Friday, August 13, 2010

Choosing a church

I am sometimes asked for help in choosing or evaluating a church.

Here are some questions that may be useful. Of course, they need to be modified depending on just what kind of church is under consideration.

1. Is Christ effectively central to all aspects of church faith and life?

2. Is apostolic and historic Christian doctrine maintained, especially with respect to Trinity, Christology and the means of salvation?

3. Is there a well-balanced doctrine and practice of the Spirit, or is there a neglect of the Spirit or an undue emphasis on certain aspects of his work?

4. Is the Bible warmly regarded as God's Word and well-taught, or is it undermined by an emphasis on interpretive traditions or by human reasoning?

5. Are the sacraments administered in a way that keeps focus on Christ as the source of grace, or do the sacraments effectively become the means of grace?

6. Is the church mission-minded in reaching out with the truth and love of the gospel?

7. Are the opportunities for fellowship with people who will accept you as you are and promote your Christian growth?

8. Is there opportunity for you to serve with the gifts with which God has endowed you?

9. Is there a pattern of healthy relationships within the church, especially between leaders and led?

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Dear Rev David Burke, Ruby (my wife) and I have been praying for years for our next "spiritual home" after we left ORPC about six years ago. we are now attending an Anglican Church in S'pore and was seeking God about membership. we believe God has answered our prayers after reading this. May God bless you and family as you faithfully serve His people. Love, Joseph & Ruby