What does the church do?

By Carter On May 12, 2008 · Leave a Comment · In Sermons

Churches are involved in all kinds of different ministries and activities. Are they all legitimate? How do I evaluate whether or not a church is right for me? When we look for a church we often approach it as a consumer and look for a church the way we might look for any other service provider. Which one has the programs and services that meet my needs and desires? Which one has people like me in it that I can connect to? Which one will be best for my kids? Etc. This approach, however, assumes the church is merely a product of our own design. When the protestant reformation started, men did not leave because the church wasn’t addressing their needs. Martin Luther was left by the church. He was left because he tried to bring reform to some erroneous practices. When others joined Luther and formed churches outside of the one established, it forced them ask “what are the marks of a true church?” Matthew 16 uncovers the flaws in our typical approach and provides us with the answers we seek.