Does Your Church Fit?
A young man visited a church for several weeks and seemed quite interested in their collective worship and work; however, he abruptly stopped meeting with the group. Seeking to understand the reason for his departure, one of the church members contacted him to see what had happened. In reply, the young man explained that he and his fiancée were looking for a church “that better fit their needs.” The conversation ended with no explanation of what needs were being left unmet. While his claim may have been legitimate, there are many who “church shop” with a criterion that seeks self-satisfaction rather than seeking to find a church with whom the Lord is satisfied. How does one know when such a church has been found? In answering this question, the following must be considered:
A Church That Looks to God for Salvation: Over the course of Christianity, there have been some churches that viewed themselves as the source of salvation. This, however, is not the case; salvation belongs to God. The apostle Peter explained this when asked the salvation question, “Brothers, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). In answering the question, Peter said, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (38). While a church must make sure that the truth is taught concerning salvation, it must never seek to put itself in the place of God.
A Church That Clings to the Bible: While it must be understood that a church cannot offer salvation, one must also realize that being an active part of a church is a requirement from God. Thus, when an individual’s sins are washed away in baptism, finding a faithful church with which to work and worship is paramount. As this priority is undertaken, one must examine the practices of the church to make sure they are fully aligned with biblical standards. Churches can fall sway to unauthorized practices, so examination is essential. The warning Jesus gave to the Pharisees of His day provides valuable insight: “And he said to them, ‘Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men’” (Mark 7:6-7). Personal likes and dislikes must never be allowed to take precedence over the divinely inspired command.
A Church That Does Not Stray from its Purpose: A study of New Testament churches reveals a narrowly defined purpose. In summary, members of a church are to worship together, edify and admonish one another, and to use their money in spreading the gospel and helping other Christians who are in dire need. The New Testament does not give examples of churches involving themselves in secular activities, offering “ministries” to help various groups in society, seeking to provide for the poor of the world, or fundraising for projects. While these activities may be good in and of themselves, the Lord expects for churches to follow the plan He has given. Whatever concept that society has concerning the work of churches must never be allowed to supersede the plan God has established within the pages of His Word.
A Church That is Free from Entanglements: What is striking about New Testament churches is their independence. Each church is described as being led by a group of elders (the terms pastors and bishops can be used synonymously). Everyone, including these leaders, is considered on equal footing, with no distinctions between the manmade concepts of “clergy” and “laity.” New Testament churches were united with other churches only in their love for the Lord and their desire to follow His ways; none were a part of an organization of churches. When looking for a church with which to work, each believer must make sure that the church under consideration recognizes its independence, answers only to the Lord, seeks no alliances with other churches, and accepts no manmade creed.
A Church that Practices Love: When a church loves the Lord, its members will show the proper love toward one another. This means building each other up through edification and admonishing those who are straying from the path of God. This love also means that sins against one another will be forgiven and grudges will not be harbored. This love will help each to remember that no individual or church is perfect, but that all should seek to be like their Lord. When this is the attitude, even the most serious problems can be resolved.
Conclusion
Current times idolize the concept of individuality and clothing styles are sought to reflect the individualism of the wearer. When it comes to finding a church, such concepts must be left behind. Indeed, believers are not seeking to find a church that fits their individuality but rather seeking to conform to the standards laid down by the Lord. When this is realized, each believer can become an active part of a church that honors God through their devotion and fidelity to Him
