August 21, 2024
Citizens of Heaven

Finding A Good Church | Seven Traits of a Healthy Church

Hello, welcome to Guardians of Biblical Truth. Today, we’ll delve into a crucial topic: finding a good church. This study is for new believers seeking guidance and seasoned Christians perhaps questioning their current church situation. We’ll turn to the Bible, our ultimate source, to uncover seven traits of a healthy church, following the blueprint laid out in Acts 2:42–47.

42 “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42–47 (NIV)

1. Devotion to Sound Doctrine

The foundation of a good church is its adherence to sound biblical doctrine. Acts 2:42 highlights the early believers’ dedication to the apostles’ teachings. There are four core doctrines that are non-negotiable: (1) The Doctrine of Salvation, (2) The Doctrine of Divine Healing, (3) The Doctrine of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and (4) The Doctrine of the Second Coming of Christ. A church that deviates from these key teachings is a red flag.

2. Emphasis on Fellowship

Fellowship, or koinonia in Greek, is more than social gatherings. It’s about the unity of spirit among believers who share the same faith and values. This fellowship involves communion (1 Corinthians 11:24–26), shared meals, and mutual support, reflecting a genuine Christian community.

24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:24–26

3. Commitment to Prayer

A praying church is a powerful church. Acts 4:31 shows us the importance of collective prayer in the early church. Charles Spurgeon, a notable preacher, attributed the success of his ministry to the prayer life of his congregation. A good church that prioritizes prayer is in tune with God’s will and power.

31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:31 (NIV)

4. Heartfelt Worship

Worship is a joyful celebration of God’s goodness. Psalm 100 encourages us to enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. A healthy church focuses its worship on God, fostering an atmosphere of gratitude and joy, rather than a mournful or self-centered approach.

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. 3 Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. 5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100

5. Focus on Discipleship

Following the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20), a good church invests in discipleship. It’s about teaching believers to live out Christ’s teachings and prepare them to disciple others. Continuous discipleship ensures the growth and maturity of the church’s members.

19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19–20

6. Integrity in Leadership and Operations

Integrity should be evident in church leadership, financial dealings, and general conduct. Titus and Timothy outline moral qualifications for leaders. Financial transparency and ethical business practices are also crucial. A good church must maintain integrity both in God’s eyes and before the world (2 Corinthians 8:21).

21 For we aim to do what is right not only in the Lord’s eyes but also in the eyes of man. 2 Corinthians 8:21

7. Dedication to the Great Commission

A healthy church actively participates in local and global evangelism. It’s not just about supporting missions financially; it involves every member engaging in sharing the Gospel. The church’s role is to equip believers to be effective witnesses in their daily lives.

Conclusion: Finding a Good Church

In searching for a good church, pray for guidance, consider your family’s needs, and follow the peace God gives. Remember, church membership doesn’t equate to salvation. Being a Christian means having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, marked by a genuine commitment to follow Him.

Prayer for Salvation

If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, I invite you to pray with me now, out loud:

“Lord Jesus, I confess I’m a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I repent and invite You into my heart as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.”

Thank you for joining this study. May you find a church that aligns with these biblical principles and grow in your faith.

In His Service,

Guardians of Biblical Truth

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