How To Find A Good Church
Church hopper. That name refers to someone that can never seem to stay at a church long-term and put down roots. Church hoppers are everywhere. They’ll attend somewhere, begin volunteering, and then before you know it, they’re gone again. Maybe they had their feelings hurt by someone in the church. Maybe the preaching stepped on their toes a little too hard. Maybe they “just weren’t being fed.” There are lots of reasons people move around a lot.
This shouldn’t be normal though for a disciple of Jesus. The goal for every family should be to find a good, solid (not perfect) church, and then remain with them over the long haul. Through transitions, through hard times, through troubles; once you find a church, that church should become family in which it becomes extremely difficult to depart from.
But, there might be times in our lives where we are forced to look for another church. Maybe immoral leadership has been allowed to take over, or you’ve moved to a new town, or you’ve been out of church for so long you just need to find somewhere to begin attending in the first place. Where do you start?
Finding a good church can feel overwhelming. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. We must begin with a biblical worldview about what makes a ‘good’ church before we can find one. But the most important thing is this: make sure it’s a church that honors God’s Word. Everything else comes after that. Let’s dive into the process, step by step, and explore what Scripture says about each part.
Start with Prayer
Before taking any steps to find a church home, begin with prayer. This is the most critical and foundational part of the process because it acknowledges your dependence on God for guidance and wisdom. The Bible promises in James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Seeking a church is not just a practical decision; it’s a deeply spiritual one that affects your growth, accountability, and opportunities to serve within the body of Christ.
Through prayer, ask God to direct your steps and help you discern what He desires for you in a church community. Too many of us prioritize our style preferences so much that we’re willing to look past unbiblical practices or weak theology. Pray for a heart that prioritizes His will over personal preferences, asking Him to align your desires with His plan. This includes being open to churches you may not have initially considered and having the humility to listen for His leading, even if it surprises you.
As you pray, ask for clarity in understanding what to look for in a church. Seek His wisdom to distinguish between essential biblical qualities and secondary preferences. Pray that God will open doors to the right church, close doors to unhealthy ones, and protect you from influences that may lead you astray.
Also, pray for the ability to evaluate a church with spiritual maturity. For instance, ask God to help you focus on whether the church teaches sound doctrine, encourages discipleship, and fosters genuine community rather than just being drawn to style, convenience, or traditions that may not be rooted in Scripture.
Finally, invite others to pray with you. Share your journey with spiritually mature friends or family members and ask them to intercede on your behalf. Collective prayer can provide additional encouragement and confirmation as you seek God’s direction.
When you start with prayer, you demonstrate trust in God’s sovereignty and wisdom. You also prepare your heart to approach this decision with faith, humility, and discernment, ensuring that finding a church home becomes an act of obedience and worship rather than merely a checklist task.
Look for Biblical Preaching
The foundation of any good church is its unwavering commitment to the Bible. In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul instructs Timothy to “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” This passage emphasizes that faithful preaching isn’t always pleasant or easy to hear. It involves reproving (correcting errors), rebuking (calling out sin), and exhorting (encouraging believers to follow God’s will). True biblical teaching centers on Scripture rather than comfort, popularity, or entertainment.
When you visit a church, pay close attention to the preaching. Ask yourself:
Is the Bible being explained and applied? Faithful preaching takes a passage of Scripture, explains its meaning in its original context, and applies its truths to modern life.
Does the pastor prioritize Scripture over personal opinions, cultural trends, or charismatic delivery? While a dynamic speaker might capture your attention, biblical preaching doesn’t rely on performance. It prioritizes God’s Word, even when the message is uncomfortable or challenging.
Are tough truths addressed? A faithful church will not shy away from teaching hard truths, even when they step on toes or go against cultural norms.
You’ll often hear certain pastors or leaders say something along the lines of, “People get beat up enough throughout the week. They know they’re sinners. I don’t need to tell them that. We just want to encourage them and let them know they’re loved.” This sounds wonderful and legit, but it’s anti-biblical. This is not what the Bible teaches, nor is this the approach the Bible commands pastors to do. If this is the thinking of the leadership team of a church you’re visiting; run!
