WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CHURCH Are you looking for a church to attend? Are you seeking a place to worship by yourself or with your family? Would you like a community of Christians to call your spiritual home? Have you recently moved to northern Kaufman County but still haven't found a church you really like? Well, you may be thinking this article is about to turn into a commercial. It's not. I promise. While any of you are certainly welcome to join us for worship at Water of Life anytime you like, my purpose in writing this is to share with you some things to keep in mind when evaluating any church as a potential spiritual home.
First, does the life, worship, and teaching of the church center on Jesus Christ? Some folks call it being "Christ-Centered." The most important part of the Christian Faith, bar none, is Jesus Christ himself. You should think twice before joining any church that does not make it a point to focus on Jesus Christ and what he has done for us through his death and resurrection.
Secondly, and this is closely related to the first one, is the Gospel clearly proclaimed, not just in the pastor's sermons, but in the content of the music, prayer, and teaching ministry of the church for children on up to adults?
What is the Gospel? In its simplest form the Gospel is that because Jesus died and rose again, our sins are forgiven and we have peace with the Triune God.
Finally, does the church make it a regular practice to preach God's Word, baptize people, and join together in partaking of the Lord's Supper? These practices are sometimes called "the means of grace." They are the gifts Jesus gave to his people so he could stay in touch with us until he comes again.
While it is often difficult to attempt a list of what is most important, Martin Luther identified seven marks of the Christian Church that we can use when thinking about becoming a member of a particular congregation. According to Luther, the Christian Church possesses and makes use of 1) God's Word; 2) Baptism; 3) the Lord's Supper; 4) the Forgiveness and Retention of Sins; 5) Called and Ordained Ministers; 6) Prayer; and 7) Suffering.
Ooooo, not that last one, you say? The good news is that those first six gifts of the Church strengthen and equip us as God's holy people to face all suffering with faith, trusting in God's mercy and hoping in his love that never fails.
What about programs for the kids, a particular style of music, or fun activities for the whole family? Those things are certainly nice, but they are not what makes the Church who she is. When looking for a place to worship, think about what is most important for the spiritual health of you and your family and trust that God will meet your other needs as well.
