MARCH 10 DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READING: 2 TIMOTHY 4:1-4
Some people have the philosophy that any church will do. That's not true if you want to be in a place where you will hear the true message of the Scripture. There was a time when by the name over the door you pretty much knew what you would hear when you walked in... those days are long gone. Many mainline denominations, as well as evangelical, as well as charismatic, etc...have gone away from the truth into apostasy. The only way to know what a particular church teaches is to ask, then to go inside and listen with discernment. Any old church will not do...we need to be in Bible believing, Bible teaching churches. A church that is established on the gospel of Jesus Christ and is serious about carrying out His great commission.
People do a lot of church shopping these days...and quite frankly I think that is a good thing, if you're shopping for the right things. Sadly, far too many have an unbiblical shopping list, and they are seeking the wrong things in a church. They look for size. They look for great and extensive programs. They look for style of preaching...they look for style of music. They look for what the church can do for them. These should not be the primary things we look for when looking for a church. First and foremost, we should ask, "Is the Word of God, the Holy Bible taught here." Then..."Is Jesus and what He has done taught?"...including that He alone is the Savior of our souls. Third, "Are the fundamental doctrines of biblical faith taught?"...the Trinity, the substitutionary atonement, the Incarnation, the Resurrection, the infallibility and the inerrancy of the Scripture and many more. Also, "Is this church a people who live and function as the body of Christ...do they love each other, fellowship with each other?” There are no perfect churches...but there are churches that genuinely serve and worship a perfect Savior. The final thing when finding a church...ask the Lord if He wants you there, if He does, be obedient and get involved.
Please share your thoughts.
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