Biblical preaching isn’t always easy to hear. It’s not meant to be a motivational speech or a feel-good pep talk. Sometimes, it will convict you, pointing out areas in your life that need change. Other times, it may challenge your assumptions or confront sin directly. This process of conviction is necessary for spiritual growth. As Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword… discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
On the other hand, be cautious of churches where Scripture is twisted to fit an agenda. In 2 Peter 3:16, Peter warns about those who “distort” Scripture to their own destruction. These distortions might manifest as teachings that downplay sin, prioritize worldly success over holiness, or redefine biblical truths to align with current cultural trends. A faithful church will respect the authority and sufficiency of the Bible, allowing it to speak for itself without manipulation.
Ultimately, a good church will teach God’s Word with clarity, patience, and reverence. It will challenge, convict, encourage, and equip you to grow in your faith and live as a faithful disciple of Christ. While this type of preaching may not always feel comfortable, it is essential for your spiritual health and maturity.
Examine the Church’s Theology
Theology is what a church believes and teaches about God, salvation, and Christian living. These beliefs form the foundation of everything the church does. Without sound doctrine, a church can drift into error, compromising the truth of God’s Word. Acts 2:42 describes the early Christians as devoted to “the apostles’ teaching,” a teaching rooted in Christ and the Scriptures. Any faithful church today must remain committed to these timeless truths.
Here are key theological stances to examine when considering a church:
What They Believe About Jesus
The church’s view of Jesus is central to its theology. Pay attention to whether they affirm that:
Jesus is fully God and fully man, as described in John 1:1-14. This doctrine is critical because it affirms His divinity and humanity, enabling Him to be the perfect mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).
Jesus was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died as a substitute for sinners, rose bodily from the dead, and will return one day to judge the living and the dead. These truths are essential to the gospel message.
What They Teach About Salvation
A biblically faithful church will affirm that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
Avoid churches that add works, rituals, or human effort as requirements for salvation. This includes teachings that imply you must earn God’s favor through good deeds or religious practices.
Ensure the church emphasizes repentance and faith as essential responses to the gospel (Mark 1:15; Acts 3:19).
What They Believe About Scripture
A faithful church holds to the authority, inerrancy, and sufficiency of the Bible. This means:
The Bible is God’s inspired Word, free from error (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
It is the ultimate authority for all matters of faith and practice.
It is sufficient, meaning that nothing needs to be added to or taken away from it (Revelation 22:18-19).
Be cautious of churches that rely more on human traditions, cultural ideologies, or emotional experiences than on Scripture.
What They Believe About Key Cultural Issues
In today’s world, cultural pressures can tempt churches to compromise biblical truth. Pay attention to their stance on:
Sexuality and Marriage: Does the church affirm that marriage is a covenant between one man and one woman, as described in Genesis 2:24 and upheld by Jesus in Matthew 19:4-6? Do they maintain that sexual intimacy is reserved for marriage and that any deviation (e.g., adultery, fornication, homosexuality) is sin but can be forgiven through Christ?
The Sanctity of Life: Does the church affirm that all human life, from conception to natural death, is sacred and made in the image of God (Psalm 139:13-16; Genesis 1:27)?
Gender: Does the church teach that God created humanity as male and female, and that gender is not a social construct but a divine design (Genesis 1:27)?
What They Teach About Christian Living
A good church will equip its members to live out their faith. This includes:
Discipleship: Encouraging spiritual growth through Bible study, prayer, and accountability (Matthew 28:19-20).
Service: Teaching that believers are called to serve others using their God-given gifts (1 Peter 4:10).
Holiness: Calling members to pursue a life that reflects God’s character, avoiding sin, and walking in obedience to His Word (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Avoiding Doctrinal Compromise
Be wary of churches that downplay or distort these truths. For example:
Churches that deny Jesus’ divinity or reduce Him to merely a good teacher or moral example.
Churches that affirm universalism, the false idea that everyone will be saved regardless of their faith in Christ.
Churches that reinterpret Scripture to align with cultural trends, such as redefining marriage or affirming unrepentant sin.
