How to recognize a biblical Church?

First, Consider the model of the early church found in Acts 2:42-47, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

 For us to recognize a biblical church, we must understand God’s purpose for the church—the body of Christ—in general. There are at least two outstanding truths about the church. First, “the church of the living God [is] the pillar and foundation of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). Second, Christ alone is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:22; 4:15; Colossians 1:18).

In regard to the truth, the local church is a place where the Bible (God’s only Truth) has complete authority. The Bible is the only infallible rule of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:15-17). Therefore, when seeking a church to attend, we should look to find one where, according to biblical standards: 

the pure gospel is preached, sin is condemned, church discipline is being exercised, worship is biblical, which is not man centered or based on emotionalism, the sacrament of the Lord’s supper is not taken lightly, and prayer is made unto the Lord. 

In regard to the second truth about the church, Christians should attend a local church fellowship that declares Christ’s headship in all matters of doctrine and practice. No man, whether pastor, priest, or pope, is the head of the church. All men are sinful and die. How can the living church of the living God have a dead head? It cannot. 

The founder and Lord of the church said: ‘’I will build my church, and the gates of hades shall not prevail against it’’. Therefore, Christ is the church’s one supreme authority, The great shepherd of the sheep, and all church leadership, gifts, order, discipline, and worship are appointed through His sovereignty, as found in the Scriptures.

Once these two fundamental truths are set, the rest of the factors (buildings, activities, programs, location, etc.) are merely a matter of personal preference. Before attending a church, some research is necessary. Doctrinal statements, purpose statements, mission statements, or anything that will give insight into what a local church believes should be carefully examined. Nowadays people will choose which church body to attend based on what the building and attendance look like, or their preferred style of music, the size of the parking lot, children programs, various activities, entertainment and more. Very few people choose a church based on what they believe regarding the Bible, God, the Trinity, Jesus Christ, the gospel, godly leadership, sin, and salvation.

 Church evaluation must be based on the principles outlined above.

 In summary ask yourself these basic questions about any local church: Is the Bible held as the only authority? Is Christ exalted as head of the church? Does the church focus on teaching the whole counsel of God ? are you led to worship God in spirit and truth? What types of ministries does the church involve itself in? Is the pulpit message biblical and evangelical? How is the fellowship? 

Finally, never forget that no church is perfect. At best, it is still filled with saved sinners whose flesh and spirits are continually at war. You are simply joining a group of saved sinners. 

Also, do not forget the importance of prayer. Praying about finding a biblical church  to attend is crucial throughout the decision-making process.