What To Look For In A Church!

What To Look For In A Church!

Instead of looking for temporal internal needs when evaluating a church, look for eternal external needs. Look for a church that is focused on reaching the community with the gospel of Christ.

Recently on a podcast I was asked what to look for in a church. A great question. One I’ve subconsciously felt for years but never consciously thought about. I responded with a contrast. Instead of looking for a church that focuses on temporal internal needs, look for one that emphasizes eternal external needs.

Let’s admit that the typical approach to evaluating a church often revolves around satisfying immediate, internal preferences. Parents may prioritize a vibrant youth group for their children. A spouse might lean towards a worship style that resonates with their acoustic sensibilities. And you might desire a particular preaching style.

However, these internal preferences are inherently fleeting. Youth grow up and out of youth groups. Musical tastes evolve over time. Even the most engaging teaching style will eventually lose its novelty after countless sermons delivered by the same speaker year after year.

Instead of fixating on these transient internal needs, I advocate for a focus on eternal external needs. A church’s true essence lies in its commitment to reaching beyond its own walls, to engage with the community and share the transformative message of Christ. It should embody the very essence of Jesus’ mission: to draw all people unto Himself. Here are a number of fundamental indicators to discern if a church prioritizes these enduring external needs:

1. Community Presence: Assess whether the church actively engages with the community in meaningful ways. This could include organizing local events, providing services like food banks or counseling, and partnering with schools or other community organizations. A church should be a beacon of hope and support, so much so that the community would feel its absence if it were to close down. A strong community presence indicates that the church is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those around it.
2. Financial Stewardship: Examine how the church allocates its financial resources. Look for transparency in financial reporting and evidence that a significant portion of the budget is dedicated to outreach initiatives, missions, and compassion projects. A church truly focused on external needs will dedicate a significant portion of its budget to outreach initiatives, missions, and compassion projects. This financial commitment reflects a heart for serving others and extending their impact beyond the church walls. It shows that the church values stewardship and prioritizes its resources towards making a broader impact.
3. Welcoming Newcomers: Consider if the church regularly attracts and integrates new attendees. Observe whether newcomers are greeted warmly, provided with information, and invited to participate in various church activities. A welcoming environment that embraces newcomers and encourages them to become part of the community is crucial. Additionally, check if the church offers programs or groups specifically designed to help newcomers feel connected and supported. This inclusiveness indicates a church that values growth and diversity, always ready to expand its reach.
4. Collaboration and Partnerships: Evaluate whether the church collaborates with other organizations to maximize its impact. Partnerships with local non-profits, schools, and other churches can amplify the church’s efforts and resources. A church that seeks partnerships, both locally and globally, demonstrates humility and a strategic approach to addressing broader community needs. These collaborations often lead to innovative solutions and a greater overall impact, showing that the church recognizes the value of working together for the common good. By leveraging collective resources and expertise, such collaborations can lead to exponential positive change.
5. Cultural Relevance and Adaptability: Look at how the church adapts to cultural changes and the evolving needs of its community. Does the church use modern technology, social media, and contemporary methods to communicate its message? While the core message of the gospel remains unchanged, the methods of communication and ministry should evolve to stay relevant. Pay attention to whether the church addresses current social issues and cultural trends in its teachings and activities. A church that embraces new technologies, cultural shifts, and innovative approaches to outreach shows its commitment to effectively ministering to each generation. This adaptability is crucial for remaining effective and engaging in a rapidly changing world.
6. Support for Vulnerable Populations: Determine if the church actively supports vulnerable groups, such as the homeless, refugees, and individuals struggling with addiction or mental health issues. Look for evidence of programs, services, and outreach efforts specifically designed to assist these populations. A church that prioritizes these groups reflects the compassion and empathy central to Jesus’ teachings, focusing on serving those who are often overlooked. This support could manifest through shelters, counseling services, support groups, or advocacy work. A strong commitment to social justice and caring for the marginalized speaks volumes about the church’s values and mission.
7. Global Missions: Consider the church’s involvement in global missions. Does the church support international missionaries, participate in global outreach projects, and encourage its members to engage in cross-cultural mission work? A church with a global perspective supports international outreach and engages with communities worldwide, embodying the Great Commission. Look for opportunities the church provides for its members to get involved in global missions, whether through financial support, prayer, or short-term mission trips. This broader focus underscores a commitment to spreading the gospel to all nations and fostering a worldwide community of believers. It demonstrates a church’s dedication to making a difference not just locally, but globally.

Blog from https://get.tithe.ly/blog/what-to-look-for-in-a-church

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