By David Ettinger
Attend or Not Attend?
Perhaps the touchiest and most conscience-wrestling issue connected with Covid-19 for Christians is whether or not to attend church.
Here in the U.S., individual states differ in their laws allowing churches to stay open, and the restrictions imposed upon churches if attendance is permitted. Here in Florida, churches can operate rather freely. In California, attendance requirements are far more stringent.
So, the question is, during this worldwide pandemic, should Christians attend church or not?
Personal Beliefs
So much of the answer depends on the individual’s beliefs regarding the “legitimacy” of the coronavirus, mask-wearing, government intrusion into the lives of private citizens, and biblical teaching.
Not many people I know discard the coronavirus as a false sickness; it certainly is real! Regarding mask-wearing, opinions of its effectiveness run the gamut between lifesaving to a sham. I wear a mask whenever inside any public facility, but not when walking recreationally on empty streets or alone in my car.
Regarding government intrusion and church-attending, I understand the thinking. Close contact with many people increases the probability of contracting Covid-19, therefore attending church does increase the possibility of spreading the virus.
Those who favor closing churches, or at least imposing tight restrictions on attendance, would reason, If you contract Covid-19 from attending church, that’s fine – if you promise to stay in your home and never leave until it’s gone. But you’re not going to do that. You’re going to, at the least, go grocery shopping, and by so doing, you have the potential to spread the virus. As such, it’s safer not to go to church.
On the other side, many believe church-attending restrictions and bans are the first steps to closing churches in the battle against Christianity. I think this is legitimate.
Biblical Mandate
Then, of course, there is Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day [the return of Christ] approaching.”
Obviously, this biblical mandate does not include people who are sick, as they should stay home from church. But wouldn’t this also mean that in the face of a pandemic where people could catch a virus and die by attending church, that no one should attend church?
I believe this towering passage tells us that God wants our hearts in a place where we desire to meet and fellowship with other believers. God wants Christians “hanging out” together and worshiping Him with one voice. He also wants us serving and encouraging one another. But if so, and we obey this biblical mandate, would He not also grant us supernatural protection from the pandemic? I see no evidence of this.
Weak Conclusion
So, what’ my weak conclusion? I haven’t attended church since all of this began. As a cocky 40 year old I would have; now, as a humbled 62 year old, I’m way more cautious.
What about Hebrews 10:24-25? I’m in an enviable position. I work for a Christian ministry, Zion’s Hope, in Orlando, Florida. We have about 20 people here in the office and have weekly devotions. We practice social distancing, and have plenty of opportunity for “safe” Christian fellowship. We pray together, serve each other, and encourage each other daily, while being careful at the same time. We are fortunate!
Regarding Hebrews 10:24-25 for those of you not blessed as I am, I believe, first, we should have this verse’s mandate planted in our hearts, that we should want to fulfill it. Second, I believe that so long as our hearts are right with God and we desire to obey Him, we should apply both our hearts and minds to this very emotional issue.
We are all wired differently and must act in accordance with our conscience – so long as we fervently seek the Lord’s will, desire to please and obey Him, and, most importantly, are at peace with Him.
Not a very definitive solution, not that I believe there is one. What about you? I would love to know your views on this, and I know readers of this blog will read your comments on this “hot-button” issue. So please comment below!
May our Lord Jesus Christ fill you with His peace in these chaotic but extraordinary days!
Lisa Beth
July 28, 2020
Good and timely post, David. I don’t believe that opening our churches, against government sanctions, is justified by Hebrews 10:24-25. I believe the writer of Hebrews was warning against drifting away from the Body of Christ. Those connections are vital for encouragement and exhortations. However, I don’t see how it must be fulfilled in a church building.
I believe that the Lord is not testing our need to gather but rather our sufficiency in Him alone. Yes we can uplift one another, even in small home groups, on phone, etc. but are we content and fulfilled with an intimate relationship with our Lord?
God is calling us to ‘endure’. In days to come, we may lose more than ‘gathering together in a building’. Press on brother!
