What Do You Want In A Church?

Printed in House To House/Heart To Heart

Many church-goers attend worship weekly with expectations and desires that keep them active in a local church. For some, their congregation offers an atmosphere of friendliness and warmth. Others attend because of the positive, uplifting messages heard from the pulpit and classes. Many participate in an active, energetic ministry that is visibly involved in the lives of its members. The priorities of worshippers usually determine the church to which they will belong.

Although these qualities may sound noble, they all are flawed because of their egocentric nature—that is, they center on the person. Worship, which is the practice of praise and adoration, should be centered, rather, around God, the object of one’s worship. Such a plea begs the question, “What does God want in a church?” The church is, after all, the body of Jesus, and it naturally makes sense for Jesus to have some authoritative say in what goes on in His church. So what does Jesus want?

First, Jesus wants to be known as the church’s founder. He purchased it (Acts 20:28), built it (Matthew 16:18) and saved it (Ephesians 5:23). He is its rock (Matthew 16:18) and its foundation (1 Corinthian 3:11). Therefore, a church that honors a human founder dishonors Jesus.

Second, Jesus wants his church to be laborers in a three-fold work because he was. Jesus sought to save the lost (Luke 19:10), assisted the poor (John 13:29) and encouraged the saved (John 14:1). Therefore, his church exists to evangelize the lost (Matthew 28:18-20), to assist the poor (Acts 4:34-35) and to edify the saved (Ephesians 4:11-16).

Third, Jesus wants his church to be united. It was one of his final prayers before his arrest (John 17:20-21). Some falsely think that they can meet this goal while disregarding doctrines established by Christ. It seems, however, that minimizing Jesus’ words and commands would stir more division instead of bringing peace and unity. Jesus condemned manmade doctrines (Matthew 15:8-9); therefore, to follow such is to divide Christ.

Fourth, Jesus wants his church to worship him in spirit and truth (John 4:24)—that is, with the right motivation and according to his word. The Bible describes authorized worship to be communion (1 Corinthians 10:16), singing (Ephesians 5:19), praying (Acts 2:42), giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) and teaching (1 Timothy 3:15). Men may incorporate additional ideas into their worship that are not found in God’s word, but these are additions that should be removed.

Fifth, Jesus wants his church to be organized like he established it. Jesus is the chief shepherd (1 Peter 2:25) under whom the elders or pastors serve. Always used in the plural form (and never in the singular), pastors oversee a local congregation (Acts 20:28). They are assisted by special servants or deacons who minister in various capacities (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Preachers labor in the word to evangelize the lost and to teach and to edify those who are saved (2 Timothy 4:2-5). Every member is expected to minister in word and deed (1 Corinthians 12:24-27). A church organized differently is not structured correctly.

Other characteristics can be found in the Bible that help one to understand what Jesus wants in His church. The preceding five ideas are merely a place in which to begin the exploration for truth. Many people are unfortunately shackled by false religion, traditions and philosophies (Colossians 2:8), but only truth will liberate them (John 8:32).

Dear reader, are you looking for a church that follows the Bible? Are you tired of manmade doctrines and creeds of men? My plea for you is to consider churches of Christ. You are welcome to visit any of our services, and you will not be embarrassed, pressured or asked for donations. Our quest is to be called “Christian” only and nothing else. Our desire is to follow the Bible only and nothing else. Our wish is to please God and no one else. Please give us a call today if you would like to know more information about the church of Christ.