What guidelines should I follow in finding a church?

Ordinarily, we hesitate to suggest specific churches because in so many cases we do not know personally the pastor or the congregation. What may be a good church in one community may not measure up in another. We would encourage you, however, to seek a church that is oriented to the preaching and teaching of the Bible.

Central to its emphasis will be:

• That the Bible is recognized as the infallible Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).

• That God is a Trinity—Father, Son and Holy Spirit (John 14:26; Matthew 28:18-19).

• That salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone (John 14:6, Ephesians 2:8-9).

• That spiritual maturity develops as one dedicates himself to personal prayer, the reading and study of the Word of God, and obedience to what is learned (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Colossians 2:6-7).

The decision you make about your church affiliation is a crucial one! May God lead you to find just that church which is best suited to your personality and needs. This identity will provide much of what is needed for living a full and satisfying Christian life.