Finding a new home church

[biblicalbro]

Greetings all,

I haven't posted here since 2 years ago, in which I had asked for advice about whether or not I should leave my home church.

That can be checked out in the link below,
http://www.christianforums.com/threads/fellowship.7838377/

Although leaving was a thought, it didn't come into fruition until this past June. After spending my whole life there, I left. It wasn't easy but I had to do it. All of the things I've stated in my original post persisted and got worse. No anointing, preaching sounds the same, worship features the same songs over and over again (been like that for the past few years), cliques all over, leadership that does not take action/give discipline while people get away with things. Between last year and now, more people have left than ever before. And I keep hearing the same thing so I'm not crazy.

In short, it's a madhouse.

That aside, what really pushed me out was the fact that I want to be on my own. I grew up in the church with my family. It's nothing personal against them, I just want to grow independently as an adult. Anyways I've visited one church so far, with the plan of visiting more before making a final decision.

Although no church is perfect, there are some that exhibit more spiritual fruit than others because

• Sound doctrine is preached
• Scripture is valued
• Christ is the foundation
• The Holy Spirit is in the midst
• The is a concern for lost souls (evangelism)
• There is unity (even if you're not best friends with everyone)
• There is a setting for fellowship (i.e small groups)
• People are encouraged to grow in their gifts/potential for ministry (discipleship)
• People are encouraged to grow in God (love, spiritual disciplines, etc)
• Lives are changed

These are some of the things I look for in a church. Sound off with your thoughts concerning your experiences in finding a new church as well what to look out for. I'd appreciate the advice. Thanks!

 

[Greg J.]

"Sound doctrine" being preached should be the "Word of God" being preached. References to Jesus are made a number of times in a typical sermon.

The Bible as originally written down is inerrant.

A church that is making disciples for Jesus who will be able to make disciples for Jesus.

Some people are actually encouraging each other to turn to Jesus for help instead of just secular-type solutions (when applicable).

At least 2% of the attenders also attended a gathering for prayer once per week.

The senior-most pastor is praying at least an hour daily.

You hear the word Jesus (or a reference to him) at least once after the service is over (during social time, even if brief).

If there is a board (or eldership), they are in unity with Jesus' agenda.

If you find such a church, treat it as a newsflash, so I find out about it.

(Edited and re-edited)

 

[Goodbook]

Well those would be things I look for as well but most imprtantly where God leads me. You can visit a few churches to find out what they are like but dont be obligated to stay if they not practising what they preach.

Check the fruits and if they tasty then thats a good sign.

 

[biblicalbro]

All good points.

I think if a church gives evidence of growth (albeit imperfections) then that's one that can be taken into consideration.

As a first timer doing this, it's no easy task. I know some people check out several churches whereas others just end up in the first church they visit.