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
So well said, Lisa Beth, and I entirely agree! Thank you for taking the time to post such a thoughtful and insightful comment!
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jarilissima
July 28, 2020
It is very good that you’re cautious! Because the risk is higher for older people. The risk is quite rare to anyone under 20. I’m in my mid-30’s and still being cautious (though not paranoid).
Our church has done drive-in church 🙂 and they also post videos online, which helps me keep in touch.
I personally see Matthew 18:20 as a good way to do it: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” We can read the Bible and study with our families or close friends, and stay safe. A church doesn’t have to be a huge crowd 🙂 In my humble opinion.
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Very well said, and I agree. I particularly like: ” I’m in my mid-30’s and still being cautious (though not paranoid).” There is definitely a balance we must achieve, and it certainly appears as if you’ve found it!
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Bruce Cooper
July 28, 2020
Interesting post David, considering that there are recent reports of people in church choirs spreading the corona virus, same thing with Bible camps and convents, it would seem logical to me that considering that there is no blanket acknowledged manifestation of God protecting all Christians from the corona virus, that would indicate that we are indeed still susceptible to it, and as such, we do bear a responsibility to not only consider ourselves but also others when making a decision as to whether we get together and what precautions we utilize IAW recommended CDC safeguards. I also think, that when we disregard the common sense safeguards that have been given to us, we do in essence, place ourselves and others in jeopardy and by doing so, unnecessarily test God (Luke 4:12), when there is not a absolute requirement to do so. Considering that Jesus said that there was no greater love than one who would lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13), which has a noted inference of self sacrifice, it would seem to me that our personal preferences should be laid aside to encompass the needs and considerations of others, until such time that this threat is effectively removed. Does that mean that we can’t meet at all? Not necessarily, if prudent precautions and common sense limitations are implemented in an environment that dictates we can safely exercise this limited increased flexibility but conversely if the situation dictates that infections are rapidly increasing in our particular area, then more restrictive limitations do need to be considered and implemented. The strong in faith are encouraged to consider and accommodate, when possible, those who are weaker in faith and I would think that any plan that is put forward should include these considerations. I acknowledge this is a difficult determination to make and based on opinions I see being voiced by a large cross section of Christians in North America, a common consensus appears to be highly unlikely, which in itself gives us a picture of where the church is as a whole. It is sad. Blessings.
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
I absolutely agree, Bruce, as you expressed this common-sense analysis extremely well. As you say, church gatherings and Christian gatherings ARE spreading the virus, and we need to be aware of this. God is not divinely stepping in to prevent it, therefore, believers must try to discern how the Lord would have us react to the virus.
I think it’s crazy what’s going on out in California (the beach services) and am keeping a close eye on that. I’m also keeping a close eye on John MacArthur’s church. I have tremendous respect for him, but disagree with his stance.
Thanks so much for “chipping in,” Bruce. (I knew you would!)
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Bruce Cooper
July 28, 2020
That is scary David, I’m becoming predictable!
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vicklea
July 28, 2020
I am with you on this issue, David. I have been extremely cautious because of my age and all of my risk factors: stroke survivor, asthma and one kidney. I desire to fellowship with God’s people but God has given me peace about staying at home. I have struggled with the idea that perhaps I’m not demonstrating enough faith by staying in, but God has given me a spirit of wisdom and a sound mind and He is letting me know that it’s okay to be cautious. I still have people for whom I pray and who pray for me, but I don’t attend an assembly or meeting of any kind. God bless you for posting this necessary blog that will make people think about their choices.
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Well said, Vickie. You stated your viewpoints perfectly! Thank you for contributing!
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ken riddles
July 28, 2020
Daniel had no choice but to enter the Lion’s den. We have a choice. Having no choice – he was divinely insulated. Unless we have no choice or we are ‘a man sent from God’ into a given situation, then common sense is not a bad idea. I agree a balanced faith filled view. But as you say each must follow their own conscience. Blessings.
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Great points, Ken. So true on both counts regarding Daniel, and other men clearly called: No choice but to go where sent; clearly called by God. Much thanks!
