As God’s Word clarifies, Christians should be part of a church. Choosing the right one is very important and goes much deeper than how good a building looks, music style, impressive Ministries, or even the appearance of the members. These things should not outweigh what the Bible says should be present in a local church. As you search for a new church home, here are some things to look for.
A Church that embraces the completeness of Scripture.
This is where you should begin choosing a church. Do they affirm the Bible? God gives all scripture and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. The man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works (2 Timothy 3: 16-17). Does all parts of the church, from preaching to the nursery, place the focus On God’s Word and not the teachers? A church that starts with scripture in all it does will find the essential things fall into place.
A Church that is about the Glory of God.
The congregation's preaching, teaching, and culture should show a desire for God to be honored. Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the Glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
This church emphasizes God’s greatness, love, mercy, grace, holiness, and sovereignty. This contrasts with man's sinful nature and his unredeemed horrible fate. Additionally, the church doesn’t put the spotlight on itself but keeps it on God.
A Church where the Biblical Gospel is clear.
The church must focus on the loving finished work of Christ on the cross for sinners. For I delivered onto you first of all that I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, that he was buried, and that he rose again on the third day according to the scriptures. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
You will often want to hear a call to the unsaved to turn from their sinful ways and put their faith in Christ. The message of the cross should be a point of emphasis on all the church does.
A Church that relies on Biblical doctrine.
The church must stand firm and base its doctrine on the truth of God’s Word. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine but shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears after their lusts. (2 Timothy 4:3)
The church must base its views concerning the issues of the day, including but not limited to human life, sexuality, marriage, transgenderism, etc., on the teachings of the Bible, not the culturally accepted norms of the times. The church should love all people but cannot endorse actions contrary to God’s Word.
A Church that stresses Christ-like love.
It will not be hard to pick a church if you see intentional care and concern for one another. I give you a new commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have a love for one to another. (John 13:34-35)
Is there a warmth to the people you interact with and a desire to bring you into the life of the church? Is there a desire to know, serve, and care for one another, plus a genuine unforced doing-of-life together among the members?
A Church where members are encouraged to serve.
The church is the “Body of Christ,” and all the members have been blessed with at least one Spiritual Gift.
As every man hath received the gift, even so, minister the same one to another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (I Peter 4:10)
Are the members encouraged to serve the common good of the church? Ask how they help the members find the areas that best suit their gifts while meeting the church's needs.
A Church where Evangelism is emphasized.
Ideally, when all the other parameters are being met in a church, then active evangelism will result. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, all power is given unto me in heaven and earth. Therefore, Go ye, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:18-19)
Are the members being equipped to live Godly lives and encouraged to speak about Christ to others? As part of the church mission, does it support missionaries to take the Gospel to people worldwide?
We hope this talk was helpful to you. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at the link below.
