather] in speech, conduct, love, faith [and] purity, show yourself an example of those who believe” (I Timothy 4:12).

Dear Readers, the foregoing was adapted from some notes I found on a page in my father’s Bible. – Jefferson David Tant.