God wanted a group of people who would DO SOMETHING. He did not want all believers to just be saved. He did not want people to sit at home and be content with things the way they are. He wanted His people to make a difference, to be the thing that changes the world. So, God created the local church.
Here is what it looked like in part: “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.” Acts 1:14
They were together in one place with one mind. They were focused on one thing: following Jesus and doing His will. Together is the key thing; not alone, without support and help. Together with one mind doing what one alone could not.
When they did act alone it was with the support and encouragement of the people in their local church.
It wasn’t just fellowship, it wasn’t just conversation, although that is part of it. It was being together and doing something. With one mind. Focused on accomplishing what Jesus wanted. It was a big idea. In fact, it is God’s big idea!
That is why there is a local church.