Tips for choosing a sound local church

by Toyosi Adegunle

Choosing the right church can be a difficult and draining process in reality. Whether you are new to the faith and looking to settle in a local church or you've been a believer for a while and you're looking to change your church due to several reasons, it is important to consider major factors before choosing a church. Why? Your choice can make or mar your spiritual growth as a believer. The fact that you're ready says something great about you, you understand that the essence of the church is fellowship and you don't plan on neglecting that. Kudos to you!

Colossians 3:16 says Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

There are several churches in the world, all of which make a beautiful part of the body of Christ. This variety can contribute to your difficulty in choosing one to be firmly planted in one.  Churches are the backbone of local communities, and they play a significant role in the life of their members. But sadly, not all churches provide the same quality of service with the things of God or care for your spiritual growth and lifestyle hence It's important to find a church that will be a good match for you as a Christian — and there are several factors to consider when choosing one:

Five factors to consider when choosing a local church:

• Location: The best place for you to start is with the location of the church itself. This could easily seem like a flimsy factor but it is actually very important to choose a church that is reasonably close to you and you can get to it in spite of any geographical factor or distance. If you figure that you might constantly get to church late due to a problem or factor that you typically can’t control, it is necessary then to consider somewhere closer to you. However, while this is suggested...It is okay for the church you're planted in to be far from you if you have adequate transportation to get there for the services. 

• Leadership: The leadership team at your choice local church will play a large role in how grow and fare spiritually and even in other areas of your life. Are they well-equipped to provide spiritual guidance for you? Do you feel safe spiritually? Can you guarantee that you’re getting the undiluted and true word of God? A good Pastor should be someone who is knowledgeable and passionate about their faith, and who is able to provide guidance and support to the congregation. Look into the leadership of the church and be sure that you are comfortable with them. For example, a church with leadership tainted with substantial evidence about criminal activities may not be the best for you.

• Doctrine: Most churches have different doctrines or belief systems. The specific doctrines will differ from one church to another as we have it today, but a lot of things are non-negotiable and not be overlooked. Important Christian values embedded in the life of Christ, in the world of God and in the teachings of Christ on salvation should be the foundation of every church. The doctrine you exposed yourself to will significantly impact your life views, dreams, visions and relationships with others. For example, a church that is heavy on enemy destruction will make you suspicious of things which can stifle your love walk.

• Sense of community: Your local church should be a place where you feel at home, feel safe, loved and connected. In fact, this can set the pace for your interest in other factors. It’s important that you feel a sense of community wherever you choose to attend. The Bible emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship in the lives of believers. However, make a conscious effort to connect to others. You don't always have to wait for people to connect with it, it's okay to take the first step.

Scripture teaches that being part of a community of believers is essential for spiritual growth and for living out our faith in the world. "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25). The sense of community plays a major role in encouraging and supporting one another in living out our faith.

• The size: A large congregation can be great if you're looking for a community where people are interested in spiritual growth and service; however, it can also be overwhelming if you're new to church life and don't know anyone else there yet. If this is an issue for you, consider finding a smaller church in size with an intimate group of believers who share similar values as yours before joining larger congregations that might not feel welcoming at first glance (because of the size) or you may eventually get comfortable where you are. Many large churches have a smaller units, so take advantage of that and find opportunities to minister in the smaller groups.

Don't be quick to judge a new church, it takes courage to start something new. Also, it is a privilege to be part of what God is doing in a new church and contribute your ideas to the church. don't judge a church by its size, what matters the most is that you see growth and consistency in the word of God.

Ultimately, choosing a church is a personal decision that should be made prayerfully and after careful consideration of these factors. It may take time to find the right church for you, but with patience and discernment, you will find a place where you can grow in your faith and serve the Lord.