How to choose which church you should attend
Many people ask, “How do I know which church to join?” There are the Baptists, the Methodists, Roman Catholics, and now I hear about these Lutherans…which is the right one?”
CHURCH, Church, or church
Let’s define terms. Church primarily means “everyone who believes in Christ.” It can also mean a denomination, a local congregation, or a house of worship, depending on the context.
Religion means “a system of belief.” People often refer to major world religions, such as Christianity, Hinduism, or Islam. In reality, there are only two religions in the world. One teaches that we must save ourselves by good works. The other, the only true religion, Christianity, teaches that God saves us by an act of mercy, in Christ, who suffered, died, and rose again for our sins (note that not all who use the term Christian teach this in purity).
Branch indicates a major division of Christian religion that is distinguished by a particular theology or way of interpreting the Bible. Roman Catholicism teaches that one can pray to the saints. The Reformed deny the real presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper. Arminians say that man can make a decision for Christ.
Denomination refers to a subdivision of the Christian religion, often organized according to church government. For example, Episcopalians are organized under bishops; Presbyterians have a system of presbyters, or elders, and so forth.
Then there are local congregations. Most are affiliated with a denomination; all are in some branch of Christianity, that is, they have a system of interpreting the Bible.
Scripture Alone
What you’re looking for is a local congregation that interprets the Bible correctly. “Not so fast,” you say. “Don’t all congregations claim to have the truth?”
Well, yes, but evaluating a congregation is not as hard as you might think. Here’s what to look for:
Look for the Gospel
Choose a church that teaches you to trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. You can’t save yourself any more than you can lift yourself by our own bootstraps. The Bible says:
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior. Titus 3:5-6
That is the Gospel. And the Gospel is the central teaching of the entire Bible. When you visit a church, listen carefully and ask yourself if the Gospel is central to the sermon. Is it central to the hymns? Is it central to the order of worship?
To Be Specific
1. Does this church believe the whole Bible is God’s revelation to man?
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16
2. Does this church believe in the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. St. Matthew 28:19
3. Does this church believe that Jesus Christ is the only Son of God and the only Savior of the world?
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. 1 John 4:14
4. Does this church believe that Christ died for the sins of the whole world?
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:2
5. Does this church believe everyone is saved by the grace of God through faith in Christ’s atonement?
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8
6. Does this church believe that Baptism washes away all sins?
And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:16
7. Does this church believe the words Jesus spoke when He instituted the Lord’s Supper?
And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. St. Matthew 26:26-28
A Few Dont’s
Don’t select a church merely because it is the nearest one or has the most attractive building or the most programs.
Don’t suppose that all churches are alike, that all are equally good and lead to the same place.
Don’t hesitate to join an orthodox (right believing and teaching) church even if some family members object.
Our Invitation
The Lutheran church endeavors to preserve and pass on the entire truth of God as it is found in the Bible. It does not destroy the truth of God by believing only what seems reasonable. The Lutheran church is centered in the Gospel. Christ crucified is the main point in all sermons, hymns, and worship services.
We invite you to worship with us and work with us in serving God and man. Our pastor will be glad to discuss your interests, questions, problems, or needs with you.
If you do not live in the Commerce area and would like to locate another local church that teaches the Word of God use this link: http://locator.lcms.org/nchurches_frm/church.asp