These Christians often become angry at God and sometimes very angry at themselves when they fail. Just any church? Absolutely. These simple acts of service might look like writing an encouraging letter, as Paul did, or taking someone to lunch to get to know them or to pray for them. Here are some of the answers, and then I'll give you mine. being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6). In Ephesians 6:18, Paul actually commands us to pray this way. My small group and I have been greatly blessed, and I want to let you know and thank you for inspiring us to "strengthen our grip," even in this current time where things seem to have only gotten worse. He prays, Father, make them one as we are one (v. 20-22, paraphrase). Scripture says, Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Whenever they discuss them, its like theyre fresh in their heartsall the bitterness comes back. First John 3:18 reiterates the importance of the practical nature of love. The Value of Healthy Relationships ( 5:12-15) Leaders who take their calling seriously ( 5:12) A pastor works. Evangelism is simply telling non-Christians the good news about what Jesus Christ has done to save sinners and urging them to repent and believe. While inside the church, they should participate in the Lords Supper, which typifies the death of the Lord Jesus for his people. Paul tells Timothy the Lords servant should not quarrel with people, but he should have a reputation of kindness, not resentment. Rom 1:13). How to Recognise a Healthy Church - Insight for Living UK The church universal is the body, and we should continuously pray for it, since we are connected to it and dependent upon it. The Measure of a Healthy Church: How God Defines Greatness in a Church Healthy Christians want to be with one another, and they meet as often as possible. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless.. Philip 1:20). This trait is a characteristic we have been seeing for the past few years. John 13:34). However, this would be a great subject for a discussion with your church leadership. Something about those children intrigued me, but I couldn't figure out what it was. Copyright 2023, Southern Equip. If not, your gospel fellowship will be weak or nonexistent. Oh, there is joy in meeting with the people of God! What Is a Healthy Church? by Mark Dever - Barnes & Noble 18:1520; 1 Cor. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. It says. Application Question: How is your longing to meet with the saints? He said that even though the Philippians, who were part of the Macedonian churches, were struggling themselves, Gods grace was manifest through them. Before you set a foot out your door, though, I encourage you to ask God to lead you in your search. This church shows how Gods Word applies to todays needs, issues, and concerns. Drama has also begun to feature quite prominently in some churches. Paul probably focused on the latter, which is also a sign of a healthy congregation. But, we must remember that the Philippian church wasnt perfect either. Most of our friendships are based on koinoinia. (2 Timothy 1:3-4), in my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God's will the way may be opened for me to come to you. When Should I Leave My Church? | Desiring God They understand the constant power and hope of the gospel only presents opportunities. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. Conrad Mbewe(PhD, University of Pretoria)serves as pastor of Kabwata Baptist Church in Lusaka, Zambia, and founding chancellor of the African Christian University. My name is Mister Joe." Paul said I long for you with the loins of Christthe very inner parts of Christ were yearning through Paul to be with this church. 10 Ways to Identify Potential Church Leaders - Pushpay In this letter, specifically verses 3-8, we will see a picture of what healthy church members look like. Saints, we must understand how important this isprayer is the power of the church. Gods grace will change our hearts toward his church. They saw the leaders, the Apostles, move quickly as soon as the dissent arose. (Philippians 1:3). Paul, at the time he wrote the letter, was imprisoned in Rome awaiting his sentence. The early Christians provide a great example of this: They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. The New Testament explicitly refers to some people being inside the church and some people being outside (1 Corinthians 5:12-13). It will edify others and it will edify you (1 Cor 14:4). Sadly, very few in the church faithfully use Gods grace, which handicaps the church. It will be natural to yearn with the affections of Christ. And you always strive for peace, even when you must go. Are you longing? As a leading program in Christian broadcasting since 1979, Insight for Living airs around the world. No, I really cant, said the contestant. Often, songs are sung, Scripture read, announcements made yet worship is missing. When someone prospers in the church, we should rejoice with them. Everything in a church flows from its understanding of the gospel: preaching, counseling, discipleship, music, evangelism, and missions. Greg Brown has served twenty years in pastoral ministry, including twelve in his current position as a chaplain and professor at Handong Global University and the teaching pastor at Handong International Congregation. When each member shares a common passion and ministry of spreading the gospel, it creates a tremendous fellowship. Access to full video library. All rights reserved. If Christ on the cross had joy thinking about his church, if Paul in prison had encouraging thoughts about the Philippians, even though they were imperfect, how much more should we have pleasant thoughts about our church throughout the week? Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. Often, songs are sung, Scripture read, announcements madeyet worship is missing. In our trials and failures, God desires to draw us closer to him through his Word, prayer, and the saints. While many deserted Paul during his time in prison (cf. What work did he believe God would complete in the life of the Philippians? He also served as a U.S. Navy Reserve chaplain until his retirement in 2022. Christ says that entering the kingdom of God means being bound to the church on earth (Matthew 16:16-19; 18:17-19). Why should we long to meet with our brothers and sisters in Christ? The Lords servant is gentle and gracious, even when in a disagreement, because he trusts in God. 1. I am really hopeful. 1. The Building What is the importance or value of a church building? The local church. The people of Macedonia were generous but dirt-poor (II Corinthians 8). Healthy leaders do not fear change. Application Question: What are your spiritual gifts? Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. Emanating from these foundational issues are key leadership traits. Church leaders are called to follow Jesus' example by feeding, guiding, and protecting their sheep (Jn. Jesus explicitly identifies himself with the gathering because the gathering makes his kingdom visible and active through their mutual agreement and testimony. As I approached, he looked in my direction and said, "Hi. This is the primary purpose of the church and of individual Christians. "You might notice that the people are excited to be there. Application Question: How can I know if I lack faith in God to complete his work in others? How is God calling you to grow in this endeavor? Closely connected with the preaching of the word of God should be the proclamation of the true gospel. Just any church? Whatever your situation, I want to help you distinguish a healthy church from one thats not. This is why one of the very first achievements of pioneer missionaries who came to Africa was to translate the Bible into the language of the people. Application Question: What type of thoughts should we have and to what should they lead us? Just any church? He said he always prayed for the church with joy. 28:19: . Confidence is simply another word for trust or faith. A church whose leadership has not explained or formed a vision that states, "This is who we are, this is where we're going, and this is how we're going to get there," is unhealthy in the highest form. This is why one of the very first . Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. The only people who should remain in the church are those who show genuine faith and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ, the great head of the church. Answer God established the church to be the primary agent for carrying out His purposes on earth. Consider what he said in Romans 1:9-10: God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times.. Learn how your comment data is processed. Churches come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own personality. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For more information and application about Gods purpose for the church, read: Charles R. Swindoll, The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal(New York: FaithWords, 2010). We should constantly think about how to stir up one another to love God and others. Healthy church members use Gods grace to build Gods church. We should meet with believers to find out the temperature in their spiritual life. The church should be one place where men and women are constantly reminded of the way in which God reconciles sinners to himself. Churches come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own personality. How did he love us? Whatever your situation, I want to help you distinguish a healthy church from one thats not. Here are 10 characteristics of a healthy church: Photo Credit: Thinkstock/digitalskillet 1. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. They cared for one another. When disaster comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it? Your browser does not support JavaScript. Its not the denominations fault. A "popular crowd". And this is true for healthy churches and church members as well. 4. Church leaders also need to create a well-thought-out and written strategy with practical steps that turn the vision into a reality. The major theme of that story is how the church dealt with a challenge to its fellowship and peace. Churches should evangelize and teach about the Christian life in such a way that the radical nature of conversion is continually emphasized. He gave it so they could advance the kingdom through showing hospitality, giving, and living sacrificially. Just any church? Jesus called people to repent and believe in him (Mark 1:15). while protecting both themselves and the church through the wisdom of their plurality (Proverbs 11:14; 24:6). 