By prioritizing sound theology, you ensure that your church home is rooted in biblical truth, providing a firm foundation for worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth.
Evaluate Worship
Worship is far more than music; it’s about glorifying God and responding to His greatness with reverence and gratitude. In John 4:24, Jesus declares, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” True worship engages both the heart and the mind, centering on God’s character, works, and worthiness.
When evaluating a church’s worship, consider more than the style of music. Whether the church uses traditional hymns, contemporary songs, or a mix of both, the focus should always be on praising God—not showcasing talent or creating a production-like atmosphere.
The Heart of Worship
Worship is not about entertainment. Be cautious of churches where the stage feels like a concert venue and those leading worship seem more concerned with their performance than inviting the congregation to participate. Pay attention to:
Who holds the spotlight? Do those on stage seem to draw attention to themselves through dramatic gestures, elaborate solos, or excessive focus on their abilities? Or do they humbly direct the focus to God? Worship leaders are meant to lead the congregation into God’s presence, not become the center of attention.
Is the congregation engaged? Worship should invite active participation from the church, not merely spectatorship. A healthy worship environment encourages everyone to sing, pray, and respond together as a body of believers, rather than leaving the experience to those on stage.
The Content of Worship
The lyrics of worship songs are as important as the melodies. Pay attention to what the songs communicate about God and faith.
Are the lyrics biblically sound? Do they align with Scripture, pointing to God’s truth rather than vague emotionalism or unbiblical ideas? Worship that lacks theological depth can lead to shallow understanding and misplaced focus.
Do the songs glorify God? The best worship songs magnify God’s character—His holiness, grace, love, power, and majesty—and recount His works, such as creation, redemption through Christ, and His ongoing faithfulness.
Are the songs Christ-centered? Worship should draw attention to Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and lordship.
The Purpose of Worship
True worship leads believers into the presence of God and reminds them of His grace, power, and love. It is a sacred time to reflect on His greatness, confess sins, give thanks, and surrender anew to His will. Be cautious of churches where worship feels overly scripted, emotionally manipulative, or disconnected from the teaching of God’s Word. Worship should always complement and prepare the heart for receiving biblical truth.
Warning Signs
Watch for these potential red flags in a church’s approach to worship:
A focus on performance over participation, where the congregation seems disengaged or uninvolved.
Lyrics that are theologically weak, vague, or centered on human emotions rather than God’s attributes and works.
A reliance on production elements, such as excessive lighting effects, smoke machines, or elaborate staging, that distract from the purpose of glorifying God.
Ultimately, worship is an invitation for the entire church to glorify God together in spirit and truth. It is not about personal preferences or the skill of those leading; it’s about exalting the Creator and Savior who is worthy of all praise. Seek a church where worship humbly draws your focus to God and encourages your heart to respond in awe, gratitude, and obedience.
Observe the Community
The Bible makes it clear that the church is not just a gathering place or a weekly event—it is a spiritual family. In fact, the New Testament consistently describes Jesus’ disciples as members of one body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27) and calls the church a household of faith (Galatians 6:10). Jesus Himself emphasized the centrality of love in this family, declaring, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). A healthy church reflects this love in both its relationships and its priorities.
Love as the Hallmark of a Healthy Church
A loving church feels like a spiritual family where members genuinely care for and support one another. This doesn’t mean everyone will be perfect, but it does mean there will be an atmosphere of grace, kindness, and encouragement. Look for signs of this love in action:
Do people know each other’s names and stories? A healthy church fosters real relationships, where members move beyond surface-level interactions and engage with one another’s joys, struggles, and spiritual journeys.
Is there a culture of serving? In a loving church, people willingly serve one another, whether it’s helping with practical needs, praying for each other, or providing encouragement during difficult seasons.
The Importance of Community
God designed the church to be a place where believers grow together in faith and accountability. Christianity is not a solo journey—it is meant to be lived out in community. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”
When visiting a church, pay attention to how they prioritize community:
Are small groups or Bible studies available? These smaller settings provide opportunities for deeper relationships, accountability, and spiritual growth. They are often the heart of a church’s community life, where members can pray for one another, study Scripture together, and share life’s ups and downs.