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Blue Collar Theologian
July 28, 2020
Hi, David! Nathan and I have not been to the church building. Part of me wants to sign up for a gathering; however, Nathan is like absolutely not, no way. Part of me feels like the easy way is to stay away and not meet with others. I have anxiety gathering and anxiety not gathering. There is an unrest in my soul about this issue. I do feel like Vickie in that I am not exercising faith or trusting God in regards to being around other believers and/or going to the church building. I am 38 almost 39 type O blood, which according to one of my nursing friends may put me personally at a lower risk. Obviously, I could still be a carrier. I have peace knowing that life has changed. The life we knew before, we will know no more. I have no emotion saying that. I take courage and comfort knowing that God knows what is next. Hebrews 10:23-25 are verses I often quote to myself (or may be attacked with). In regards to church and seeing people in general, I just ask our gracious God for wisdom or how to navigate the new complexities of life! Feel free to not post my brain’s processing if it does not add to this conversation!
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Well said, Mandy. Your conflict of feelings is by all means natural and understandable, and no doubt reflects the feelings of many believers. You did a great job stating it.
While you were typing your thoughts, Ken made a brief but excellent comment. Check it out and see what you think.
Much thanks, Mandy!
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Blue Collar Theologian
July 28, 2020
Thank you for your encouragement! Ken’s comment makes a lot of sense. I love the Daniel analogy, so true! David, I am thankful for you!
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craig
July 28, 2020
What a difficult issue! The entire New Testament concept of “church” is predicated on regular gathering of local believers for fellowship, edification, teaching, encouragement, and even discipline. Of course, there are many aspects of western, institutionalized “church” that are nowhere to be found in the new testament, and perhaps one thing that may emerge from all of this is a rethinking of how we should be doing church in the west. Small, local gatherings as might be typical of house churches, with less formal, de facto leadership, and greater reliance upon the Holy Spirit, might both minimize the exposure involved, as well as help us shed some of the less biblical aspects of our denominational “Christianity.” Of course, that would bring new and different issues for God’s people, since the devil is a tireless adversary, but I sort of like the notion personally.
I should add that I am severely disabled and have not been physically able to attend church since 2012. I have my personal fellowship time, and participate in a weekly prayer group that meets by phone, and watch sermons and services online, but of all the things I have lost (and the list is very long) the thing that I absolutely miss the most is worshiping as a corporate body. My eyes cloud with tears just typing those words. O for the day when I will again worship the Lord as part of his body and lose myself in the joy of being in his presence with my brothers and sisters. Whatever happens, if it makes people’s hearts yearn like mine does, then perhaps it will be no bad thing. God bless, and thanks for a thought provoking read.
Psa 42:1 For the choir director. A Maskil of the sons of Korah. As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God.
Psa 42:2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; When shall I come and appear before God?
Psa 42:3 My tears have been my food day and night, While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?”
Psa 42:4 These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God, With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival.
Psa 42:5 Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence.
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Thank you so much, Craig. I absolutely agree with your first paragraph, as I believe we are getting ever nearer to house churches throughout the West.
Regarding your second paragraph, may the Lord bless you richly and bring healing to your body and spirit, and may you feel His presence at all times!
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Lady Quixote/Linda Lee
July 28, 2020
My husband and I haven’t been to a church service since the middle of March. More than anything, I miss our Sunday morning worship services, the Wednesday evening women’s Bible studies, and our Thursday evening prayer meetings. However, my husband is 71 and he has survived three heart attacks. He also has COPD and must sleep with oxygen and a cpap machine. I am 67 and I have asthma. I also Hashimoto’s and Graves autoimmune diseases. Lucky me — it is rare to have both!
We absolutely do have enough faith to believe that God can protect us from the coronavirus. We have witnessed too many amazing miracles, NOT to believe! However, we also know that God has called us to be responsible stewards of all He has entrusted into our hands. Satan tried to get the Lord Jesus to prove He was Christ by jumping off a high cliff and trusting God not to let Him dash his foot against a stone. But the Lord rebuked satan with the scripture which says we are not to put God to the test.
