Pastor David Bardowell
January 14, 2024

Why is the Local Church Important?

1) The Local Church is where the Body of Christ gathers to

God. Purpose 1: Worship.

Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
(Colossians 3:16, CSB)

2) The Local Church is where the Body of Christ gathers to

one another. Purpose 2: Fellowship.

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 approaching. (Hebrews 10:24–25, NIV)

3) The Local Church is where the Body of Christ gathers to

together. Purpose 3: Discipleship.

“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28, NIV)

4) The Local Church is where the Body of Christ gathers to

one another. Purpose 4: Ministry.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.
(Galatians 6:10, CSB)

5) The Local Church is where the Body of Christ gathers to

the community. Purpose 5: Missions.

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:19–20, CSB)

Pastor David Bardowell, Senior Pastor
Pastor David@TheGateOC.com