What to Consider When Choosing a Church

Although the Bible tells us that we are the church, it also emphasizes the need for gathering together of believers. The meeting of brethren will take place in a structure. If you just need somewhere to attend a service, there are numerous options. If you are after worshipping God and growing in Him, you need to be thorough. Below are tips to help you choose the best church.

Is the church centered on the good news of Christ? You can tell what matters to a church by checking what they emphasize from the pulpit, what is discussed by its members and what displayed on the walls. Some churches are focused on good music while others support Christian school or a home-schooling. Some people may choose a church because it has great programs for kids or it has no programs for youth and children. Some go to a church because of its famous preacher or because people like celebrities attend it. Still, others choose a church just because of its political activism. However, some churches focus their heritage on faith. While all these reasons are not bad, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:2 that we are determined to know but Christ and Him crucified. You should thus consider a church that helps you to know Christ and grow in Him.

Does a church stand firm on the right doctrine? You can tell what a church believes in by checking its confession of faith or doctrinal statement but it is also good to carefully listen to what is taught or preached to tell if it stands firm on biblical heritage. Several churches have wandered from their biblical heritage. The most vital doctrine on which a church ought to be clear is that of salvation. It should also affirm that the holy word is inerrant and inspired by God. In addition, a church should affirm the adequacy of Scripture in equipping us for all good work for godliness and life.

Do preachers faithfully preach the bible week after week? A faithful preacher does not only preach the Word of God but His sole authority. Also, he preaches the entire counsel of God including the most difficult portions concerning God’s wrath against sin. He does not only encourage saints but also rebukes and reproves sin. All faithful preaching is grounded on the Scriptures. Paul says how eager he was to go to Rome in order to preach the good news to believers. When you go to a church for a visitation, ask yourself whether their preaching is faithful to God’s word and if it is a place where your family can be fed the Word week after week.

Are you encouraged in worship? All churches must encourage believers to worship God. We exist to worship God, that is, God created us so we can worship Him. Worship is not about singing songs or siting through a service but its core is a personal communion with God. A good church should help you to connect this way with God throughout your entire life.

Study: My Understanding of

Case Study: My Experience With