1. But some of you may be relocating to a new area, or you are not currently worshipping at a good church. This word started to be used for compassion or affection since we often feel our greatest emotions in our stomach. This is the heart of the word of God. His love was sacrificial. God Is Truly Worshipped It means caring about what the church is and what the church should be because you belong to the church, Christian. It is a special bond shared by those who work and sacrifice to see others know Christ. Then its time to decide which church personality is right for you. When you look at the church, you will find much disorderfighting over doctrine, impatience, unforgiveness, and church splits. Expository preaching is important because Gods Word is what convicts, converts, builds up, and sanctifies Gods people (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; John 17:17). This is much more than a casual association. A believer might be asking these questions, How can I know what my spiritual gift is? He smiled a big grin and said,"Hi, Mister Joe!" First John 3:14 says, We know that we have passed from death to life because we love the brethren. Conrad has authored over nine booksand contributed to many others. Other posts in this series on the church: Your email address will not be published. Perhaps you've moved and are unfamiliar with the area. Used with permission. On the other hand, if a church fosters a culture of Christian discipleship and growth, it will multiply believers efforts to grow in holiness. Or are you a worrier and an anxious person? Preaching that makes the main point of the text the main point of the sermon makes Gods agenda rule the church, not the preachers. Are you supporting the work of missions? How Do We Know When it Is Time to Give Up? There was a reason why the Lord established judges but the people begged for a king and when they got a king it proved disappointing and to their own folly. Are you practicing personal evangelism with friends and church members? 1. I see more signs of healthy church leaders today than I have seen at any point in my 30 years of ministry. Paul says this person hopes or trusts in God to grant them repentance. What does a healthy church and its members look like? Or you could be a new Christian in need of a place to worship. 1 Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). Perhaps youve moved and are unfamiliar with the area. By Thom Rainer November 16, 2018 I am encouraged. . Or a truly healthy one? You can tell its not gospel fellowship by changing the music, the carpet, or how you take the offering in most churches. Here are 7 signs of an unhealthy church cultureand more importantly, how to fix them when they show up in your church culture. Matt 5:30). Using 30 years of pastoral service in Lusaka, Zambia, Conrad Mbewe applies biblical principles to help bring depth and maturity to African church leaders. And that's what started me thinking about churches. See if they are hospitable and loving strangers. What Are the Signs of a Healthy Church? And finally, when biblical knowledge becomes an end in itself, it brushes dangerously close to idolatry worshiping the Bible above its Author, Jesus Christ. You included this, but Id like to emphasize the importance of outreach. In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Paul tells Timothy that the church should pray for everyone because God desires that all be saved. Church Culture Article Index | GotQuestions.org In fact, one of the themes of this letter is joyhis joy in God and his joy over the Philippians. Instead, they encourage treating others with respect and dignity, allowing the Holy Spirit to work in His way and time. By meeting with Him often, admitting to others our struggles with pride, and continually asking ourselves, Will this bring glory to God or to me? Seven ways to identify a healthy church If a leader has all of the following seven traits, it is likely that leader will lead the congregation to greater health. Also, preaching that fails to balance instruction with love and grace may reflect intolerance. Core solution: Opportunity. Swindoll's Living Insights Bible Commentaries, The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal. These activities are valuable and necessary, but they are not a churchs primary purpose, nor do they make it healthy. Not necessarily rich. Promoting biblical discipleship and growth is important because none of us are finished products. These people listened to the Word, and through communion and prayer, they interacted with each other and the Lord. You and I cannot sit off to the side and watch the Jerusalem congregation deal with the dissension that arose when one group of widows began complaining that they were being neglected in the daily distribution of food in favor of the majority group. They dont do things the way theyve always done them. Interpretation Question: What does Paul mean by the Philippians sharing in Gods grace with him? Systematic theology is any study that answers the question, What does the whole Bible teach us today? about any given topic. 16. Characteristics Of Healthy Churches (1 Peter 5:1-5) IF YOU GO . How can we as believers develop greater confidence in Gods perfect work for each believers life? Philippians 2:25 says, But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.. Some are family centers that provide a good environment for children; others are theaters, where music and drama are emphasized. 