What should we look for in a church?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Though the church age starts with Acts, both the Old and New Testaments offer principles to guide believers in choosing a church. A church should be committed to preaching and teaching God’s word (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 1:8; 2 Timothy 3:15-17). Additionally, a true church follows Jesus’ words about worshiping “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24), avoiding going through the motions with empty rituals and rote prayers (Psalm 51:16-17; Micah 6:6-8). A theologically solid church should not be centered around the pastor or any other person; it should be focused on God (1 Corinthians 1:12-13). The love of Christ should be evident in a good church—in its care for the congregation as well as its outreach to the community (James 1:22-27, 2:14-17; 1 Peter 4:10). Believers should look for a house of worship with a ministry that proclaims the good news outside of the church walls (Matthew 28:16-20). Overall, a church should have Christ as the focal point, teaching that salvation is through Him alone (Galatians 1:6-9).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The Old Testament offers foundational principles that help answer what we should look for in a church by emphasizing faithfulness to God’s Word, genuine worship, and righteous community life. The Old Testament repeatedly highlights the importance of teaching and obeying God’s laws (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Joshua 1:8). A true community honors God by centering on His revealed truth and living according to His covenant.
• God desires sincere worship from His people, not empty rituals (Psalm 51:16-17; Micah 6:6-8). A church should foster heartfelt worship that reflects humility, repentance, and praise to God.
• Prophets like Isaiah and Amos stress that a faithful people practice justice, mercy, and humility (Isaiah 1:17; Amos 5:24). A healthy church lives out God’s commands through care for one another and the wider community.
• The Tabernacle and Temple were central places where God’s presence dwelt among His people (Exodus 25:8; 1 Kings 8:10-11). A church should be a place where God’s holiness is honored and experienced.
• The Old Testament calls for leaders who shepherd God’s people with integrity and wisdom (Ezekiel 34:1-10). A church should be led by faithful, Spirit-led leaders who guide the congregation in truth and love.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• A good church will teach that Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22).
• A good church will not rely on the teaching or personality of the pastor or a denominational leader (1 Corinthians 1:12-13).
• A good church will teach that the Bible is the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:15-17). No other book, teaching, or tradition can take the place of Scripture (Galatians 1:6-9).
• A good church will have the proper view of salvation. Salvation is through Christ alone (Galatians 1:6-9). Salvation cannot be earned through works, rewarded for tragedy, or received through any other method or teaching than Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2; Ephesians 2:8-9).
• A good church will also have the proper perspective about the Christian life. The Christian life is not characterized by guilt or unrealistic burdens (Matthew 11:30). Conversely, Jesus teaches that Christians should not expect an over-abundance of worldly blessings; persecutions and trials are guaranteed—health and wealth are not (2 Timothy 3:12; Matthew 6:19-21). The Christian community should reflect this.
• A church should not be controlling; members should not make demands of fellow believers, but should accept them as fellow brothers and sisters and be willing to live in a relationship that encourages blessings as well as loving confrontation (Galatians 3:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:11).
• A good church will also encourage, train, and equip members in their spiritual responsibilities (Ephesians 4:14; Hebrews 10:24).
• The church is the place where the power of the Holy Spirit is manifest in the service of its members, leading to mutual growth and a passion to reach the lost world for Christ (Matthew 28:19-20).
• A good church will meet its congregants’ practical needs. It will have a place where each member can serve the others (James 1:22-27; 1 Peter 4:10).
• It will have a worship style that fits the congregation—neither needlessly clinging to old tradition nor embracing every new fad without discernment. Instead, the worship style will accurately reflect the God-given personalities that make the church their home (1 Corinthians 12:14-27).
• And a good church will be willing to meet the needs of its members (James 1:27). This could include adequate childcare at gatherings, meals for the sick, or transportation (Acts 2:44-45).
• Always, a good church will include an atmosphere of love and caring, forgiveness and reconciliation (1 John 3:11; Matthew 18:21-22).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Being part of a good church is not just helpful—it’s essential for a vibrant, grounded walk with God. In a culture filled with noise, confusion, and compromise, the right church anchors your heart in truth, reminds you of who you are in Christ, and points you to what truly matters. It’s where your faith is fed, your burdens are shared, and your gifts find purpose in serving others. With a foundation of sound doctrine, a good church lives out what it preaches. It surrounds you with people who challenge you, love you, and walk beside you in every season. When you belong to a Christ-centered, Spirit-led church, you don’t just attend—you flourish and live on mission, loving God and loving others, together.

UNDERSTAND

• A good church faithfully teaches Scripture, exalts Christ as the head, and proclaims salvation through Him alone.
• A healthy church lives out love and truth in community.
• It is good to look for a church that has sincere worship, godly leadership, and spiritual growth grounded in God’s presence and Word.

REFLECT

• How does your current church help you grow in your understanding of God's Word and deepen your walk with Christ?
• How do you feel supported, challenged, and cared for by your church community?
• How are you actively contributing to the life of your church?

ENGAGE

• What qualities most clearly distinguish a church that honors God from one that merely follows religious tradition?
• How can a church balance sound doctrine with meeting the practical and emotional needs of its members?
• What role should church leadership play in creating a community that reflects Christ’s love and mission?