OPINION | Church is the “body of Christ.” It can be a group of two or three Christians meeting in a house, or an assembly of hundreds or more meeting in a building. According to Matthew 18:19-20, as long as we gather together in Jesus’ name, He will be in our midst.
As a Christian, it is essential to your spiritual growth to fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25). We should not be isolated from the rest of the body of Christ, but should share our gifts and our wisdom for the benefit of all (1 Corinthians 12:7).
Finding a church that is right for you and your family is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, and then consider the following important factors:
Doctrine.
Doctrine is “a set of ideas or beliefs that are taught or believed to be true.” Biblical doctrine refers to teachings that align with the revealed Word of God, the Bible. False doctrine is any idea that adds to, takes away from, contradicts, or nullifies the doctrine given in God’s Word.
As early as the first century AD, false doctrine was already infiltrating the church, and many of the letters in the New Testament were written to address those errors (Galatians 1:6–9; Colossians 2:20–23; Titus 1:10–11).
As followers of Christ, we have no excuse for remaining ignorant of theology because we have the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27) available to us—the Bible is complete.
What is the church statement of faith, mission and core values? Select a church that believes that the Holy Spirit is at work in the lives of Christians today. This view includes the power of prayer for salvation, healing and God’s intervention in the lives of individuals.
A time of worship, praise and prayer should be a central part of the service. Not to be overlooked are a strong missions program and outreach to the community.
Fellowship.
Most active churches conduct Sunday morning and evening worship and mid-week services. Other opportunities for fellowship should involve people of all ages, such as children’s clubs, youth groups, and adult gatherings.
Bible studies or home fellowship cell groups will help you meet other church members and help you to grow in your faith. Children shouldn’t be left out, either.
Leadership.
Is there anything more important in a leader than he or she seeking God’s direction? Over and over, the Scriptures show us that Jesus placed the highest priority of His life on spending time with the Father. His life reveals an intense passion for the presence of God. His heart longed and hungered to touch the heart of God.
When the pastor lives a life of prayer like Jesus and becomes intentional about discipleship and spiritual formation, God will use them to transform the church into a sanctuary for spiritually transformed lives.(Hebrews 13:17). Pastoral ministry is not about us, but about Him—about knowing and serving Him.
Select a Church where the leadership always leads people to a better understanding of the Word of God.
Ministry.
How can you minister to others? Look for a place where you can not only be served, but one where you can serve and contribute your talents.
The need to build disciples is so fundamental that Jesus spent three and a half years in full-time discipleship formation. In fact, if Jesus had not built His disciples, there would not be a church today.
Aside from teaching and singing, many churches need people with organizational, leadership and planning skills.
Ultimately, you should worship in a place where you feel the presence and the power of God. Through His power, you will grow and develop into the person God wants you to be, ready to meet the challenges of daily living. And as an active member of a church family, your life will also be enriched through the many blessings and the transforming power of united worship.
By Agencies.
