I recently received an Email from a ministry friend, expressing the dilemma of a family, experiencing an increasingly common frustration with the irrelevance and shallowness of their otherwise satisfying local church. Amber and her family had been at their church five years. They enjoyed the congregational worship experience every Sunday. The people were friendly. Bible verses were sprinkled through the sermon. But the pastor didn’t seem to be addressing what was happening in the world around her. Nothing in the activities of the church even attempted to show interest in what her kids were facing in school. She heard about a simple test you can ask your pastor to fill out online to find out what your church really believes and what they actually plan to teach on.  She thought, “No problem—my pastor won’t mind.”  But when she and her husband used the website to send an email, their pastor dodged it. 

Excuses followed: “We’re not political.” “This is too controversial.” “We don’t want to offend anyone.”

That’s when Amber and her family realized their church wasn’t willing to stand firm on biblical convictions – some very important Bible truths. It was foggy. In fact, she realized that in the 5 years she’d been there, her pastor had never once preached on a moral issue like abortion, homosexuality, or transgenderism — difficult issues for sure… but issues that are plaguing the culture and leading kids astray. She wondered what they were teaching her kids in the Junior High group. Doesn’t God’s Word actually address all of this? Why then would the pastor not preach on it?

Fog in the pulpit leads to fog in the pews. But where would she find a better church? She didn’t want to spend another 5 years at another compromising church.

Well, Amber isn’t alone. People need a way to find good churches.  Every month, over 1.7 million people search for a church with Internet search engines.  They’re mostly parents. So, that’s possibly 5 million people looking for clarity in the spiritual input for their families.

If you are attending a good church, shouldn’t families like Amber’s be able to find your church?

There was a time in American society past, when you could pretty well expect that most all law-abiding citizens were at least agreeable with the concept that the Western world had a healthy respect for God, the Bible, and what was universally regarded as Christian morality, as based on the Ten Commandments.

Between 1944 and 2011, more than 90% of Americans believed in God. While the vast majority of U.S. adults still believe in God today, the 81% who do is down six percent from 2017… the lowest on record with the Gallup polling data. https://news.gallup.com/poll/393737/belief-god-dips-new-low.aspx.

As of 2025, polling data suggested that while a majority of Americans identify as Christian, the depth and practice of their faith vary significantly. For instance, 80% of Americans identified as Christians in a 2002 survey, but only 75% of those strongly believed in the Trinity.  Only 66% expressed daily gratitude for what they feel God is doing in their lives. Additionally, while many Christians hold core beliefs, like the importance of prayer and the Bible’s authority about truth, there is a notable gap between belief and practice, with only 28% regularly studying the Bible for guidance. See Gallup’ website: https://news.gallup.com/poll/1690/religion.aspx

In recent years, since the great scamdemic of 2020, the vast majority of churches caved in to the governmental bullying of churches. Churches were specifically demanded to restrict attendees from gathering, while certain other public businesses like abortion centers had no restrictions.  Many thinking people began looking for alternatives. The growing collapse of public confidence in traditionally trusted sources of information like the news media has become obvious. Many people have awakened to the reality that other respected institutions of education, professional organizations and whole industries have been deeply corrupted by the love of money and power. Even long-established church organizations have suffered declines in adherence, as well as attendance because of a loss of trust.

Besides the fundamental beliefs of local congregations of believers, what do you suppose are some of the most frequently asked questions that people want to know these days about the values of a local church?  Before I share with you some ways you can find local churches that might meet your expectations, it’s a good idea for you to sit down with your family and discuss what’s really important to you about joining the activities of any organization where your family’s future could literally be altered in very significant ways – good or bad – depending on your decision whether or not to participate.

7 Key Reasons People Choose a Church

For most people, decisions about things like where to attend church can be very subjective, and also very easily manipulated through emotional strategies. It’s a good idea to list your own criteria that I’ll talk about just ahead, but first, take a look at what one reputable Christian research group found.

According to the Pew Research organization’s study on the behavioral patterns of church attendees, the respondents noted seven key reasons for choosing a church. They could give more than one reason, but let’s take a look at those top seven: [https://outreachmagazine.com/features/20927-choose-church.html]  [also see articles like this at the Pew Research website: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2018/08/01/why-americans-go-to-religious-services/ ]

1. Quality of Sermons (83%) – well, this makes sense …

The importance of what’s heard from the pulpit is the number 1 criteria for those looking for a church home. However, if we think about it, don’t you think the number one priority should be the sense that the congregation is regularly experiencing the refreshing and edifying PRESENCE OF GOD? It’s really the overall experience of regular gatherings that includes corporate worship and interaction with others as well as being encouraged and challenged by Scripture-based messages that are heard from the pulpit.

