Series: Four G’s : 4 Liberating truths about God Character of God
Original preached September 15 2013
This series is developed from some work by Tim Chester and Caesar Kalinowsk. I am grateful for the impact their work has had.
When looking for a church it is so easy to keep jumping from church to church, and to point out flaws and reasons not to stay.
When looking for a church it is so easy to stay in the loop of looking. Bouncing around gives you a higher chance of burnout in your walk with Jesus.
Make a commitment. Just make a choice. If you are stuck, then make an educated choice and try for 6 to 8 months.
Be honest with people, but make a commitment to work and be with the people. You will get so much more out of the local body of believers by committing to them. Begin to care for them and let them care for you.
Too many people hold off, trying to find that perfect group, and it just is not going to happen. Each group has strengths and weaknesses, but do not let that stop you.
Looking for a Church? Commit to one.
What do you find is the hardest thing about finding a Church?
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What do you want in a local church? While we need to be careful of the consumerism aspect of looking for a church there are some important questions to ask.
Answer the above questions, while remembering you will not find a perfect match to everything or a perfect church. Nevertheless, answering these questions will help.
You may have to compromise on a few things, such as, style; however, let it push you toward God.
In searching for a church what are the most important things to you? What are the core parts?
Looking for a Church? Let me help: You can contact me at: matthew@matthewlaker.com
Do you find yourself looking for a church? What if you began the journey thinking differently?
Often when we look for a church, it is similar to selecting a product. Now that is not always a bad thing because of our personality. Looking at what is happening in the community, and how they will help you grow is an important question.
What if in looking for a church you did not approach it with a consumer attitude, but with serving in mind? Consider looking for a place where you can join in building the kingdom together. Look for a place to serve together with other believers, instead of asking how they can serve you. This may be serving in an uncomfortable area for some time, but that is okay.
Matthew 20:28 (NIV)
28 “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
When looking for a church, consider thinking differently. Go in prayerfully and, with an attitude to find a community where you may serve together in the kingdom of God.
Help I am looking for a Church?
In many major urban centres, people move in and out. This means that often people are coming into the city and looking for a church. For some, this can be a stressful time of trying to find a church and balancing other responsibilities.. Here in Ottawa, we have one hundred thousand University students plus the normal transition of people. Each year there are many looking for a new community of Jesus followers in their new city.
In this series of post, you will find tips to help you find a Church.
Start with Prayer
A follower of Jesus knows the need for prayer. However, are you doing it? Before Jesus chose the 12 disciples, he spent a night in prayer. Prayer is important when seeking a community to live in, and live out the gospel together.
The scripture is full of texts that remind us that God will lead our steps, and is leading our steps. Prayer puts us in a posture to see the guidance of his spirit in our life.
Three things to pray for:
If you are in Ottawa, I have to give a shout out for where I am: www.sunnysidechurch.ca
We would also be glad to help you find a church home if ours is not a good fit. Feel free to send me an email: matthew@matthewlaker.com