[Pyro7480]

Why does grandiose, beautiful, architecture have anything to do with real worship?

Good question. A worship space, whether intentionally or unintentionally, tells something about the builders' belief. If the builders truly value what they believe, then they will build accordingly.

There are exceptions to this, of course, in situations where the faithful are under persecution, but otherwise, a bare structure and/or ugly structure built for worship will convey the message, whether intentional or not, that the believers do not value what they believe.

[wmfights]

...a bare structure and/or ugly structure built for worship will convey the message, whether intentional or not, that the believers do not value what they believe.

Obviously only GOD knows the quality of our worship does it really matter what others think? The example Jesus gave us of the guy who came to worship and made a big show of it and the poor widow comes to mind.

This isn't limited to any particular church, but it seems the more expansive the church the more the statement being made is "look at us". There are pastors who have held services in fields before men have gone into battle I suspect those in attendance were pretty sincere in their worship.

[caww]

a bare structure and/or ugly structure built for worship will convey the message, whether intentional or not, that the believers do not value what they believe.

God does not judge by external appearances....Gal:2:6 Man looks at the outward appearance. 1Sam 16:6 Stop judging by mere appearances. Jn 7:24

"He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire Him." Is 53:2

Christ had none of the appearance's nor trappings of royalty....nor is it necessary His church buildings require as such....especially at the expense of those in need from within the body.

[1000 silverlings]

a bare structure and/or ugly structure built for worship will convey the message, whether intentional or not, that the believers do not value what they believe

unbelievable, yet God says that he prefers structures not made with human hands. He doesn't see the old beat up, diseased or ugly body. In fact Christ Himself was, per the bible, not much to look at

[1000 silverlings]

Where 2 or 3 are gathered together in my name there I am..... God could care less where you gather

[Hegewisch Dupa]

For the ‘Don’t matter where ya gather’ crowd - ask if they meet in outhouses.

[metmom]

A worship space, whether intentionally or unintentionally, tells something about the builders' belief. If the builders truly value what they believe, then they will build accordingly.

If they can afford it.

Fledgling churches are not known for having sizable bank accounts. They make do with what they have and pray that God would provide better.

Don't forget that Jesus had no where to lay His head.

And what's better? To build a edifice or to feed the hungry and clothe the poor.