2. Feeling Welcomed by Leaders (79%)

In small congregations, pastors and staff should take the lead in welcoming guests, but if they are sincerely discipling their members to warmly engage with new people, then everyone will experience a transferable dynamic that relieves the leadership from unnecessary pressure to perform.

3. Style of Services (74%)

Every church defines its “style” by a wide range of criteria. Visitors comparing with past pleasant or unpleasant church experiences can make this reason very subjective. If you’re not too emotionally damaged by a bad church experience in your past, you might be surprised how you might actually grow to like an unfamiliar style.

4. Location (70%)

You need to decide what the limits of your commute to church can be. But if you really want to experience the dynamic vitality of the family of God in the local congregation, you’ll want to consider how important it is for you to participate in activities besides those on Sunday mornings.

5. Education for Kids (56%)

Families with children still at home understandably make this a high priority. As you consider this, you should also consider your own personal involvement in your children’s spiritual input, both at home as well as within the programs of your church. Your personal connection with your own children means more than any church program can ever provide.

6. Having Friends/Family in the Congregation (48%)

If you have pleasant relationships with others at a new church, even if they’re brand-new friends, this will have a big impact on whether or not you continue to attend the church. That’s why it’s essential to attend some activities of the church that interest you. Get to know some of the people there. Find some newer members who can easily relate to you as a newcomer.

7. Availability of Volunteering Opportunities (42%)

People today, want to get involved in enjoyable activities with others. If you see that there are opportunities in the church to get involved quickly, you are more likely to continue with that church.

There’s another reason you should always consider with any prayer for personal direction.  Ask God to guide you in ways that transcend all the rational and objective reasons about the church you choose to attend. Sometimes, all the positive reasons for you to make a particular choice are completely irrelevant. God may have something very special that He wants to accomplish through your providential discovery of a particular church that doesn’t quite align with all the criteria you’ve written on your list.

When you set out to find a faithful Bible-based church, here’s a summary checklist to guide your search:

1. Accept the fact that you won’t find the perfect church. You may have heard it said that if you ever do find the perfect church, don’t go there because you’ll mess it up. Every church will have its issues. If you’re a perfectionist, try resisting the temptation to inspect everything microscopically, and then cross off an option at the first sign of any problem.  This is not like buying a used car.  It could be, that after you attend for several months, showing that you’re working at letting God constantly stretch you and improve your godly testimony, that God will eventually give you opportunities to use your unique gifts in the church group in ways that make it a better witness for Christ to the community.
2. Accept that all churches have strengths and weaknesses. You might find one with great teaching but boring community. You might find one with energizing community, but the teaching is a little weak. You might find one with both, but there are primary and/or secondary issues you find problematic. You have to decide if you want to be the catalyst to make a difference to foster positive improvement, so that way you’ll be motivated to patiently participate in the effective blessing of the church to the local community.
3. A church is primarily a group of Jesus-followers who have meaningful healthy relationships with one another in a particular geographical place. While good Bible teaching is really important, there are so many options for good Bible teaching out there. If you find what you determine is a good church but the teaching is a little weaker than you’d like, join up and then listen to other teachers during the week.
4. Decide what your must-haves and deal-breakers are. It might help to do some research on some denominations so you can easily rule some out, or put some on the list to investigate.
5. Pray and ask God to lead you to the local body of believers that is right for you. The joy is when you discover the fulfillment of what you can give to them, and not just what you get from them.

Find a church that is focused on Jesus. Find a church that challenges its body to love God, love their neighbor, and to pick up their cross daily. It’s wonderful to discover how God works in your life to make you a complimentary part of a local church body, even if you have to move near one. That way you don’t have to be driving two hours once a week just to attend a church outside your local community.

I’ve been personally blessed for most of my long life to live in relatively small communities. There… I’ve been privileged to be part of relatively small churches. That’s where I could develop meaningful close friendships where we could experience heart-felt fellowship… which is the Greek word “koinonia” in the Bible.  I’ve seen churches split over controversial things, but thankfully, I’ve never had to personally endure the pain of a church split or suffer the over-bearing behavior of leadership that was exclusive rather than collaborative.  Unfortunately, many large churches in big cities can tend to be more preoccupied with a consumer-focused Christianity, rather than a truly congregational co-operative experience that is more aligned with the “Ekklesia” that’s patterned in the New Testament.

What really defines a Local Biblical Ekklesia?

There’s a good reason why Jesus chose the word “Ekklesia” to denote His family that He would build.