5 Steps to Finding a New Church If you are already worshipping and serving at a healthy church, you are blessed. Paul wanted to know, so he sent Timothy to find out (1 Thess 3:2). But it only one thing at a time. What Is a Healthy Church? - Mark Dever - Google Books It was simply something to do, a habit, and an opportunity for an update on that situation you were curious about. Yet they readily celebrate good news. They get out of their offices and into the community. And its not the communitys fault. For years, I thought Acts 6:1-6 was all about the origin of the first deacons in the church. This is also true of our spiritual lives. In Ephesus, he prayed that they would have the spirit of wisdom and revelation to know God more (1:17). I remain an obnoxious optimist about the future health of churches. He understood that they might disagree with what he taught, but he essentially said this to them: Stay open, God will make this clear to you. I have confidence that God will reveal these things to you. Building A Healthy Church: What You Need To Know For more information and application about Gods purpose for the church, read: Charles R. Swindoll, The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal (New York: FaithWords, 2010). Get a sense of what the overall teaching ministry is like at the church. We had some contentious issues with a former pastor and, because we are in a small community, the issues continue to pop up (since he has started a new church in this area). No doubt, when he was discouraged, he listened. With all that church searching, weve learned to spot a healthy church and weve learned some marks of an unhealthy church. They might list all the church members, divide them by seven, and pray for each throughout the week. They know how their churches are doing, for better or worse. It clarifies how churches should exhort non-Christians. 5:22). The church is meant to be a place where godliness and truth are upheld. 21:15-17). Are you resentful and unforgiving? He cites their partnership in the gospel. In fact, he uses this church as a model for other churches. He is the author of many books and served as a pastor for several years. Some websites may also have a list of churches that align with your personal beliefs and convictions. Application Question: How is God challenging you to love the church more like Christ? How to Recognize a Healthy Church | Insight for Living Canada Taking time to ensure you get rest allows you to find balance for your busy schedule. It teaches churches to maintain a sharp distinction between themselves and the world. In effect, it answers the question 'how successfully are we manifesting the heart of Jesus?'. This is because they lack confidence that the trial is ordained, the trial is chosen, and God is working in the trial to make them look like Christ. What could they have possibly seen that would have brought about that kind of reaction? We develop gospel fellowship by serving together, as we build Gods kingdom through discipleship, evangelism, and missions. And finally, when biblical knowledge becomes an end in itself, it brushes dangerously close to idolatryworshiping the Bible above its Author, Jesus Christ. Next, Paul says it was right for him to have such deep seated thoughts, love, and affection for this church. It says, All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. Moreover, any time Scripture speaks of the gospel, it is teaching us what we are to share in evangelism (Romans 1-4 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). The true gospel must be an essential component of the definition of the church. They constantly and persistently evaluate everything. In a narrow sense, church discipline is the act of correcting sin in the life of the body, including the possible final step of excluding a professing Christian from membership in the church and participation in the Lords Supper because of serious unrepentant sin (Matthew 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 5:1-13). Are you a healthy Christian? While there, he gets sick and almost dies. On the other hand, a biblical understanding of evangelism clarifies our role in the mission God has given to the church: we are to preach the good news about what Christ has done and pray that God would bring people to believe it. As the Father has "highly exalted" His Son, so should we (see Philippians 2:9-11). In what ways is God challenging you to foster gospel fellowship in your life and your church? gospel-centered, Bible-centered content. Despite that, he said God witnessed how he constantly prayed for them at all times. One of the most telling signs of innate influence is an ability to effortlessly draw people in and build consensus. Discipline is part of the very definition of the church. Servant leadership. In fact in chapter 4, he talked about how no other church shared with him financially but them (Phil 4:14). When a person really likes someone, he often feels it right in his gut. According to Scripture, God accomplishes what he wants to accomplish through speaking (see Genesis 1:3, Isaiah 55:10-11, Acts 12:24). They are constantly asking how they and their churches can do better. Being a Christian means caring about the life and health of the body of Christ, the church. This is a church that believes what it says. Application Question: How are your thoughts towards the church? 