Does the church foster intergenerational relationships? A healthy church family includes people of all ages—older members mentoring younger ones (Titus 2:1-6), children being nurtured in faith, and everyone learning from each other’s experiences.
A Spirit of Grace and Encouragement
In a true spiritual family, grace abounds. Members forgive one another, speak kindly, and encourage each other to grow in Christlikeness. This doesn’t mean conflicts never happen, but a loving church addresses them with humility and a desire for reconciliation (Ephesians 4:32).
Red Flags to Watch For
While no church is perfect, be cautious of churches that:
Seem cold or unwelcoming, where people don’t make an effort to greet or include newcomers.
Have a culture of cliques or exclusivity, making it hard for new members to connect.
Lack opportunities for building relationships outside of Sunday services.
Why Community Matters
God created us for relationships—not only with Him but also with one another. A loving church provides a spiritual family where you can grow, be supported, and support others in return. This kind of community isn’t optional; it’s a biblical mandate. As Galatians 6:2 reminds us, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Seek a church that takes this command seriously and demonstrates the love of Christ in how they care for one another.
Finding a church that feels like family might take time, but it’s worth the effort. Being part of a loving, grace-filled community will help you live out your faith in ways you could never do alone.
Look for a Commitment to Prayer
Prayer is a vital part of any church. Acts 1:14 shows the early church devoted to prayer, united in seeking God’s guidance and power. A good church will make prayer a central part of its worship services, ministries, and leadership.
Pay attention to how the church prays. Are they praying for God’s will, the needs of the congregation, and the salvation of the lost? A prayerful church reflects a dependence on God and a desire to honor Him in all things.
Consider Their Mission and Outreach
While the church exists to glorify God by building up and discipling believers, one of the natural results of this is an outpouring of love and service to the surrounding community. A healthy church doesn’t exist for itself—it seeks to reflect Jesus’ love and character by intentionally loving and serving its neighbors. Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), and part of this mission includes meeting both spiritual and physical needs in His name.
Outward Focus: Sharing the Gospel and Serving Others
A good church is outward-focused, intentionally engaging its community and the world with the love of Christ. This involves both evangelism and acts of service, demonstrating the truth of the gospel through words and actions. Consider these markers of a church committed to outreach:
Evangelism: Does the church actively share the gospel in its community and beyond? A healthy church equips its members to share their faith, hosts outreach events, and prioritizes making Christ known.
Missions: Does the church support local and global missionaries? Do they invest in spreading the gospel to unreached people groups?
Acts of Service: Is the church meeting tangible needs in its community? James 1:27 reminds us that “religion that is pure and undefiled before God” includes caring for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. A healthy church will have ministries or partnerships that serve these groups, reflecting the compassion of Christ.
Following Jesus’ Example
Jesus modeled a life of service, constantly reaching out to those in need—the hungry, the sick, the outcast, and the brokenhearted. A church that seeks to follow Jesus will do the same. This might include:
Feeding the hungry: Hosting food drives, supporting food banks, or providing meals for families in need.
Caring for the sick: Offering prayer and support for those who are ill, visiting hospitals, or partnering with healthcare ministries.
Helping the marginalized: Supporting refugees, advocating for the vulnerable, and welcoming people from all walks of life into the church community.
How to Recognize an Outward-Focused Church
When visiting a church, ask questions about their outreach efforts. Look for signs that they are actively engaged in sharing God’s love beyond their walls:
Do they have specific ministries or programs aimed at serving the community?
Are there opportunities for members to get involved in service or evangelism?
Do they emphasize the importance of missions, both locally and globally?
Pay attention to how the church speaks about outreach. Is it seen as a priority, or does it seem like an afterthought? A healthy church will have a clear vision for loving its neighbors and making Christ known.
Why This Matters
The church is called to be a light in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). When a church is actively loving and serving its community, it reflects God’s character and draws people to Him. Outreach isn’t just an activity—it’s a natural overflow of a church that is faithfully following Christ. As members grow in their faith, they will naturally desire to share God’s love with others.
