Finding a church can be difficult, especially when so many congregations claim to follow the Bible but teach different things about Christianity. You may be new to the area, just beginning to explore faith in Jesus, or wondering whether the church you've attended for years truly follows God's Word.
Where should you begin? How can you tell whether a church is teaching the truth? And what should you look for beyond a welcoming atmosphere and friendly people?
Thankfully, the New Testament gives us a picture of what Jesus intended for His church. Knowing what to look for can make your search far more meaningful.
Does the Church Actually Teach the Bible?
A church can use the Bible in every sermon while still teaching ideas that Scripture doesn't support. That's why it's important to pay attention to how the Bible is being explained.
When the first Christians gathered, they devoted themselves to "the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers" (). Their beliefs were shaped by the message Jesus had entrusted to His apostles, and Christians today have that teaching preserved in the New Testament.
Consider the people of Berea. When Paul preached to them, they examined the Scriptures daily to determine whether what he said was true (). That's a wonderful example for anyone searching for a church. Listen carefully, read the passages in their context, and ask questions whenever something seems unclear. A congregation committed to God's Word should welcome that kind of examination.
What Does the Church Teach About Being Saved?
Imagine visiting two congregations and asking the same question: "What must I do to be saved?" One tells you that baptism is necessary for the forgiveness of sins, while another says baptism is something you do after receiving forgiveness. Both claim to follow Scripture, yet their answers differ in an important way.
That's why understanding what a church teaches about salvation should be among your first concerns.
The Bible teaches that salvation is God's gift of grace through Jesus Christ (). Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead (). When people heard this message in the New Testament, they were called to believe, repent, and be baptized for the forgiveness of their sins ().
Take time to read these accounts for yourself. Ask the congregation to explain how its teaching agrees with what Jesus and His apostles taught. This is especially important because the gospel is the message through which God calls people to salvation.
How Should the Church Worship?
Worship is another area where congregations may differ. Some emphasize music and elaborate services, while others practice a simpler form of worship. The important question concerns what God has taught His people to do when they assemble.
The New Testament describes Christians praying, singing, learning God's Word, giving, and observing the Lord's Supper (; ; ; ). These passages help us understand how the early church honored God and encouraged one another.
Jesus said that God seeks those who worship Him "in spirit and truth" (). As you visit, ask why the congregation practices worship as it does. Consider whether its explanations come from Scripture and whether those participating understand that worship is offered to God.
What Should I Notice About the People?
A church's teaching deserves careful examination, and so does the way its members live. Jesus told His disciples, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" ().
Pay attention to how people are treated, especially those who are struggling, unfamiliar, or asking difficult questions. Do members demonstrate patience and genuine concern? Are they willing to acknowledge mistakes and seek forgiveness? Does the congregation encourage spiritual growth beyond attending worship services?
Its leadership matters too. The New Testament describes qualified elders caring for local congregations (). Peter instructed them to shepherd God's people willingly and lead by example (). Look for leaders who know the Scriptures, care about souls, and practice what they teach.
How Do I Know When I've Found the Right Church?
Give yourself time to become familiar with a congregation. Attend worship, participate in Bible classes, speak with its members, and study the passages used to explain its beliefs. As your understanding grows, you'll become better equipped to recognize whether its teaching and practices faithfully reflect Scripture.
Remember that Jesus said, "I will build my church" (). It belongs to Him, and His Word should guide everything His people believe and practice.
Seek a congregation where you can faithfully follow Jesus, grow in understanding His Word, and share your life with Christians who are sincerely striving to do the same. That's a search worth taking seriously, because the people you worship and grow alongside will have a lasting influence on your walk with God.
Those searching for a congregation in Southeast Texas are welcome to visit Memorial Church of Christ in Port Arthur, where visitors can worship, study Scripture, and ask questions.
Plan Your Visit | What Does the Bible Say About Salvation?
Meeting Times:
Sunday Bible Classes 9 AM
Worship 10 AM and 6 PM
Wednesday Bible Classes 7 PM.