Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16) After this confession, Jesus spoke about building His church.
So when we discern a church, the first thing we should examine is not its outward appearance. A cross on the building, a large congregation, a beautiful church, a famous pastor, good reviews, or even the fact that our friends attend there cannot by themselves prove that a church is biblical.
The most important question is this: What does this church believe and teach about God and Jesus Christ according to the Bible?
A biblical church believes that there is one God, and that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are the Triune God. It believes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died on the cross for our sins, rose again, and that He is the only way of salvation.
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
A biblical church also accepts the Bible as the Word of God, believes in the work and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and teaches that Jesus Christ will come again, that there will be judgment, and that eternal life is real.
But a church should not stop with correct doctrine alone. Through the Word of God, believers should be transformed. As they grow in faith, they should learn to turn away from sin, love others, forgive, become humble, and pursue holiness. The fruit of the Holy Spirit should gradually become visible in their lives.
The early church had the same foundation. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42) They sought to live according to God’s Word.
God may also answer prayer and confirm the gospel through healing, signs, and wonders. But signs and wonders themselves are not the final standard of truth. When we hear a new teaching, we should test it by Scripture.
False teaching does not always begin by openly rejecting the whole Bible. It may still speak about Jesus and quote Scripture, but gradually it can change the center of the gospel.
Does it introduce any other divine being alongside the one true God? Does it present another way of salvation besides Jesus Christ? Does it change or deny His death, resurrection, or saving work? Does it place a person’s revelation or authority above Scripture? And does it ultimately lead people toward Christ?
A good church does not bind people to a leader or an organization. It teaches people to believe in Jesus according to Scripture, to love Him more, and to become more like Him.
If we know these standards clearly, we will be better able to recognize a healthy church and stand firm when false teaching comes.
And one final question: What do you think is the most important doctrine of the Church?
Please share your thoughts in the comments.
