Choosing a Church
Some Questions
for the Pastor
Choosing which Church to attend is not a simple question, because many issues are involved. To clarify – a good Church is not necessarily what we might think, but it’s much more about what God thinks. The Church is made up of His people and leaders, and it goes on to reason that He has an opinion of what makes for a good Church.
If we were to find two Churches that He would approve of, then we are apparently free to choose among them based on our preferences. Churches, being made of people, will have an endless variety of flavors and styles. And that’s great, because God loves the variety of people He has made to fill His Churches. We just need to make sure we belong to a Church that obeys Him.
Church leadership and their view of the Bible are two very important aspects coloring a Church. The Bible, and the Church’s opinion of It, will dictate how they can be expected to handle everything under their authority. Knowing a Church’s leaders, their character, and their direction is very important – because these are the same people who will be in a place of authority over you, once you join. You’ll want to be sure your leaders are trying to do things God’s way. Good leaders will also be important to you if they are one day called on to help you change course in your life. Knowing that your leaders do things God’s way is crucial.
The following questions can help you identify the beliefs of the leadership of the Church you are considering for membership. Consider Paul’s letter to the Colossians, and ask yourself if this Church’s leaders are worthy, like Paul.
Colossians 1.25-29
I have become (the Church’s; vs 24) servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone
with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his
energy, which so powerfully works in me.
Purpose of the Church
What do you believe are the main functions and goals of a Christian Church?
What role does God the Father play in the world? The Son? The Holy Spirit?
What role does prayer play in your Church? Service? Missions?
What is the Bible
What is your view of the Bible? Is it historical? Inspired? Suggestive and/or authoritative?
How does the Bible play into the direction and activities of the Church? What about the leadership?
Is the rest of the Bible’s contents as valid as Jesus’ own words?
What style of preaching happens here? Topical? Expositional?
Jesus
Who do you believe Jesus is, and what was His purpose in coming here?
What do you believe Jesus’ purpose is now?
Do you believe Jesus’ birth was actually a Virgin birth? Is that important?
Was Jesus mother, Mary, somehow special? Was she without sin?
How is someone “Saved”?
Church Leadership
How is the leadership of the Church organized?
How is leadership chosen at your Church?
Do you believe there are different leadership and service roles based on gender?
How do you believe a Pastor comes to serve the Lord?
What does a Pastor need, to do a good job?
How are corporate Church business issues dealt with here?
What do you expect of your Church attendees?
What is your position on Church Membership?
Church Members
Do you have to be a member to be involved with ministry at your Church?
If we attended here, what ministries might we be involved in?
What attention does the Church place on attendees’ growth or discipleship? What avenues do you have available?
How is guidance and discipline handled with Church members? Non members?
For an excellent source of more in-depth study, see “Life in the Father’s House”, ISBN 1596380349