Can Online Church Really Help You Grow Spiritually? Find Out Here

Dr. Layne McDonald
4 days ago
4 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Maybe you've wondered if clicking "join" on a virtual worship service really counts. Perhaps you've questioned whether spiritual growth can happen through a screen. Or maybe life circumstances have made online church your only option right now, and you're wondering if you're missing out on something essential.

Friend, you're not alone in asking these questions, and you've come to the right place.

Here at Boundless Online Church, Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald, our online pastor and leader, reminds us often: God meets you where you are. Whether that's in a sanctuary pew or on your couch at 2 AM, His presence knows no boundaries.

Let's explore what Scripture teaches about spiritual growth, what research reveals about online faith communities, and how you can thrive spiritually, no matter where you worship.

What Does the Bible Say About Spiritual Growth?

Before we dive into the "online" part, let's ground ourselves in what God's Word says about how we grow in faith.

Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another."

Notice what this verse emphasizes: encouragement, connection, and spurring one another on. It's about the heart of fellowship, not necessarily the building where it happens.

Collage of Church Life at First Assembly Memphis

2 Peter 3:18 tells us to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." This growth happens through:

Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Scripture study (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Fellowship with believers (Acts 2:42)
Worship (Psalm 100:2)
Service to others (Galatians 5:13)

Here's the beautiful truth: Every single one of these can happen online.

What Research Tells Us About Online Church

Recent studies have explored whether online church truly supports spiritual development, and the findings are encouraging.

The Benefits Are Real

Research shows that online faith communities offer several unique advantages:

The Complete Picture

A 2025 study did note that participants reported slightly lower feelings of transcendence during online-only worship compared to in-person services. However, and this is key, overall well-being scores were comparable between both formats.

What does this mean for you? Online church isn't meant to replace every spiritual experience, but it absolutely can support meaningful, lasting spiritual growth, especially when you engage intentionally.

5 Ways to Maximize Your Spiritual Growth Online

Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald often says, "It's not about where you sit, it's about how you show up." Here are five practical ways to grow spiritually through online church:

1. Create a Sacred Space

Designate a spot in your home for worship and study. It doesn't need to be fancy, a comfortable chair, your Bible, and a quiet corner work beautifully. When you return to the same space regularly, your mind begins to associate it with meeting God.

2. Participate Actively

Don't just watch, engage! Type in the chat. Respond to prompts. Sing along (yes, even if no one can hear you). Raise your hands in worship. Active participation transforms passive viewing into genuine worship.

3. Join a Group

Spiritual growth multiplies in community. At Boundless Online Church, we offer various groups where you can connect with others who share your interests, struggles, and faith journey. This is where lifelong friendships: and accountability: are born.

4. Establish a Routine

Consistency matters more than intensity. Set regular times for:

Morning devotions
Midweek Bible study
Weekend worship services
Prayer throughout your day

The Boundless platform makes this easy with 24/7 access to resources, live chats, and pastoral support.

5. Take Action on What You Learn

James 1:22 reminds us to "be doers of the word, and not hearers only." After every service or study, ask yourself: What's one thing I can apply this week? Then do it.

Wisdom Wednesday Reflection: Bible Study Prompts

Take some time today to reflect on these questions with an open heart:

Read Acts 2:42-47

What characterized the early church's fellowship?
How can these same elements exist in an online community?
What's one way you can "devote yourself" to fellowship this week?

Read Colossians 3:16

How does God's Word "dwell in you richly" through online resources?
In what ways can you teach and admonish others through digital connections?
How might online access actually increase your exposure to Scripture?

Read Matthew 18:20

What does Jesus promise about gathering in His name?
Does physical proximity limit His presence?
How have you experienced God's presence in online worship?

Your Biblical Affirmation

Speak this truth over yourself today:

"I am growing in grace and knowledge every day. God meets me where I am, and His presence fills my home, my heart, and my screen. I am never forgotten, never alone, and deeply loved by my Heavenly Father. My faith knows no boundaries because my God knows no limits."

Write it down. Post it somewhere you'll see it. Let it reshape how you view your spiritual journey.

You Belong Here

Maybe you don't have a home church. Maybe health issues keep you homebound. Maybe you work nights or live in a region without a faith community nearby. Maybe you're just starting to explore faith and traditional church feels intimidating.

Whatever your situation: you belong here.

At Boundless Online Church, Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald and our entire team are committed to walking alongside you. We offer:

Daily blogs and podcasts for spiritual nourishment
Groups for connection and accountability
Live chat and video for real-time support
24/7 ministry because God doesn't keep office hours
Prayer and praise boards to share your journey
Volunteer and leadership training to help you grow and serve

We also offer a ZIP/country search to help you find a physical church near you if that's what you're seeking: complete with a VIP handoff to make your visit welcoming.

Membership is always free and completely opt-in. We'll never ask you for money, spam you, or pressure you. Just grace, community, and the love of Jesus.