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Free Chapel Church – Considerations before Membership
Posted by GuestPoster in Personal Improvement
If you’re looking for a new church, you may want to take some time to think through what your ideal church is before beginning your search. Some people look for churches that are entertaining, others for ones that feel very spiritual, and others yet for ones that are strong on intellectual teaching and doctrine. Regardless of what they think they want, most people end up staying at churches where they can share in the 3 pillars of community: life, vision, and truth.
Sharing Life
Whether the church you walk into is a Free Chapel or a traditional First Baptist church, you’ll most remember if you felt welcome or not. It will be obvious even on your first visit if people in a church don’t like or care about each other. Unfortunately strong friendships are not always indicative of a church that knows how to welcome and integrate visitors. You’ll need to ask yourself some honest questions like the following to evaluate your opportunity to really become part of the shared life of any church:
- Are there small groups or other gatherings where you can meet people?
- Do strangers regularly introduce themselves to you?
- Do you feel comfortable talking with the people you meet in the church?
- Is fellowship a priority? Is space created for relationships through church fun activities and shared meals or events?
- Do you have enough in common with people in the church to share and connect with the ups and downs of each other’s lives?
Inspiration: Truth and Vision
It’s important to consider the relational aspect of the church, but you can build relationships in a social club. Church is primarily about being inspired to become a more holy, godly person. A church that does this well will be both committed to knowing the truth about God (even the unpleasant, confusing parts of his character) and have a vision for living out that truth. To join in with that aspect of the church, you’ll need to take the time to read through the church’s doctrinal positions. Discuss anything you are unsure about with the church leadership. Good leadership will be humble and willing to discuss your concerns, but also certain about what they believe. You should leave discussions with them feeling like their primary goal is to help you know God better, not convert you to their way of thinking. Getting involved in a ministry that you are interested in is also an important part of becoming part of a faith community. It is easiest to get involved in a ministry that you are passionate about. Does this church offer those kinds of opportunities? A true faith community will include all three of these aspects and through them you walk with God will grow.
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