On Searching for A Church Home

In the past few weeks we have begun the endeavor of searching for a congregation to call home. I have spent much time in thought and prayer on what exactly we are searching for. In my mind, a picture has begun to form. Please understand that I know that all congregations have flaws and are all human. I know there is no such thing as a "perfect church" (except through Christ). But as I search, I believe these are the things that have come to matter most to me and the things for which Clay & I are searching.

1. A church who is convicted fully that Jesus is the son of God; That Jesus lived on earth, that he died for our sins & that he was resurrected by the power of God so that we might walk with Him. And this church must hold this out as the one & only gospel. A church that knows Jesus is "the way, the truth and the life and that the only way to the father is through him." (John 14:6)

2. A church that recognizes that without this gospel, life is hopeless; That we have zero chance of being reconciled with God without His grace and the sacrifice of Christ. (I Corinthians 15:1-2)

3. A church that is passionate about loving God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength & loving others because of this love for God and the love He has for us. (Mark 12:29-31)

4. A church who strives in all things to look like Jesus, to the world and to each other. This should show through:
A. Their actions and service in the community - they should be
recognized by the community around them for their actions and
their love.
B. Their leadership - The leadership should model Christ through
their love, their shepherding, their passion for spiritual growth
in the body & just generally looking like Jesus.
C. Their budget - it reflects what is most important to the church
and their willingness to "put their money where their mouth is".

5. A church where freedom in Christ is embraced and the mission of Christ always trumps the traditions of man. A place that takes seriously "being all things to all men that some may be saved" (I Corinthians 9:20-22)

6. A church where we can engage and have an impact on the Kingdom of God. A church that needs what Christ has to offer through us. (Romans 12:3-7)

Just my thoughts.