When searching for your next local church, it helps to bear in mind that, similar to the people in them, no one church is best. Nonetheless, there are lots of concerns that must be taken into consideration when deciding on a church. Some folks live close to a few churches, and their choices will certainly be limited, but also for others there are a lot more options. Be sure to pray concerning the churches you’re taking into consideration, to be sure you’re adhering to the God’s leading as you look. Start your search online to view all your alternatives. Be especially sure to read a church’s statement of doctrine to know their position on crucial issues. If you examine this early research and a church appears to be a solid choice you should visit the church and take part in their small groups, Sunday school and other extracurricular services for at least several weeks while prayerfully taking into consideration whether to join. Listed here are some vital things you need to think about in your search to locate a church.
What do they preach and teach?
The Holy Bible is clear that we must only pay attention to those that preach the true gospel of Jesus Christ. If another message is being given instead, then it is not a scripture-based church and you should move on. The church should be proclaiming God’s truth as provided to us through His Word. The truth of the gospel is that we are sinners, we need a savior and that Jesus is the only way of redemption. The gospel must be spoken in context and be used throughout the pastors’ messages. Besides the salvation message, churches differ in areas such as the Trinity, the authority of the Bible, eternal security, free will, God’s sovereignty, election of the saints and beliefs about the end times. These are top priority differentiators, so we need to pick a church based upon the beliefs we have about these and also other church doctrines.
If you do not know where you stand on these issues, you owe it to yourself to find a church that instructs that the Bible is God’s inspired Word and relies on God’s sovereignty. God’s sovereignty is based on the fact that He is lovingly and righteously in command of all history and operating in His children’s lives to ensure His plan and purpose is carried out completely and also in His flawless ways.
Is the church community-focused?
The early church of Acts chapter two “devoted themselves to the apostles teaching as well as to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread as well as to prayer. Everybody was filled with wonder, and the apostles performed signs and wonders and miracles. All the followers were together as well as had everything in common. Selling their worldly possessions, they donated to any anyone as they had needs. Every day they gathered together in the temple courts. They held holy communion along with happy and also sincere hearts, praising God and delighting in the favor of all the community. And also the God added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Fellowship definitely must regard God’s statutes for the church such as communion (the Lord’s Dinner) and also followers’ baptism. This is the reason why Family Worship Center (FWC), a friendly church in Virginia (the most northerly part of the South) is so focused on reaching out to their local community. This Springfield church Facebook page showcases their community outreaches and emphasis on helping families.
Watch this video to learn about FWC’s Hallelujah Nite.
Also, the church you pick needs to be welcoming to ever race, color and creed. We must invite sinners yet speak the truth to them concerning their transgressions. Individuals of the church should be dedicated to urging one another to increase in Christ. In some cases it’s tough to discover a church where people do not simply show up on Sunday, but instead truly involve themselves in each others’ lives. Part of this investment is seen in how active as well as important Sunday school, community teams, small groups, youth groups, as well as other support groups within the church. If you are a parent it is even more vital that your youngsters take part in a delightful as well as meaningful group during the foundational years of their lives. Several children do not have Christian acquaintances at their schools but desperately require this peer influence in their lives. While married folks are often plentiful in churches, it could be harder for people in other stages of life link up in some churches. If you are single, separated, widowed, or have been mistreated in relationships, seek out churches that consist of others that share the same stage as you.
What is the style of music?
The older hymns are rich with the Word and also important doctrines that builds our faith, and there are certainly lots of more recent songs that are uplifting and encouraging. The objective of music in a church must be to lead the people closer to the God in praise as well as love. Many are used to one genre of music as opposed to other types purely out of habit or childhood exposure. While musical styles must be taken into consideration, it should not be the only factor in finding a great church.
Is the church centered on reaching outside the church with the gospel?
Christ compelled us to take the scripture throughout the whole earth (Matthew 28:19 -20). The church must be leading its congregants in this, preparing them to discuss the scripture with their neighbors and friends as well as possibly leading local or international missions. We must be taking care of the less fortunate, the widowed, as well as every person whom we can assist (James 1:22 -27, 1 Peter 4:10). Some churches don’t have the resources to reach out to the community with more formal groups, yet the people in the church need to be volunteering in the community and serving their neighbors. Be sure to look for somewhere to serve within your church. Check out the Springfield church Instagram page to see how Family Worship Center shares the gospel with their local community. They really care about those who are looking for an answer to life’s issues and want peace in their lives.
With a little effort everyone can find a church that suits their preferences and what God wants for them. Just stick to what is important, and you will surely plant yourself in the right place.
