How to choose a GOOD church! 10 TIPS!

[@abigailgarcia3599]

It’s really hard to find a good church these days as they’re all very worldly.

[@alicehong7809]

Abigail Garcia Too true.

[@maryflorio2268]

The One, Holy Catholic, apostolic Church is the answer

[@IdratherbeinHobbiton]

@@maryflorio2268 no.

[@kapnkerf2532]

That's why I always search for a church in the outer planes of existence. Sure, you'll run into a few multi-eyed monsters and rivers of acid. But if you have courage, a good magic sword and a shield of resist elements, you will will find the temple you seek.

[@KinoTechUSA69]

@@maryflorio2268 as long as it's of the east... not Rome.

[@ronnydee2]

We attended a church were the pastor always preached from the Word but twisted it to prosperity, prosperity, prosperity. We left.

[@dr.dermixgirlmd7479]

Amen! God protects, directs, protects- His job isn’t to collect checks. The prosperity gospel is a blight on the true church.

[@dontbother8373]

Well then he obviously wasn't preaching from the word. He was doing what all Protestants do, preaching their personal interpretation of the word. Protestantism is merely relativism. There's no truth in it, just assumptions.

[@Odo-so8pj]

@@dontbother8373 Here we good again with the C arrogance. 🙄 before you pick the speck out of your brothers eye go and deal with the log in your own. Prodestants are well aware of what's happening in their churches. C are blissfully ignorant.

[@lmorter7867]

You are a hidden KZbin gem. Great advice! 👍🏼

[@MikeWinger]

Thank you!

[@devoted72]

Mike's not hidden anymore praise Jesus. Honestly, at first, thought he was being sarcastic and actually liked some errors I've since found he does not. Whew!! Just subscribed and much appreciate all his disclaimers. And, wise teaching. Mike if ya read this: Thank you for serving our Lord I appreciate your humor and humility.

[@magnarbremnes4249]

​@@MikeWingerThanks for your great advice!! I pastor a small church. Is it possible for me to obtain a transcript of this to make available to all in the church? (Some have no access to the internet or yiutube)

[@pinkdaisy8948]

@@magnarbremnes4249 In the grey description box under the video, click "more" and scroll way down until you see "show transcript" and click that. It will appear on the right of the video. Hope this helps!

[@LaTasiaspeaks]

This was a great list. Only thing missing, is pray. We should always pray and ask God where the Lord is sending us.

[@dr.dermixgirlmd7479]

Amen!! This is why I am no longer Catholic. The Catholics I grew up with didn’t seem to know the Word. Those that attended truly biblical churches could quote scripture and seemed so strengthened by the Word of God; it was inspiring. That’s what I wanted, and I prayed to find a place where I could find it. So glad that I did. Now I have a walk with Christ that is alive and real in my life.

[@johnyang1420]

Well...in Catholic church you can participate in the Eucharist which is the real presence of the body of Christ! It doesnt get more alive than that! Before you ditch Catholicism, check out Why We Are Catholic by Trent Horn. You might like it! God bless!

[@H-townAV]

Excellent! Been church-hopping for a few years, spouse would get “offended” and then we’re off to something else. Now that I’m widowed and almost 65, it’s time l settled down. Thanks so much!

[@jesusiskingofmyheart]

Were you able to find a home church?

[@EuropaChronicles]

Ha! I’m coming to this video from the future, it’s great seeing Mike’s early work. I love the BibleThinker jingle at the beginning! Thank you Pastor Mike for all the time, effort, and love that you’ve put into your channel and helping people like me develop skills to better understand God’s Word.

[@davidwalker5274]

The timing of this video was awesome. My wife and I are looking for a church in the city we just moved to. Great to keep these things in mind as we keep looking.

[@Goodtogo4567]

I would look for a church that recognizes Him in the breaking of the bread.

[@StellaW]

This was so helpful for me, since we are in the search of a new church. Thank you!

[@joycewright5386]

Thank you, now I know I chose a wonderful church!

[@_everykneewillbow6417]

6 years later watching this mike! And I watch you today! You are so gifted in teaching its like GOD knew exactly what he was going to do with you!!

[@jtothee713]

This is quite the task; finding a good church. It becomes difficult b/c what is said can be polished and made to sound biblical. However, the things that are only seen by multiple visits and experiences are harder to judge. Each church has a culture.- even the most legalist church will say all the right things (except that they are legalist). Some churches preach the word yet the congregation has a 'christian club' culture and friend 'circles' that excludes outsiders. I've experienced both. It is a tough task indeed and unfortunately may require spending some life seasons in bad ones to best understand what the good ones are.

[@kennethmacgregor6427]

Great video. Thought I would add a comment... Does the church place a priority on corporate prayer? I have been attending a church for a few months and observed there is no time set aside in the morning service on Sunday for prayer. No Sunday evening service, no mid week prayer service or Bible study. Church prayer requests are shared via a weekly email and people rarely share prayer requests or pray for one another at the church property. Starting to sense in my spirit something is not right

[@SunblushStarfish]

This is so helpful. Have left a VERY weird church and been struggling to find a good church. This is going to help me, thank you.

