Knowing God vs. Going to Church: What is the Difference?
- Mar 10
- 4 min read
Have you ever walked into a place and realized that what was happening there wasn't just "normal"? For those who have been part of the journey at Pioneer Church, there is a growing sense that God is doing something unique and special. Whether you are building your life, battling for your family, or preparing for a spiritual shift, the call remains the same: we must be ready for what God wants to give.
In a recent powerful session, Pastor Anthony Rick from Coastline Church joined us to bridge the gap between two powerful themes: the "Build and Battle" series from Nehemiah and the concept of being "Revival Ready." Drawing from the book of Titus and the book of Acts, he shared profound insights on how we move from simply attending church to truly knowing God.
Grace: Our Daily Teacher
Often, we view grace as a one-time safety net—something that catches us when we fall. However, Titus 2:11-12 offers a different perspective: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lust, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age."
Grace is not just a redeemer; grace is a teacher. We are no longer under the strict, religious taskmaster of the law. Instead, the grace of God instructs us daily. It empowers us to say "no" to the things that pull us away from our purpose and "yes" to a life of righteousness. This isn't about our own works or merit, but according to His mercy and the renewing of the Holy Spirit.
The Tension Between Simple and Easy
In the Christian walk, we often encounter a confusing paradox. The Gospel is simple, but living it out is rarely easy.
Think about the concepts of "building" and "battling." On a title screen or in a sermon, these words feel inspiring. We receive the instructions and feel equipped. But when the "rubber meets the road"—when life starts happening, when tragedy strikes, or when the enemy attacks—applying those simple instructions becomes a monumental task.
The pure, undiluted Gospel of Jesus Christ is the power to live a godly life, but to walk it out, we must lean into the Holy Spirit. We cannot do it by our own might or power. As John 15:5 reminds us, "Apart from me, you can do nothing."
Objective Victory vs. Subjective Walk
There is a vital distinction we must understand to be "Revival Ready":
Objectively: God has already done it. Christ has complete victory over death, hell, and the grave. He has stripped the enemy of authority.
Subjectively: We must walk it out. It is on us to mature, to let our roots go deep, and to be faithful witnesses in our daily lives.
Do You Want to Go to Church, or Do You Want to Know God?
It is easy to fall into the trap of religious routine. We gather because that’s what Christians do—and gathering is essential. We need the family of God for fellowship, encouragement, and strength. But the ultimate goal of the church isn't just to "show up" at a building; it is to know God.
Pastor Anthony challenged us to seek the "fellowship of His suffering" and to move beyond surface-level participation. This requires a shift in how we perceive the presence of God.
Omnipresence vs. Manifest Presence
God is omnipresent, meaning He is everywhere at all times. This is a theological fact. However, there is a difference between His omnipresence and His manifest presence.
Manifest presence is when the God who is everywhere decides to be somewhere. He comes where He is wanted. This requires intentionality on our part. We see this in the life of the disciples when Jesus told them to tarry in Jerusalem and wait for the outpouring of the Spirit. They had to create space and show desire for Him to show up in a tangible way.
The Secret Behind the "Suddenly"
We all love the "suddenly" moments in Scripture. We love when the breakthrough happens in an instant, when the chains fall off, or when the Spirit falls. But we often overlook the journey that leads to the moment.
In Acts chapter 2, the Holy Spirit came suddenly like a rushing mighty wind. But that "suddenly" was preceded by a 10-day prayer meeting. It takes time for something to happen suddenly. It takes a journey of contending, interceding, and holding onto hope to reach the point of breakthrough.
If you are in a season of waiting, don't be discouraged. You aren't just waiting; you are becoming "Revival Ready." You are building the roots that will support the rain when it finally comes.
Principle vs. Preference
As the church grows and different expressions of worship emerge, it is crucial to distinguish between principle and preference.
Principles are the bedrock truths—the foundation, the doctrine, and the Word of God. These are unshakeable and non-negotiable.
Preferences are the expressions of those truths—how we worship, the style of our services, and the unique "flavor" of a local church.
Preferences should be formed by principles, but principles should never be formed by preferences. When we keep the foundation of the Word as our primary focus, we allow for a beautiful diversity in the body of Christ without compromising the truth of the Gospel.
Key Takeaways for Your Week
Let Grace Teach You: Don't just view grace as forgiveness; let it be your daily instructor in how to live righteously.
Lean on the Spirit: Acknowledge that while the Gospel is simple, you need the Holy Spirit's power to handle the "not easy" parts of life.
Invite the Manifest Presence: Don't just settle for knowing God is "around." Invite Him to be "here" through intentional prayer and worship.
Respect the Process: If you are waiting for a "suddenly" moment, stay faithful in the secret place. The preparation is part of the miracle.
Conclusion
Building and battling isn't just a series title; it's a lifestyle. Whether you are working on the "micro" level of your own heart or the "macro" level of the global church, the goal is to be a preserving salt and an illuminating light. God is looking for a people who are zealous for good works and hungry for His presence.
Are you ready for what God is about to do?
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