I would answer along two lines: as far as you need, and not too far. With regard to both lines, I plead with you: put your soul first. People often make decisions about jobs, studies, relationships, and the like, with Christ’s church an afterthought – the one institution which he established on earth for the propagation and preservation of his kingdom of grace, to be the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
Remember our Lord’s command and assurance, ‘seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things [food, drink, clothing, and other such concerns] shall be added to you’ (Matthew 6:33). Christ’s commission in Acts 28 assumes participation in and care from a particular church, played out in the labours of the apostles. The church is the greenhouse in which young spiritual plants grow, the garden where mature trees bear sweet fruit. Make a holy, healthy, happy church your priority, determined to benefit from and invest in its holiness, healthiness, and happiness.
— This article continues for ET members