A church that is inward-focused and neglects its community misses a vital part of its mission. But a church that is actively sharing the gospel and meeting needs displays the transforming power of Christ to a watching world.
Joining God’s Mission
When you find a church that is committed to loving its neighbors like Jesus, you’ll have the opportunity to join in that mission. Whether through volunteering, sharing your faith, or simply showing Christ’s love in everyday interactions, you’ll be part of a community that glorifies God by being His hands and feet to the world. Look for a church where you can grow spiritually and also live out your faith in tangible ways, impacting lives for eternity.
Examine the Leadership
Leadership is one of the most critical aspects of a healthy church. Hebrews 13:17 reminds us, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.” Church leaders carry the weighty responsibility of guiding God’s people with humility and faithfulness, knowing they are ultimately accountable to Him.
Leaders Are Real People
It’s important to remember that pastors and church leaders are not perfect models of the faith. They are real people with real stresses, real struggles, and real families. They face the same pressures and temptations as anyone else, often compounded by the unique demands of ministry. They are not called to be flawless but faithful—devoted to God and His Word, striving to lead with integrity and a genuine heart for His people.
While leaders will have their shortcomings, their love for God and their desire to shepherd His flock should be evident. Look for leaders who demonstrate humility, acknowledging their need for God’s grace, and who are transparent about their humanity while striving to grow in Christlikeness.
The Heart of a Leader
Church leaders are called to be servant-leaders, modeling the example of Jesus, who came “not to be served but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). A leader’s character is far more important than their charisma or polish. When visiting a church, consider these questions:
Do they have a genuine love for God and His Word? Faithful leaders prioritize Scripture as the foundation for their teaching and decision-making. They don’t rely on their own opinions but point people to God’s truth.
Are they approachable and relational? Good leaders are accessible to their congregation. They listen, care, and build relationships rather than maintaining an air of superiority or distance.
Do they exhibit godly character? Leaders should embody the qualities described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9—integrity, self-control, humility, and a good reputation both within the church and in the wider community.
Leadership Sets the Tone
The culture and priorities of a church often reflect its leadership. Leaders who are humble, accountable, and committed to God’s Word will foster a church that values those same qualities. Pay attention to how leaders interact with the congregation:
Are they servant-hearted? Do they lead with humility and a willingness to serve, or do they seem focused on their own agenda or image?
Are they invested in the spiritual growth of others? A good leader disciples others, helping them grow in their relationship with God and equipping them for ministry.
Are they accountable? Healthy leaders are not lone wolves; they welcome accountability from other leaders, elders, and the congregation.
Red Flags to Watch For
While no leader is perfect, be cautious of leadership that:
Appears unapproachable or overly polished, with little connection to the congregation.
Avoids accountability or resists constructive feedback.
Displays arrogance, self-promotion, or a focus on personal power rather than service.
Why Leadership Matters
The leadership of a church plays a pivotal role in its spiritual health. Faithful leaders keep watch over the souls of their congregation, seeking to guide, protect, and nurture them in Christ. When leaders have a heart for God and His people, it will show in how they teach, serve, and relate to others.
Ultimately, good leadership doesn’t demand perfection but prioritizes humility, faithfulness, and a genuine love for the body of Christ. Look for leaders who, though imperfect, are striving to glorify God in their service and shepherding.
Bottom of Form
Don’t Be Swayed by Size or Style
The size of a church doesn’t determine its health. Big churches can be faithful to God’s Word, and small churches can be just as faithful. Focus on the church’s commitment to Scripture, theology, and community. Similarly, don’t let preferences about music or facilities overshadow what truly matters.
Take Your Time
Finding a good church is worth the effort. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Be patient. Visit multiple churches. Pray for guidance. Use Scripture as your ultimate guide.
Conclusion
Choosing a church is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a Christian. It’s where you’ll grow in your faith, build relationships, and serve God’s kingdom. Look for a church that honors God’s Word, teaches sound theology, fosters genuine worship, and serves with love and humility. When you find a church like that, you’ll be in a place where you can thrive spiritually and glorify God with your life.