Quick Summary
- Finding the right church is crucial for spiritual growth
- Prioritize biblical teaching, gospel centrality, and healthy community
- Visit multiple churches before deciding
- Look for a church that challenges and encourages you
- Commit once you find the right fit
Non-Negotiable Essentials
1. Biblical Teaching
Preaching must be faithful to Scripture, not personal opinion or culture.
2. Gospel-Centered
The cross and resurrection are central, not secondary.
3. Sound Doctrine
Core beliefs align with historic Christian orthodoxy.
4. Church Discipline
Loving accountability when members persist in sin.
5. Biblical Leadership
Elders/pastors meet biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3, Titus 1).
6. Ordinances Practiced
Baptism and communion regularly observed.
Questions to Ask When Visiting
| Category | Questions to Consider |
|---|---|
| Teaching | Is the Bible preached verse-by-verse? Is it practical and applicable? |
| Gospel | Is the gospel clearly presented? Is Jesus the center? |
| Community | Do people genuinely love and care for one another? |
| Mission | Is the church reaching out? Do they make disciples? |
| Worship | Is worship God-centered? Reverent yet joyful? |
Red Flags to Watch For
- ❌ Pastor isn't accountable to elders or board
- ❌ Finances aren't transparent
- ❌ Heavy emphasis on money/prosperity
- ❌ Sin isn't addressed or is excused
- ❌ Leadership has moral failures without repentance
- ❌ Manipulation or guilt tactics used
Steps to Finding Your Church
- Pray: Ask God to lead you to the right church
- Research: Look up churches in your area online
- Visit: Attend 3-4 services at each church
- Meet Leadership: Ask to meet with a pastor or elder
- Attend Groups: Try a small group or class
- Decide & Commit: Once you find the right fit, join and serve
Remember:
- No church is perfect—you're looking for faithful, not flawless
- Don't church-hop forever—commit when you find a good fit
- You need the church as much as it needs you