Jesus said He would build His Ekklesia (Matt 16:18).  It doesn’t mean any of the characteristics that most anyone you know would naturally associate with a church.  He didn’t say he would build a church building… He would have used the word ‘synagogue.’  He didn’t use any word to describe an institution or religious organization. He just said He would build His Ekklesia. And that’s simply a divinely assembled family that congregates together regularly to carry out the mission of our Heavenly Father – bringing Messiah’s Redemption to a broken world. Through that Ekklesia family, He brings all the attributes of His kingdom into the communities where we dwell.  That’s why smaller is typically better. It takes time to develop relationships into a functional assembly of believers.  They see one another as genuinely fitted family members of Christ’s body in a local congregation.  They learn to love one another. As they discover how their unique giftings complement one another, they discover how to patiently mature together and share their burdens with one another. That’s what develops the characteristics that distinguishes, to the world of pagans around us, the sweet fragrance of agape love for one another. You don’t get that from a “church” that gets all its ques from an institution that must have strict conformity to a man-made system of by-laws. Yes, policies are necessary for any association of human beings… but when the local body of believers sees themselves as Messiah’s Ekklesia, devoted to following the Bible based heartbeat of the Chief Shepherd of their faith in Him alone, all the trappings of manmade “Christianity” become almost insignificant.

You can join all kinds of special interest clubs that can be lots of fun to do all sorts of activities together. But imagine joining a loving family willing to step into their divinely appointed mission to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the community where they live. Finding a local church that’s willing to pursue that kind of meaningful expression of living for Jesus is amazingly compelling. And it’s led by people who take Jesus’ words to heart… ““If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35).

It’s true that you could be stuck out in the wilderness somewhere with no church.  But if you’re there, all you need is the Holy Spirit’s guidance to one other person. Search the Scriptures together. Pray together… and you probably know the result. What did Jesus say in Matthew 18:20?

“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”

What are The Top Reasons to Go to Church?

In the busy-ness of modern life with all its pressures and distractions, it’s not uncommon for believers to sometimes get discouraged about attending church. Let’s not make our difficulties an excuse for “forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” with other believers. (Hebrews 10:25).  Sure… there can be logistical hindrances that prevent your personal attendance to gathering with other believers. But if you do have options to shared times of Bible study, prayer, and meaningful fellowship, think of all the blessings that enrich your life from gathering together, even in the simplest kind of setting.

If you’re searching for a deeper connection with God, going to church can provide a sense of belonging and purpose with lots of opportunities for spiritual growth and service.  Imagine being uplifted and even motivated by weekly worship, forming meaningful relationships with fellow believers, and positively impacting your community.  Here are some reasons why going to church is worth your time and commitment.

1. Experience the Power of Corporate Worship

One of the primary reasons to attend church is to worship and praise God alongside other believers. Through singing, praying, and studying scripture, individuals can come together to lift their voices in adoration and gratitude to the Lord. 

David mentioned the evangelistic attraction of honest worship. “I will praise You, Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations” (Psa. 57:9). When God’s people experience the presence of God, when they meet God, engaging the heart, lives are changed, and consequently, lost people are drawn into God’s presence as well. The unbeliever wants what the believer has. The world sits up and takes notice.

2. Dive Deeper into the Word of God

Another essential of assembling with others in church is the opportunity to learn and study the Bible. Pastors and others provide biblical teaching and guidance. That helps everyone better understand and apply God’s word to their daily lives. 

Through sermons, small group studies, and other educational opportunities, people can deepen their knowledge and relationship with God. Finding a doctrinally sound church that emphasizes teaching God’s word is priceless.

3. Building Strong Relationships With Like-Minded People

One of the most significant benefits of going to church is connecting with a community of like-minded people who share your values and beliefs. This provides a sense of belonging and purpose… and that can be difficult to find in today’s world.  Attending activities in a church can deepen those relationships with meaningful fellowship and support that can last a lifetime.

4. Finding Help and Encouragement in Times of Need

Attending a Christian church can also provide individuals with guidance and support in times of need. Pastors and church leaders are often trained to counsel those struggling with personal or spiritual issues. 

During difficult times, the church community can be a big encouragement and comfort. The relationships you build in the church community can be a matchless source of help and strength when faced with a challenge or crisis.

5. Developing a Deeper Understanding of Faith and Self

Spiritual growth is a precious result gained from attending church.  Through the study of the Bible and the guidance of those in your church, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their faith and their personal walk with God. Participating in the sacraments of baptism and communion can also serve as powerful markers of personal growth and commitment to one’s faith.

6. Making a Positive Impact on the World

Local churches can also be a catalyst for individuals to share their blessings with others to make a positive impact on the world. People can make a difference in their local communities and beyond by participating in a variety of meaningful humanitarian and gospel outreach opportunities. Plus, it always feels good to know that you’re being used by God to help transform your generation.

