After Jesus’ trial, he was scourged with a many-lashed whip containing imbedded pieces of bone and metal. He was mocked, spit, and struck. He has a crown of thorns placed on his head. And then he had spikes driven into his hands and feet, and he hung on a cross. Why? Why did he endure all of that? For me. For you. To save people from their sins. But there is more:
“…Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her….” – Ephesians 5:25
He endured the cross because he loved the church. If he loved the church like that, shouldn’t his followers love his church too?
Some people claim they want to follow Christ but want nothing to do with his church. How can you follow Christ while rejecting that which he loves? Some have been hurt by the church; the church isn’t perfect. Sadly true. But Jesus loved it anyway and gave his life for it. If we follow him, we must love the church too and give of ourselves for his church.
Some people are part of a local church, but just go through the motions. They attend services, but do they ever show love for the church? Do they love the people – building relationships with them and ministering to them? Do they support the ministries of the church with their time and money and spiritual gifts? Do they give of themselves for Christ’s church as Jesus did?
Jesus loved his church. Shouldn’t we?
Brian J. Mikul 
This is a beautiful post. I understand what you’re saying. I do have a home church, but I’m one of many who suffer from a love-hate relationship with it. I personally believe that the church is at root compose of individuals. Jesus gave up his life for these individuals – for those who truly believe in him. Many in the church are not true Christians who minister with their lives. I believe that this – setting a Christian example in the way we handle challenges and tackle moral situations – is far more important than dragging ourselves to Sunday school. Some would consider that part of the example, I know. But if Jesus proved anything, it’s that kindness comes before piousness. I just can’t bring myself to believe that church should ever be “a necessary evil.” If it’s not helping me grow, I’m afraid I don’t go.