Questions to ask when looking for a church

Preaching and Teaching:

• Is the Gospel being proclaimed faithfully or does it encourage “easy-believism?”

• Is the Word of God being taken out of context or handled correctly?

• Are the people of God being exhorted from the Word of God to live holy lives?

• Are the people falling more and more in love with Christ?

• Are the people learning more and more about the power of God or the power of positive thinking?

Worship and Church Culture:

• Are the Scriptures being read in the worship service?

• Is prayer and Christ-centered songs an integral part in the worship service?

• Are the sacraments (Baptism and Lord’s Supper) being rightfully administered?

• Does the atmosphere reflect a church that is full of love and grace in truth?

• Is there a spirit of joy and reverence for the presence of God?

• Is the glory of God the motive behind the worship or the entertainment of people?

Evangelism and Discipleship:

• Is the church growing numerically? If so, do these new people know the gospel and are they being discipled?

• Is there a plan to make disciples? If so, are the leaders intentional about discipling every member?

• Are the leaders equipping the saints for the work of the ministry?

• Is there church discipline? Are the leaders willing to admonish people and kick people out if necessary to protect the sheep from the wolves?

• Are the elders and deacons godly men of humility and integrity who are involved in the work of the ministry?

Leadership and Church Government:

• Are there checks and balances (accountability) in place for the leaders?

• Is there a constitution and by-laws (some sort of standards) that the leaders are held to?

• Is the statement of faith visible on paper and also in practice?

• Do the leaders foster a culture of apathy towards applying the truth of God’s Word to everyday living or do they create an atmosphere for growth?

Outreach and Cultural Mandate:

• Are the widows, orphans, and the poor being cared for in word and deed?

• Is the church reaching the nations and the local community with the gospel?

• Are the leaders willing to speak openly about the issues of our day?

• Are there gospel-centered ministries to unbelievers in need?

• Are the leaders intentional about teaching people a biblical worldview and influencing culture?

All these questions can be summed up with one question …

“Can I stand before the Lord Jesus Christ and honestly say that this local church is the best place I could find to care for my and my family’s soul?”