Should we construct a new church?

I. Introduction

When considering the question of constructing a new church, one must weigh the biblical principles and historical precedents that guide worship and fellowship. Although the church is ultimately made up of people, there is clear evidence in Scripture that God has often directed His people to establish physical spaces dedicated to His glory. These spaces serve as places of instruction, mutual edification, and outreach to the surrounding community.

II. The Church as the People of God

Scripture consistently teaches that believers themselves form the true temple of God. As it is written: “Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). These words emphasize that the central identity of the Church is spiritual, embodied in those who confess Christ. Yet, the same Scriptures do not deny the importance of assembling together within a dedicated space.

III. Biblical Precedents for Constructing Places of Worship

1. The Tabernacle (Exodus 25:8): God instructed the Israelites to “make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them”. The Tabernacle was a movable structure, but it was specifically designed as a holy meeting place.

2. Solomon’s Temple (1 Kings 5–8): King Solomon built a permanent Temple as a place for worship and sacrifice. Although the Church today serves under a new covenant, the careful process and reverent attitude displayed during the temple’s construction illustrate God’s concern for orderly and purposeful worship.

3. Post-Exilic Temple (Ezra 1–6): After the Babylonian exile, the returning exiles prioritized the rebuilding of the Temple. Despite opposition and limited resources, they persisted, recognizing the value of a place where God’s people could gather and worship.

IV. The Purpose of the Church Building

1. Gathering for Worship (Hebrews 10:24–25): “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit…”. A physical building can facilitate regular gatherings, encourage corporate prayer, and foster communal worship.

2. Instruction and Edification (Acts 2:42): Early believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship”. Dedicated spaces enable ministers and teachers to provide in-depth scriptural teaching.

3. Outreach and Community Impact (Matthew 28:19–20): Jesus’ Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” is often fulfilled, in part, through the establishment of physical places where the gospel can be proclaimed systematically.

V. Factors to Consider Before Constructing a New Church

1. Spiritual Necessity: Where local congregations lack adequate space for worship, discipleship programs, youth ministries, or community outreach, a compelling case often emerges for building a new facility. A deeper look at local demographics, attendance growth, and specific ministry needs can help determine if new construction fulfills a genuine spiritual requirement.

2. Stewardship and Counting the Cost (Luke 14:28):

“Which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost?”. Constructing a new building requires financial resources, volunteer labor, and a commitment to ongoing maintenance. Before proceeding, congregations typically assess their capacity for sustaining a new facility without detracting from other key ministries.

3. Unity and Fellowship (Ephesians 4:3–4):

Maintaining “the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” is paramount. If a new building strengthens that unity, fosters communal relationships, and reduces overcrowding, it can be a blessing. However, divisions that might arise over building projects—such as design preferences or financial concerns—should be addressed prayerfully and transparently.

4. Community Outreach and Evangelism:

A new church building can serve as a visible expression of God’s presence in the neighborhood. Facilities designed with outreach in mind often include areas for children’s programs, food pantries, or counseling offices, helping connect the congregation with local needs. Churches historically have functioned not just to gather believers but also to meet physical and spiritual needs in their communities.

VI. Potential Dangers and Pitfalls

1. Misplaced Priorities: If a new building becomes a source of boasting or competition, there is danger that the focus shifts away from glorifying God. The Lord reminds His people through the prophets that obedience is more important than the external trappings of religion (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22).

2. Financial Strain: Overextending congregational resources can limit the ability to fund missions, charitable works, or discipleship efforts. Wise planning and prayerful deliberation help guard against these stresses.

VII. Meeting in Homes vs. Dedicated Spaces

In the early Church, believers often met in homes (Acts 2:46). This pattern underscores that the spiritual bond among believers transcends buildings. Yet, archaeology has uncovered evidence of early Christian meeting places that were adapted to accommodate growing congregations, suggesting even the earliest believers sought practical solutions for communal worship. Modern congregations can similarly employ multiple meeting strategies—some share existing buildings, while others lease facilities—until constructing a permanent building aligns with clear spiritual goals and responsible stewardship.

VIII. Conclusion

Whether to construct a new church involves prayerful discernment, guided by Scripture and the Spirit of unity. While believers themselves form the Church, God has historically designated places of worship that facilitate teaching, community, and mission. By evaluating the needs of the congregation, considering financial stewardship, and attending to the welfare of the surrounding community, one can determine whether building a new facility aligns with the biblical directives and serves as a faithful expression of the Church’s mission to glorify God and proclaim salvation in Christ.

In every generation, the goal remains the same—magnifying the name of the Lord and encouraging others to follow Him. Where a new building supports that mission responsibly and lovingly, the biblical record affirms its value for the worship and work of God’s people.