How to Go to Church the Right Way

A Practical Guide for Growing Christians

Going to church isn’t just a religious habit, it’s a meaningful way to stay close to God, grow in your faith, and be part of something bigger than yourself. The local church is the tool God uses today to teach truth, spread the gospel, and build up believers (Matthew 16:18). If you’re serious about following Jesus, going to church the right way matters.

Here’s how to do it well:

1. Go Regularly

Make church a non-negotiable part of your week. Set your schedule around church, not the other way around. The Bible tells us not to skip church meetings (Hebrews 10:25). Being around other believers helps you grow and stay encouraged (Malachi 3:16).

Plan to attend:

• Sunday morning service

• Sunday evening service

• Midweek (usually Wednesday) service

Don’t wait for the perfect week to start attending — just show up. If Jesus made it a priority (Luke 2:46), so should we (Matthew 6:33).

2. Go Early

Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the service starts. This gives you time to greet others, settle in, and get your heart ready. Being on time shows you value God and respect others.

Stick around a few minutes after the service too. These moments are great for building friendships, asking questions, and connecting with your church family.

3. Go Prepared

Bring your Bible, something to write with, and a notebook. Expect God to speak to you through the teaching. Take notes so you can reflect later.

4. Go Respectfully

Treat the church building and the people in it with care.

• Don’t litter or damage church property.

• Avoid distractions like whispering, wandering, or checking your phone during the service.

• Dress modestly and neatly. You don’t need to wear a suit, but aim for clothing that shows you’re coming to honor God, not just hanging out.

The church is more than a building, it’s the house of God and a place where truth is taught (1 Timothy 3:15).

5. Go Joyfully

You should want to be in church. David said, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord” (Psalm 122:1). Make going to church something you look forward to, not just something to check off a list.

How to Behave in Church

Once you’re in the service, here are some tips to help you get the most out of it:

1. Be Considerate with Seating

• Sit closer to the front when you can because it encourages the preacher and avoids distracting others.

• Sit in the middle of rows or near others when possible.

• Let guests or those with small children sit in more accessible areas.

2. Avoid Distractions

• Silence your phone and keep it tucked away.

• Unless it’s urgent, stay in your seat for the entire service.

• Don’t talk or whisper to those around you.

• Focus on what’s being taught. God has something for you every time.

3. Fully Participate

Worship is not a spectator activity. Join in:

• Sing the songs with the congregation.

• Follow along in your Bible.

• Say “Amen” or “That’s right” if something resonates (if you’re a man — see below).

• Pay attention and engage your heart and mind.

4. Honor God’s Order

For Men: It's okay to verbally agree with the preacher during the message with short phrases like:

• “Amen!”

• “Right!”

• “Yes!”

• “Preach it!”

(1 Corinthians 14:16 encourages active verbal agreement.)

For Women: During the teaching time, women are instructed by Scripture to remain silent and reverent (1 Corinthians 14:34; 1 Timothy 2:11). This doesn’t mean women are less valuable, it simply honors God’s design for order in church gatherings.

Women are still encouraged to sing during the worship, listen attentively, discipline the children (if any) and take notes.

5. Take Notes

Good listeners become great learners. Write down:

• The main points of the sermon

• Bible references to study later

• Memorable quotes or insights

This helps you remember what you’ve heard and apply it during the week.

Final Thoughts

Church is a place to grow, to give, to serve, and to worship. When you go to church the right way regularly, joyfully, reverently, and with others in mind. Your faith will deepen and your impact will grow.

Whether you’re just getting started or have been attending for years, every church service is a new opportunity to hear from God and grow in grace.

Psalm 84:10 – “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand…”