09/06/2026
What to Look For in a Church
Read: Acts 2:42, 44β47
The first-century church turned the world upside down with its message (Acts 17:6). What made the early church so powerful was the wholehearted commitment of its members to follow Christ. When searching for a church, look for these five characteristics of a healthy church:
1. Look for a Church That Meets Regularly
The early believers did not see the church as merely a social gathering, but as a place for fellowship, encouragement, and spiritual instruction. We miss great blessings when we neglect meeting with God's people. When we are spiritually weak, we should not run from churchβwe should run to church.
2. Look for a Church That Prioritizes Bible Study
The first Christians devoted themselves to the apostlesβ teaching. These teachings about the life and ministry of Jesus became the foundation of the New Testament. Studying the Bible is essential for spiritual growth because it helps believers understand God's truth, commands, and will for their lives.
3. Look for a Church That Values Corporate Worship and Prayer
The early church understood the importance of worshiping and praying together. Corporate worship focused their hearts on God's greatness and allowed them to express gratitude and praise. Corporate prayer united believers in seeking God and bringing their requests before Him as one body.
4. Look for a Church That Cares for Its Members
The early believers shared their resources and cared for one another's needs. Scripture teaches us to support fellow believers who are struggling and to demonstrate Christ's love through generosity and compassion (2 Corinthians 9:1β15).
5. Look for a Church That Is Growing
Church growth ultimately comes from God. While believers are responsible for faithfully serving, sharing the gospel, and making disciples, God gives the increase.
Acts 2:47 shows that as the church remained faithful, the Lord added to their number daily.
A healthy church is marked by faithful fellowship, sound biblical teaching, united worship and prayer, genuine care for one another, and ongoing spiritual growth.