What is a Good Church?
That is a good question, and almost impossible to answer. Recently I’ve been visiting many different churches to do ministry, and to answer that question I’d have to discuss tradition, personal preferences for music and speaking and ambiance, noise level, pastoral style, and so many other things.
What does Scripture describe as a “good church?” First of all, we know it’s not a perfect place, because a church is full of imperfect people. (GASP) A “good” church is never problem-free. On the contrary, a good church may have lots of problems!
Some folks leave church because they get hurt by the people. This is understandable, but it’s the wrong solution. Much better to stay in the body, work it out, follow Scriptural principles of conflict resolution, and pray for those who hurt you rather than run. Church is messy. Church is hard work. But stick with it.
In Scripture, the very first “church” is described in the Book of Acts. Here are some qualities of the New Testament church that we should emulate.
- They prayed - A LOT. Everything they did was birthed by prayer
- They preached the gospel - EVERYWHERE. The business of the church is bring people to Jesus.
- They loved each other. They disciplined each other. They held each other accountable.
- They had faith. Miracles are a part of a good church.
- They were happy. Joy is always the result of encountering God.
- They followed the Holy Spirit’s leading. Programs are good but the Holy Spirit must be allowed to do what He wants in the church.
- A good church will change - but do it PEACEFULLY. Tradition will cause the church to die. God needs room to work.
These are some of the values our church works towards. We believe we can, we do, and we will have a good church!
“I LOVE THIS CHURCH!”
|
STUDY