10 signs of a thriving church - Subsplash Consider how Paul boasted about the Philippians when addressing the Corinthian church. He said that unless someone is born again he cannot enter the kingdom of heaven (John 3:1-8). Listen to what Hebrews 12:2 said about Christs thoughts as he endured the cross: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God., What was the joy set before Christ? When they met, intensity and full-hearted devotion blended with passionate commitment. We partner with people because they share similar cultural experiences, similar hobbies, or similar dreams. How to Identify and Find a Good, Healthy Church - BibleSumo This is very biblical. Or you could be a new Christian in need of a place to worship. Although not an exhaustive list, the following seven areas will help you diagnose the health of your church or one you are visiting. With discipline by Gods grace, we will bear peaceful fruit of righteousness (Hebrews 12:5-11). How can we grow in this radical, Christlike love? To glorify God means to magnify, elevate, and draw attention to His radiance. When was the last time newcomers walked into your fellowship and were so impressed by what they saw, within one minute they were ready to sign on the dotted line? Listen, Saints, if you dont long to meet with the church then something is wrong with your spiritual life. ", Mike said, "I need a little more than 30 seconds to determine if a church is healthy. He said, I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strongthat is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.. Your confidence lies more in yourself or others, and therefore, you stay constantly frustrated. After Christ's resurrection, He spent 40 days with His disciples explaining what the mission of the church should be. He wanted to help them grow by teaching them the Word of God (cf. It involves collecting and understanding all the relevant passages in the Bible on various topics and then summarizing their teachings clearly so that we know what to believe about each topic. Yet, while in this horrible circumstance, his thoughts continually came before the Lord in praise for the faithfulness of this church. Right before he went to the cross he prayed, Father, I pray that you would sanctify them by your truthyour word is truth (John 17:17, paraphrase). How can a church or any organization function or truly exist without vision? Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Part of this chaos springs from a lack of trust in God to complete the work he began in others. Full access to all digital downloads & resources. Spiritual gifts are given to build up the church (1 Cor 12:7). They get very frustrated when they fail and struggle to get back up after stumbling. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Learn how God measures a . Look for sincerity in their conduct who are different in ethnicity, social-economic scale, age, and cultural background. and teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.". . What about the other 80%? Expository preaching is the presentation of biblical truth, derived from and transmitted through a literal, historical, grammatical, theological, Spirit-guided study of a passage in its context, which the Holy Spirit applies first to the life of the preacher and then through him to his congregation. It is possible for Gods grace to be without effect in usmeaning not used. Besides evaluating the Sunday sermon during your visit, look for previous audio recordings and video livestreams. All rights reserved. We should serve them as an act of love. They and another boy had several large-wheel vehicles at the top of the levee which they were riding down to their yard across the grassy expanse. Churches that do not consistently reach out to the world around them end up imploding. Not an indicator of poor health, but the symptoms should be addressed promptly. Those who worship this idol believe that enough success will eventually bring happiness, satisfaction, and relief. It is relevant in approach. Later in this letter to the Philippians, he prayed that their love for one another would grow in knowledge and wisdom so they could discern what was best (1:9-10). When Scripture talks about the church being the body (Eph 4:4), many times we think first of our local church, but that is incorrect. A healthy church is one that reflects six significant qualitiesqualities you want to look for. Copyright 2010 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. Pastor Chuck Swindoll has devoted his life to the accurate, practical teaching and application of Gods Word. Are you allowing God to work through you to build up other Christians? As I reached my turning-around point and headed back, I noticed they were doing something different. Founder & CEO I am encouraged. In addition, we see Pauls concern for the Philippians as he writes a letter to encourage them in the faith. and protect the sheep from attackers (Acts 20:27-29; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Titus 1:9). 1. Youll discover that some churches are way stations for the wounded; others are town squares, where a herald announces good tidings from the King. Do the members engage with one another before and after the service? Introduction The twelve devotionals presented here are offered to you and your church council in the hope that they will help you think biblically and talk deeply about your congregation's health. We must trust himboth in our lives and in others. feed Gods sheep Gods word (John 21:15-17). To support this, Warren Wiersbe shared a story of a husband who was interviewed on a radio station about his wife. These activities are valuable and necessary, but they are not a churchs primary purpose, nor do they make it healthy. Certainly, this doesnt remove the need for rebuke or discipline. the purpose of proclaiming the gospel through publishing Ukraine war: Public service broadcast details what to do in nuclear