We trust God, and we have a smoke detector in our home. We trust God, and we own two fire extinguishers. We trust God, and we wear seatbelts when we drive. We trust God, and we obey traffic lights and speed limits, both for our protection and for the protection of others. It wouldn’t be right to say “Hey, we are free, nobody has the right to tell us how fast to drive. And we are Christians, so God will protect us when we run through stop lights!”
I live in New Mexico, on the eastern side, near Texas. The Navajo Nation begins at the northwestern part of our state, near Arizona and Utah. About a month or two ago, the major news outlets were reporting that the Navajo Nation had the highest rate of covid-19 per capita at that time, even higher than New York was, at its worst. And their numbers are still rising, every day.
Here is something that wasn’t reported on the news: the Navajo Nation’s terrible pandemic began with a big Christian prayer meeting. If I am remembering correctly, this prayer meeting took place near the end of March. Ministers and other Christians came to this prayer meeting from several states away. One of the ministers who went to this prayer meeting from another state, became sick with what he thought was a bad cold on the drive to the Navajo Nation. But he continued on to the prayer meeting. As it turned out, that visiting pastor had covid-19.
How do I know this? Because I have a Navajo friend who goes to our local church. Although she and her husband do not live on the reservation, many of their relatives and friends still live there. My Navajo friend called me, asking for prayer for her people. And she told me this story of how it started, with a big prayer meeting.
I don’t understand why the Lord is allowing these things to happen right now, but I trust Him and I know He has a good reason for everything. My husband and I still worship at home. Here’s the amazing thing: since this pandemic began, I have been praying and studying the Bible more than ever. And — I feel God’s presence closer than ever. Praise God! Our God is So Good!
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dettinger47
July 28, 2020
Thank you so much, Linda. I noticed how often you used the word “trust.” It really does sum it for the Christan, doesn’t it!
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heavensreef
July 30, 2020
Our Church was closed initially here in AZ. Then our Gov allowed us to open following strict guidelines. We wear masks, social distance inside and even added an extra service to allow for less people in each service. We have to r.s.v.p. so they keep track of the numbers. There are free standing stations of anti-bacterial soap throughout the Church. So far so good…..not one outbreak, so I pray we all are doing something right. Honestly I needed to go back to see my Church family. I was tired of watching online and missing my CHRISTIAN brothers and sisters. I think each one should do what they are comfortable with……without judgement from their fellow Church goers. Our Pastor gave us that message and said if you want to watch from home that is fine and if you choose to come that is fine too. But that we would give each other the grace that is needed in this difficult situation! It’s all grace David!!
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dettinger47
July 30, 2020
Sounds like your church has its act together!
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heavensreef
July 31, 2020
So far no one is going against anything…….I think as a whole we are pretty compliant!
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bigskybuckeye
July 30, 2020
I appreciate your discussion David. My wife and I, both in our mid-60s, have not attended church since the pandemic arrived. While we take this virus seriously (our daughter has recovered after being hospitalized), we faithfully attend every Sunday online. I look forward to the day when we are sitting in our church on Sunday.
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dettinger47
July 30, 2020
Hey Big Sky, as being only a few years younger than you and your wife, I’m with you step for step, and share in your wishes to be back at church.
And I’m glad your daughter has recovered!!
Thanks for contributing, Big Sky.
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seekingdivineperspective
July 30, 2020
I was doing OK with being at home more, praying, reading the Bible, and writing. I was OK with streaming our church service, too. One Sunday one of our pastors said that people were having a hard time streaming the service – not that they were struggling with the technology, but they were struggling with not being together. When he said, “I want you to know, it’s OK, to be sad…” I started to cry. I didn’t know I was having a hard time until someone gave me permission to be sad – and I discovered I was.
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dettinger47
July 30, 2020
Interesting indeed. I find that these days emotions of all kinds are pretty much at their breaking point. Thank your for another insightful “share.”
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