Is it really possible for Christians to maintain their love for God even though they have decided to abandon their church?

This was one of the questions posed to Pastor John Piper, founder of the organisation called Desiring God during Wednesday's episode of his "Ask John Piper" audio series.

Piper believes that people have it wrong when they think that they are only leaving the church and not Jesus Christ. "If you do that, you are walking away from Jesus," he said.

Piper then explained that Jesus founded the Church and entrusted His Apostles to protect its foundation. That is why it does not make sense for people to think that they can still uphold God even as they disassociate themselves from His Church.

Piper quoted the Bible verse John 14:23 to prove his point: "And then He built it with prophets and teachers and pastors and ordained that there be a structure of local churches in the body of Christ called the Church. If anyone loves me, he will keep my word."

"To say, 'I love Jesus, but I don't submit to His word' is a lie," he said. The pastor added that people choosing Jesus over the Church is pretty similar to a choice between one's opinion over the Bible's teachings.

He also warned that there are several "young evangelicals" now who are trying to make substitutes for "organised church." Piper described this new breed of pastors as "cool, hip, and leftward-leaning." He believes that they should tread carefully in sharing the Gospel.

He advised them not to shake up the teachings of the Bible. "If you are trying to create church, just create it biblically. Start a biblical church. And that means listening to your Master and His word and His Apostles," he said.