“… but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”
–John 15:15
Today I want to talk to you about making a commitment to a local church.
Now, I know you may think, “Pastor, I’m not really into institutions.” Well, I’m not either. But as friends of Jesus, you and I are also called to be friends with other friends of Jesus, and that’s his church.
That’s why choosing a church is one of the most significant choices you will ever make in your life. But not just any church will do. You have to look for a church that’s committed to seeing people grow in Christ Jesus.
Thriving and healthy churches have some important characteristics in common. So when you’re looking, you will want to look for a church where:
- Jesus is loved and celebrated.
- The Word of God is proclaimed, taught, honored, and believed.
- Service is not an option, but where every member is called to ministry.
- People are coming to Christ and lives are being changed.
- Friendships are nourished and families are strengthened.
While there are no perfect churches, there are many that love Jesus and that are passionate about him and his call on their lives. That’s the kind of church we all need to be a part of as believers!
So if you want to grow in Christ, ask him to help you commit yourself to a local church, and to the friends of Jesus who are there. And as you do, you will find that your friendship with God grows increasingly vital, healthy, and fulfilling.
CHOOSING A CHURCH IS ONE OF THE MOST
SIGNIFICANT CHOICES YOU WILL EVER MAKE.
