And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;
but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching
Hebrews 10:25-26
I’ve spoken much about the path to belief in Christ’s redemptive death, and how His shed blood and resurrection from the dead have gained forgiveness and reconciliation with God. OK, but then what?
Fellowship
with other saints (believers) is one of the most important areas for Christian
growth and support. Finding a fellowship (church) whose doctrines are in line
with solid biblical Judeo-Christian values is important. But are all churches
the same?
Not
all are, and here’s why: People will sometimes confuse different Christian churches
(Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Assemblies of God, etc.) as different
“religions.” They are all Christian but considered different ‘denominations.’
Those
who are in agreement with the fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith, i.e.,
the Deity of Christ, His Atoning Sacrifice, Bodily Resurrection from the dead and
Baptism, at the forefront of faith, can choose to practice them in ways that do
not violate Scriptural doctrine. Their practice of biblical doctrine, in worship,
praise, fellowship, and encouragement to love and good works, allows them a
freedom to follow Christ in reverence and service and express their faith in ways that can be a fulfilling spiritual experience.
Good
discipleship (modeling and teaching Christian precepts of the Bible) is the
main mission of each and every Christian, followed by a life dedicated to the
study of the Word of God, time in prayer, and good works, which naturally flow
out of a life in Christ. But where to begin?
From my own experience I have found a church that teaches the Bible, book by book, from
Genesis through Revelation can be a great asset to Christian growth. If you’re searching for a church enter ‘bible
teaching churches, genesis through revelation in [your town or area]’ in your search
engine. Read their mission statement. Fortunately,
many churches still adhere to the tenants of sound biblical faith (Titus 1:9),
while, unfortunately, some no longer do, and one needs to be discerning in their
choice (2nd Timothy 2:15).
You
may have to visit a few until you find one where you feel comfortable in sound
Scriptural doctrine and with the congregation. There’s nothing wrong with wanting
to be sure.
If
you’re looking, ask God to give you wisdom and an understanding spirit. James
writes: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives
generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James
1:5).
May
you be encouraged in your walk with Christ Jesus, whether it is just beginning
or a path well-trodden. As God has called us to follow Him, He is faithful to
lead, teach, and sustain us at every step. Ask Him to fill you with the power
of His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).
As
He has promised, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world”
(Matthew 28:20), so shall He ever be. Grace, Peace, and Blessing in
your every endeavor in Christ Jesus.
Ken
