I have a lot of churches near me, which is the right one?

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There are so many churches near me, how do I know which one is the right fit?

Finding the right church for you and your family is one of the most important decisions you can make.  You can’t simply ask “What are the churches near me?” Although distance is a factor, it shouldn’t be the main one.  There are a number of things to consider when trying to make that decision that can make it confusing and overwhelming.  But it doesn’t need to be.  Most of the key decisions can be grouped into five buckets.  This article will break down each of those buckets. They are the following:

  • Church Doctrine
  • Culture
  • Leadership
  • Distance
  • Church Size
Church Doctrine: 

Of all of the items, this is the most critical.  You have to believe in what your church preaches.  Some of the questions that should be asked are related to the church’s opinion on the following topics:

  • The Bible
  • The Deity of Christ
  • The Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ
  • The Bodily Resurrection of Christ
  • Baptism
  • The Second Coming of Christ
  • Judgment Day
  • Heaven and Hell
  • Salvation
  • Once saved are you always saved?
  • Jesus Christ has risen from the dead
  • Either Allah or Jehovah is God
  • Gifts of the Spirit
  • Importance of keeping the Sabbath
  • Tithing
  • Current Day Miracles
  • Women in Ministry
Culture:

When you walk through the door, does the church feel like home?  Does the style of the church and the worship match what is comfortable for you?  Most churches meet formally on Sunday mornings and/or evenings but do you need more?  Below are some the topics to think about regarding the church culture:

  • What language is the service in?
  • What Bible is used during service?
  • What is the style of worship?
  • How does the congregation typically dress?
  • Are there activities for kids/teens?
  • Outside of the typical church, do small groups meet?
  • Do they accommodate people with special needs?
Leadership:

Is the leader of the church someone you can respect?  Is the church leadership demonstrating a lifestyle you would want to follow?

Distance:

“What are the churches near me?” is a valid question.  The commute to your church could be a factor for your attendance and participation. If you will want to be more involved than just one day a week, attend special services or events, an inconvenient location may be problematic. That being said you should not sacrifice doctrine or culture for distance.  Find the balance that is best for you.

Church Size:

The choice of a small, medium or large church depends on your and family’s preference and desires.  A smaller church usually gives you the best chance to create close relationships.   The larger churches usually have the capacity, funding, talents and other resources to take on large projects.

 

Ultimately, you should choose the church, and church family, where you are the most comfortable and that helps to strengthen your faith.  Again, finding the right church for you and your family is one of the most important decisions you can make.  Take your time, get your questions answered and find the right church family.

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By | 2017-06-29T21:48:31-04:00 June 25th, 2014|Church home, Church Listings, Churches near me, Find a church|Comments Off on I have a lot of churches near me, which is the right one?

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