Not all churches are of which you can simply “just go” (cf., Ephesus, Rev. 2:5; Sardis, Rev. 3:2b-3; Laodicea, Rev. 3:16-17). Choosing a congregation is a crucial decision because you will become a part of that congregation and will eventually become what it is –and if it is a church that has been rejected of God, then you are putting your eternity in a dangerous position. (Cf., Prov. 1:10-11a, 14a, 15-16a; and, 4:14-15). So, how should you choose a congregation?
Ask These Questions:
I. Is The Congregation Faithful To The Scriptures? (Rev. 3:8; 2 Cor. 2:9).
II. Is The Congregation Worshipping In Truth? (John 4:24; Mat. 15:9). The five acts of worship are specifically: singing, praying, the Lord’s Supper, contribution, teaching the Word.
III. Are The Preacher and the Teachers Teaching The Bible? (2 Tim. 4:2; 1 Cor. 2:2). Do not choose based upon the entertaining, spell-binding, make-me-feel-good preaching ability of the preacher (1 Cor. 2:1,4-5).
IV. If There Are Elders, Are They Elders Doing The Work of Elders? Do they watch over the spiritual condition of the church? (Acts 20:28). Do they use their authority only on expedients?
V. Do The Men’s Business Meetings Exhibit Brotherly Kindness? They must work together; Respect each other’s views; Able to “disagree without being disagreeable.” Yes, choose a congregation whose men exhibits brotherly kindness (2 Pet. 1:5-11).
VI. Is The Congregation Active In The Work Of The Church? (Rev. 2:2-3,19). The work of the church is: evangelism; edification; and benevolence. Avoid the congregation which focuses on the social.
VII. Are The Youth Active In The Work Of The Church? The youth are members of the church too! Avoid the congregation whose youth are there merely for the social—it will influence your children!
VIII. Does The Congregation Love Each Other? (Rev. 2:19; 1 Pet. 1:22).
IX. Does The Congregation Need Your Help? This does not mean that it is wrong to choose a congregation that is not as needy, but it certainly is something you ought to consider. But, you need to make sure that, when you choose a congregation, you are going there to help. [cf., 1 Cor. 12:12f (body)].
Gary Henson