Leader Guide
One of the most common statements in today's culture is: “I don't need to be in church to be a Christian.” And while salvation does not come from church attendance, scripture shows us that faith was never meant to be lived in isolation. Some people stay away from church because of past hurt or the convenience of doing church at home. Others attend but only treat it as a check box on their spiritual to-do list. Neither approach reflects the purpose God intended for His Church. The Church isn't a building or a service—it's a gathering of people who belong to God. It’s where we grow together, serve one another, and stir up faith. Being planted in God’s Church isn't about earning salvation—it's about becoming who God called us to be.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. What’s your go-to spot when you walk into church—and why? What's your favorite part of Sunday morning?
2. Read Acts 2:42-47. Have you ever wrestled with the idea of “I don’t need to be in church to be a Christian?” What were the early believers devoted to? What does that kind of commitment look like today?
Leader’s Note: Point out to your group that devotion means consistent action—not occasional attendance. The early church modeled generosity, prayer, teaching, and shared life.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Hebrews 10:24-25. How do these verses in Corinthians clearly show us that we are all needed? Why do you think Scripture emphasizes “not neglecting to meet together?” What happens when we regularly gather as a community?
Leader’s Note: God made the physical body to need each part to function properly, and the church is the same. We need each part of the body to function properly as the church. We all have different gifts and need each other to come together to do His work. The church is where we find encouragement, correction, and reminders of God’s promises—especially when life gets hard or faith feels dry.
4. Read Matthew 16:18. What does this verse tell us about the importance Jesus Places on church? How can our attitudes and behaviors reflect the value Jesus places on His church?
Leader’s Note: This verse is the first time Jesus ever uses the word church. He claims personal ownership, “My church”, and stakes His reputation on its endurance. If he values it this highly, what shifts should we make in our words, time, service, and giving?
5. Reflect on this: Are spiritual practices (weekly services, quiet time, small group, serving) devotions in your life—or options you fit in when convenient? What helps you stay consistent when life gets busy? Who in your life needs your encouragement right now? What could it look like to come to a service already “prayed up” ready to give rather than only receive?
Leader’s Note: Just like physical fitness, your spiritual strength grows where you put in the reps. Cardio won’t build abs; church attendance won't grow serving muscles. What spiritual muscles do we need to strengthen?
6. Action Steps: In what ways might God be inviting you to deepen your devotion to Him and His church? Might it look like stepping into a place of serving, more consistent to Life Group, or arriving each week intent on blessing others rather than focusing on yourself?