How To Chose A Church!

You might think it's odd that a church website would look at this. But it's really important.

When you arrive at university one of the many tasks to be undertaken is to find a church. Cardiff has a lot of churches and it can be a daunting challenge to find one that is not only suited to you, but is also a church that will benefit you as a Christian.

"And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25).

If you are a Christian then fellowshipping with other Christians is not an optional extra - it is needed for personal and corporate growth. Paul describes the Church as a "body" in Corinthians.

"And the eye cannot say to the hand I have no need of you"; nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you" (1 Corinthians 12:21).

This may seem obvious but some may still see fellowship as an option, not a necessity. We need one another. Our position and gifts are for the benefit of the whole body together.

Here are four areas to consider.

Be W.I.S.E.

Worship:

Is it Christ centred and edifying? Are you conscious of the presence of God? Basically, who or what are you singing about? Does it truly encourage believers or just stimulate an emotional experience?

"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth." (John 4:24)
 

Instruction:

Again is the church's teaching Christ centred and Bible based? This includes everything from the children's talk, sketches, weekly Bible studies, as well as the sermons on a Sunday morning. Moreover, is it applied to daily life?

For "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Even when the Lord points out issues in our hearts, remember:

"And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:

"My son, do not despise the chasteninq of the LORD, 
Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
For whom the LORD loves He chastens,
and scourqes every son whom He receives." " (Hebrews 12:5-6)
 

Service:

Is the church actively involved in meeting the local community's needs, primarily the need for the gospel of Jesus Christ?

"And He said to them, " Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." " (Mark 16:15)
 

Encouragement:

Is the church a place where you can fellowship with other Christians, both younger Christians who encourage with their enthusiasm, and older Christians who can give wisdom, and encouraging testimony of God's faithfulness and working in their lives?

"But exhort one another daily, while it is still called "Today", lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." (Hebrews 3:13).