7. Connect with God in a Personal Way

Prayer and personal spiritual enrichment should be central to every genuine church. Whether it’s in quiet moments of reflection, regular prayer groups, or corporate prayer meetings, the church provides a space for people to connect with God. Every church experience is unique. So, it’s up to us all to find a church that helps us draw closer to God in a personal way.

8. Invest in the Next Generation

Many churches offer programs and activities specifically designed for children and youth, such as Sunday school, youth groups, and children’s church. These programs provide a safe and nurturing environment for kids to learn about God and grow in their faith. 

Letting children and youth attend church can be an extremely valuable investment in their future. It helps equip them with spiritual tools they need to become mature and responsible adults.

9. Express Your Faith Through Creativity

Many churches integrate music and artistic expression into their worship services. This allows people to express their faith through creativity. These elements can add depth and beauty to the worship experience, from choir music to drama productions.

10. Expand Your Understanding of Christianity

Many churches offer adult classes and studies for those looking to expand their understanding of God’s Word and deepen their faith. These can range from in-depth Bible studies to Christian history and theology classes.

11. Share Your Faith with the World

Many churches also prioritize missions and outreach. They offer opportunities for people to share their faith with those in need worldwide.

13. Find Help and Healing

Some churches provide counseling and support services for those in need. From pre-marital counseling to grief support groups, these services offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to work through personal challenges and find healing.

How to Find a Good Church

To find a good church, start by praying. Ask God for guidance. This is a crucial step in the process. Seek counsel from a godly pastor or elder.  They can provide valuable insights and advice. Consider the church’s teachings.  Ensure they align with the Bible.  Look for a church where Scripture is treated as the highest authority and where the gospel is clearly presented.

Evaluate the church’s community and fellowship, ensuring it is welcoming and supportive. A good church should foster a sense of belonging, encouraging members to grow in their faith. See if the church has a heart for reaching out to non-Christians. Does it offer opportunities for service and ministry?

Use online resources and church directories to find potential churches in your area. Websites like The Gospel Coalition, 9Marks.org, and MyChurchFinder.org can help you identify churches that align with your beliefs. Visit the church in person to get a feel for the environment and the congregation.

Finally, trust in God’s guidance and be patient with the reality that no church is perfect, but strive to find one that is a good fit for you and your family.

Finding the right church may take time, but with prayer and discernment, you will find a community where you can grow in your faith and serve others.

Lastly, if you want to find a church willing to inform their congregation of the dangers of “Woke-ism” check out a new online ministry directory called My Church Finder.

How to find a non-WOKE church when your church goes WOKE? By Neil Mammen

My Church Finder (mychurchfinder.org) will help you find a Church that genuinely fills the Biblical and Spiritual needs of your family and community. It identifies Pastors and Churches aligned with the simple, pure, and unadulterated Gospel of Jesus; who activity teach about the dangers of WOKEISM; and who are working to change our nation’s laws to line up with God’s Moral laws.

“Wokeism” and Marxism are antithetical to the Gospel. 

The intersection of faith and culture is a subject of intense debate. Some pastors have dramatically pivoted to cultural “syncretism.” They compromise the purity of the Gospel to “harmonize” with the ever-changing whims of a demonic worldly culture. Syncretism corrupts the Gospel, and makes people in some churches question their faith to the point of “deconstructing” it. 

Any theology rooted in Marxism is a disaster for people seeking Truth. So, how can you protect yourself and your family from being hijacked by a Church that’s become “woke”? Intense focus on the clear Gospel is key! Paul’s letter to believers in Galatians 1:8 and 9 are serious and bold on this. Staying in a woke church just feeds the enemy of Biblical faith.

With our Faith at stake, a new website has been launched to help you steer clear of “woke” church trends. It enables you to find a Biblical Church without subjecting your family to despicable woke nonsense, preached from pulpits that you might be inclined to visit.

If you already go to a biblically faithful church:

Use the link —  this link  — in today’s transcript to send your pastor an email asking him to fill out a survey on where his church stands on key issues.  Then they’ll list your church so those looking for a good church can find you.

This talk by Tom Wadsworth about elders of the Ekklesia is really relevant to this discussion about churches.

Elders of the Ekklesia: The Role of Elders in Early Christian Assemblies

  Tom Wadsworth https://youtu.be/IkNB8BXTgbM?si=LsPHjsJgXP2sv56v

In this 54-minute video, Dr. Wadsworth shares his research as he responds to listener questions about the role of elders (and pastors) in first-century Christian gatherings. Where did the idea of “elder-led churches” come from? What did these elders do? What was their relationship to the role of pastors and bishops? How did the idea develop of having a single leader over a church? Dr. Wadsworth offers “four key findings” that illustrate a stark difference between first century churches and modern churches, along with six ideas of “Where we go from here.”