A good church is made up of committed individuals and families. In the churches I have joined, there has always been a core group of people who have been committed to the ministry. The leadership could always count on them to fill in to teach a class, visit a shut-in, or help with a project. But is that all there is to commitment? Is it just a willingness to do whatever you are asked? While such dedication is exemplary, the Bible defines commitment by the object of the commitment.

In his book, More Than Spectators, Paul W. Downey devotes an entire chapter to answering the question, “How do I find a good local church?” He writes about the differences between man-centered and God-centered ministries before concluding with three helpful points about commitment.

Practical Characteristics of a Committed Membership

1. They are committed to the truth (2 Tim. 3:14).
2. They are committed to holy living (2 Tim. 3:17).
3. They are committed to one another (John 13:35).

While not exhaustive, these are good qualities to look for when searching for a local church. But we ought not to look for total perfection. Every church will have strengths and weaknesses just as individual Christians do.

When you have to look for a new church, you will not find a perfect one. Every church is made up of people at variouos stages of spiritual growth, and none of them are flawless. But some churches are better than others, and you should try to find a good one.

With that in mind, has another question popped into your head? Sure, its easy to see the need for these qualities in a local church. But what about me? Am I committed in each of these areas? Am I a biblical, godly, and loving Christian?