Finding a Good Church

By GodLife on January 26, 2011 Part 19 from the series New Believer's Guide What Makes a Good Church? Weve talked a lot about church being like a familyso how do you find the right one? Not every church is perfectin fact, no church is perfect just like no family is perfect. You may be in a part of the world where there are no organized local churches; if that is the case pray that God will lead you to some other Christians that you can have fellowship with. If there are churches near where you live, you should pray and ask God for His wisdom to help you find the one He wants you to go to. Here are some questions to help guide you in your search for a church that is good for you.

Jesus is the Only Way

Does it believe that faith in Jesus is the only way to be saved from your sins and have a relationship with God? It is by grace you have been saved through faith. And this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, that no one should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). Some churches teach extra things you have to do to be savedthat faith in Jesus alone isnt quite enough. This is a major red flag.

The Bible is 100% True

Does it believe that the Bible is 100% true and try to live it out on a daily basis? Jesus said, Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it (Luke 11:28). Some churches only believe certain parts of the Bible or have added extra books to it. This is not good. You want a church that respects the Bible as Gods word and as the guidebook for life.

Tell the World about Jesus

Does it seek to tell the world around them about Jesus and be an example of Gods kingdom on earth? Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you (Matthew 28:18-20). It can be easy to get inwardly focused in a church and lose the driving mission of telling others about Jesus salvation. But that is

the purpose of every church. So, find one that is actively obeying Jesus command to preach the gospel and love others.

"But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything." Ephesians 5:24 "Now we command you, brethren in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life not according to the tradition which you received from us." 2 Thessalonians 3:6

What Really Matters

If you can find a church with these things, praise God! Each church will have a different personality, just as families do. Maybe they sing different songs than youre used to or have different ways to reach out to their community. But what really matters is the core beliefs about Jesus and commitment to follow Him. Do you have a church that matches these qualities? If so, thank God and ask Him how you can serve there. But if not, take a moment to ask God to lead you to one. He has promised to provide for you, so you can trust Him to answer your request.

"Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:19