Finding a healthy church that aligns with biblical principles can be challenging. There are many factors to consider when evaluating the health and soundness of a church. Here are some key areas to look at when recognizing a healthy, Bible-based church:
Preaching and Teaching
One of the most important aspects of a spiritually healthy church is solid biblical preaching and teaching. The pastor and teachers should preach verse-by-verse through books of the Bible, allowing scripture to speak for itself (2 Timothy 4:2). Topics should be driven by the text rather than choosing topics first. Expository preaching should provide context, analysis, illustration, and application of scripture.
Biblical literacy, theology, and discipleship should be encouraged through Sunday school classes, small groups, and other Christian education opportunities (2 Timothy 2:2). There should be a high view of scripture, with the Bible as the ultimate authority and provider of guidance for faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Leadership
Biblically qualified elders and deacons should be leading the church (1 Timothy 3:1-13). The elders should be men who meet the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Godly and discerning leadership helps ensure the church stays grounded in sound doctrine and fulfills its purpose and mission.
There should also be accountability for leaders and a plurality of elders rather than a single pastor in authority. While the senior pastor often serves as primary preacher and overseer, he should be accompanied by a team of elders who mutually share in the spiritual oversight of the congregation (Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5, James 5:14).
Theology and Doctrine
A biblically sound church adheres to biblical theology and doctrine. Core doctrines like the inerrancy of scripture, the Trinity, the deity of Christ, original sin, justification by faith alone, and the authority of scripture should be taught and affirmed.
Be wary of churches that deny or ignore essential doctrines like the existence of hell or the necessity of faith in Christ for salvation. Non-negotiable historic Christian beliefs should be maintained while secondary doctrines can allow room for disagreement. Essential theology should align with orthodox Christian creeds like the Apostles’ Creed.
Sacraments
A church grounded in scripture will practice the sacraments instituted by Jesus Christ himself. Namely, baptism and the Lord’s Supper (communion) should be observed (Matthew 28:19, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). These visible signs and seals of God’s promises should be handled appropriately and with reverence.
Members and Attendees
The congregation should demonstrate the fruit of changed lives and obedience to God’s Word. There should be humility, love for one another, sobriety, honesty, and morally upright living (Galatians 5:22-23, Colossians 3:12-14). Sin should be confronted appropriately in an attitude of restoration (Matthew 18:15-17).
Church discipline should be exercised when necessary, following the pattern in Matthew 18 and other scriptures. The Great Commission call to make disciples should lead to regeneration and spiritual growth among members. Genuine salvation and submission to the Lordship of Christ will be apparent.
Worship
Worship should focus on exalting God rather than entertaining people. Music choices and lyrics should be theologically sound and set an appropriate tone for reverent worship. Worship services should include scripture reading, prayer, confession, sound preaching, and observance of the ordinances (baptism and communion). (John 4:23-24)
There should be opportunity for believers to exercise their spiritual gifts for the edification of the body. The Holy Spirit’s work should be evident with engaged and responsive participation. Visitors and non-Christians should feel welcomed without compromise of doctrinal purity and commitment to scripture.
Outreach and Discipleship
Fulfilling the Great Commission should be a priority with active evangelism and mission efforts locally and worldwide (Matthew 28:18-20). There should be emphasis on making disciples through one-on-one discipleship relationships. Bible studies, missionary support, community service, and evangelistic events further the church’s gospel witness.
The church should strive to meet spiritual and physical needs both within and outside the congregation. Mercy ministries, support for marginalized groups, and concern for social justice demonstrate Christ’s love in action. These efforts glorify God by sharing the gospel and displaying the power of transformed lives.
Unity and Relationships
Healthy churches make biblical community a priority. Small groups, Sunday school classes, and other opportunities for fellowship allow deeper connection between believers. There should be genuine love and care for one another as members serve each other spiritually and physically (John 13:34-35).
Denominational politics and racial, ethnic, cultural, or socioeconomic divisions have no place within the body of Christ. All true believers are united in Christ. Petty quarrels and personality conflicts should be avoided as believers walk in humility and spiritual maturity (Ephesians 4:1-6).
Structure and Practice
While specific church governance and organizational policies may vary, biblical principles should guide all church operations. There should be financial transparency and good stewardship. Governing documents, financial statements, and minutes of elder meetings should be open for review.
Decision-making processes should be clear and open. Lay participation through committees allows the congregation to use their spiritual gifts. Policies and practices for finances, facilities, personnel, and ministries should be sound, ethical, and account for scriptural responsibilities.
Prayer and Service
Individual and corporate prayer should be encouraged throughout all ministries and congregational life. Prayer meetings and submit prayer requests provide opportunity for the church body to lift needs and praises up to God. Intercessory prayer, prayer chains, prayer partners, and other efforts reveal dependence on God. (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
The church should provide opportunities for members to serve based on spiritual gifts and talents. Volunteer roles, ministry teams, and leadership pipelines allow each person to contribute to the church’s health. Serving one another and the community demonstrates faith in action (1 Peter 4:10).
Biblical Counseling
Pastoral counseling and general church advice should be grounded in scripture. Counsel given should align with biblical principles rather than rely solely on secular psychology and worldly wisdom. Care should be taken to address heart issues rather than only surface-level problems.
Support groups, recovery ministries, mentorship programs, and other efforts should point to Christ and the Word for hope, healing, and spiritual growth. Counselors should have appropriate training and experience to provide sound care for issues like marriage, parenting, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and more.
Mission and Vision
The church’s mission should align with the Great Commission call of Matthew 28:18-20 to make disciples who obey Christ’s commands. The vision should prioritize outreach, evangelism, and spiritual growth to see lives transformed by the gospel.
Preaching, programs, ministries, and budget decisions should advance the biblical mission and vision. These should shape the culture and drive planning. Laying aside personal agendas to empower collective Kingdom service fosters church health.
Spiritual Disciplines
In addition to corporate worship, the church should promote personal spiritual disciplines like Bible reading, prayer, fasting, scripture memory, personal worship, and family devotions. Spiritual growth resources, Bible studies, accountability partners, and events create a culture of biblical discipleship.
Church leaders should model and teach spiritual disciplines critical for maturity. Testimonies should share how God works through the ordinary yet essential habits of the Christian life. All programming should encourage deeper relationship with Christ and His Word.
Biblical Balance
Aspects like evangelism, discipleship, corporate worship, and meeting social needs should be held in biblical balance. Avoid extremes like focusing solely on outreach at the expense of doctrinal depth, or stressing theological precision without demonstrating Christ’s love.
No single issue or ministry program should dominate. Keep the diversity of the body of Christ in mind. Seek to glorify God in all things by lifting high the gospel of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
When evaluating a potential church home, look at all these areas together. No church is perfect, but a healthy church will exhibit these key attributes while continuing to grow and mature for God’s glory.