"Is there a reason why you don't?" we asked. As we recall, the man's answer had something to do with not feeling comfortable there.
These days, there seem to be church groups for almost every taste. There are old-fashioned conservative groups. There are modern, rock-and-rolling groups. One megachurch now even has a "life group" for people who are fans of Ultimate Fighting. (Hopefully, that group discusses "turning the other cheek" once in a while.)
There are so many options that you'd think every believer could find a place to "fit in." Yet we think there are too many options -- especially for people seeking to know what God really is all about.
Jesus is described in Colossians 1:18 as "the head of the body, the church...." That body is made of believers from all walks of life -- but unless they're connected, they can't really function very well. Read I Corinthians 12:12-27 for a complete, almost humorous explanation of that. Another Biblical passage puts it this way:
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another -- and all the more as you see the Day approaching. -- Hebrews 10:24-25
So if you're looking for a place to meet and worship, where should you go? Plenty of websites offer "guidelines" and rules -- but the problem is that they're a bit like poker instruction books. The standards are often slanted in favor of the author's approach, and a congregation's particular area of emphasis.
We'd suggest looking for a church group that stays close to the Bible, which is the Word of God. That takes reading the Bible carefully, and comparing it with what you're seeing and experiencing. It also means praying for God's guidance and wisdom -- to let Him lead you in where you should go.
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. -- James 1:5
No comments:
Post a Comment