So, you have decided to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and you want to grow deeper in Him. While it is true that there are many ways for you to grow spiritually, finding a church that is right for you is one of the most important decisions you need to make.
Now, you might be asking, is there a right way to choose a church?
Why a church is essential to your spiritual growth
The first thing that would come to your mind when you hear the word church is probably a building, a location, or a denomination. But the church that the Bible describes is more than that.
The Bible refers to the church as the people, a community of believers who are followers of Jesus Christ. The church is the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27).
Church is necessary because it’s a place of worship, fellowship, a place to study His Word, and ultimately, a place to fulfill the Great Commission. Hebrews 10:25 gives another reason why the church is essential to your spiritual growth.
“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:25 ESV)
Why join a church
Following Jesus and obeying His teachings are shared goals. It means you need a spiritual family to help you grow and become spiritually mature.
Through the church, Christians are encouraged to bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:1-3) and to uplift each other by sharing stories of God’s faithfulness.
How to choose a church that is right for you
Choosing a church that is right for you is something that should be done with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To help you start, here are some important factors to keep in mind as you make this very important decision in your life.
1. Doctrine
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a church is its accordance with the Bible. Select a church that bases all its teachings on the Word of God and believes in the power of the Holy Spirit and salvation through Jesus. You can check this in the church’s mission and vision statement and in their statement of faith.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
2. Leadership
Do the pastors and leaders demonstrate a lifestyle you would want to follow? While not everyone is perfect, pastors and church leaders are called to lead the congregation. They should be Biblically qualified leaders, spiritually strong, and have a firm hold on the biblical truths of their faith.
“For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” (Titus 1:7-9 ESV)
3. Ministry
A good church encourages its members to serve and use their gifts to build up and equip one another.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies–in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV)
4. Fellowship
Christian fellowship is essential to spiritual growth. Many aspects of your spiritual life depend on being together with other believers to encourage, teach, serve, and share life together through weekly services, or bible study groups.
These activities cultivate strong relationships with fellow believers and help deepen your faith in Christ.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24 ESV)
5. Church Size
Would you opt for a large church or a small one? The answer will still depend on your spiritual needs and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Both can faithfully uphold the same truth and address your spiritual needs. Smaller churches tend to be more intimate and can offer personal care and accountability to their members. Meanwhile, larger churches can minister to a broader range of people and offer diverse programs to the congregation.
Above all, as a Christian, you belong to a church. You are part of the community of believers whose ultimate purpose is to serve, love, and worship Jesus Christ and make Him known throughout the world. So, choose a church where you feel God’s presence the most!
Do you want to connect to a church near you?
If you are looking for a church, the CBN Asia Prayer Center has hundreds of faithful church partners who can help you live a fruitful Christian life. Call us at 8-737-0-700 so we can connect you to the nearest church in your area.