The Ministry of Presence
The proliferation of digital ministry has increased in recent years. In many cases, this has been a sincere blessing, particularly for the sick and shut-in, those traveling or those unable to attend in person. There’s no doubt that the ability to connect with church via the internet has provided spiritual nourishment and encouragement. Yet, while technology can be a wonderful tool, it was never meant to replace the irreplaceable—being physically present in God’s house with God’s people.
When possible, in-person worship offers blessings and benefits that no screen or television monitor can fully provide. Below are some of these benefits.
Shared Presence Brings a Deeper Sense of God’s Presence. There’s something spiritually powerful about God’s people gathering in one place to worship. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them,” Matthew 18:20 (KJV). While God is omnipresent, His manifested presence is often experienced in unique ways when believers are physically together.
We Are Encouraged by Seeing and Being Seen. In-person attendance allows your very presence to be an encouragement to others. A smile, a handshake or a word of blessing can lift someone’s spirit in ways that digital interaction simply cannot replicate.
Worship Is Meant to Be Participatory, Not Passive. When watching online, it’s easy to become a consumer of worship rather than a participant. In person, you stand with others, lift your voice in song, respond to the sermon and join in corporate prayer.
Relationships Are Built Face-to-Face. Christianity is a community faith. Genuine relationships are nurtured in shared spaces—over conversation at potluck, during small group discussions or while serving together. Online worship seldom allows for that kind of personal connection.
Accountability and Spiritual Growth Thrive in Community. When we physically attend church, we are more likely to be known, prayed for and lovingly challenged. It’s easier to drift spiritually when no one knows if you’re present or not.
Corporate Worship Models Heaven. Scripture’s picture of heaven is of a multitude gathered before the throne, worshiping together! In-person worship is a foretaste of that eternal reality, preparing our hearts for the day when we will gather in God’s presence.
Livestream worship is a gift for when in-person attendance is not possible, but it should be the exception, not the norm. When we attend church physically, we not only receive encouragement, but we are the encouragement someone else might need. Hence, when you can, come. Your seat in the sanctuary matters—not just for you, but for the body of Christ.
By Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min.
President