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

Our was weird and they hid it well until last year both the Pandemic and rioting over the summer brought out their true feelings and control. We were shocked…

[@scottyfleming2203]

Biggest challenge I have as a newer Christian… it saddens me. Everything around my house is awful. I’m now venturing to 20 minutes outside my area now.. so tough

[@GrammaPeachysKitchen]

I Church hopped off and on for many years. And then one day up out of the blue the thought suddenly popped into my head to interview churches instead of going for a month or two to decide if it could my church home. So for several years I quit going to church and interviewed churches instead. Your 10 questions are very similar to what I came up with for my interviews. I am happy to say that several months ago I found a pastor who passed my interview and I started attending church. I am being baptized September 2nd (I was baptized many years ago but feel a strong need to do so again, but that's a whole different story) in a local Lake at my request. I am going to become an official member of this church and the pastor has talked to me (after several visits) about becoming a part of the Christian Board of Education and we're talking about me taking over Wednesday night youth Sunday school for 3rd through 5th grade children. This would actually be a childhood dream come true. For the first time in my life I am truly happy in the church I found and I don't feel those warning flags that told me to run like everywhere I went before. I look forward to church and being involved in church. It is a small congregation that have welcomed me with open arms. Thank you for this video. And I strongly recommend anyone looking for a church home to follow your advice and interview questions.

[@Justus272]

Hi Mike, just a suggestion, you could timestamp the list in the description to make jumping to each point super easy. Love your work man.

[@MissMarie1377]

47 seconds in and I am LOVING this! Can we please spread this message far and wide? Too many things are feelings based today and it's not a good thing

[@AJCNFHEWT]

Mike, if I could add, “Have I asked God in prayer which church I should attend?” I honestly think appealing to God to be your guide in addition to your advice is something essential.

[@Odo-so8pj]

I have, I don't think I have an answer yet.

[@Poita75]

@@Odo-so8pj He will, just keep asking, seeking & then go a knocking ...

[@albertokace4135]

you probably dont care but if you are stoned like me during the covid times you can stream pretty much all of the latest movies and series on Instaflixxer. Have been watching with my brother for the last months :)

[@coltensamir7687]

@Alberto Kace Yup, been watching on InstaFlixxer for years myself :)

[@joban4963]

I walked in on a church service in my city the other week and it was a little odd. There was a choir who sang beautifully, but that was about it. The service was very regimented, and followed exactly, even the song choice and the prayers, this old battered piece of laminated paper, which I think means they do exactly the same service every single week. It was singing, reading the apostles creed, a couple of very specific prayers which were chanted by the choir. As for the congregation, there was none. Other than myself there were no more than 6 people in the pews, all sat about as far from each other as possible. After the service the pastor and the choir immediately left. It made me think of something Jesus said about beautiful empty tombs.

[@jesusiskingofmyheart]

I've been struggling to find a home church for a year now... It's been difficult to find a church that preaches sound doctrine and is filled with true people of God. I'm not giving up. Praying the Lord leads me to the right church this year in 2023. Thank you for this video! I found it extremely helpful and encouraging 💗 God bless you.

[@zerobyte802]

Have you tried visiting a Church of Christ? YMMV from congregation to congregation but in general they’re very Bible focused.

[@mallorypagan6770]

​@@zerobyte802 doesn't Church of Christ preach no instruments for worship and that baptism is required for salvation?

[@zerobyte802]

@@mallorypagan6770 yes to both. While the instrument thing is much more of an interpretation IMO, the baptism part is very directly taught in scripture. Some CoC congregations get legalistic about it and won’t accept anyone’s baptism not done in a Church of Christ, that’s definitely not the position at my church, or the Bible. You’re not baptized into a church but into Christ, and ultimately (myself speaking here) that’s between you and God. My wife recently chose to be baptized again due to her understanding of scripture but nobody, not me, not the pastor, not the elders, nor any members ever gave her any pressure or encouragement to do so. We really like our congregation but I can say there are definitely congregations that go off the deep end into Pharisee territory… hence my YMMV comment

[@taylor7236]

This was so helpful I found a perfect church in every way BUT there isn’t anyone my age and I am attending church alone so I feel very out of place because it is small.

[@mcr5577]

Which church did God place you in? Why? Pray about what to do with that information.

[@colepriceguitar1153]

Also look for a church that has elders that meet the qualifications set forth in 1 Timothy.

[@SUMITJOHN]

Thank you, Mr. Mike. It was really helpful for me. I want to leave a church where I've been in for 6 years. The points you mentioned in the video are what my Church has been about and doing. I was one of the core staffs of my church but because of these things I confronted leaders, and they were reluctant to change and admit their mistakes regarding fundamental beliefs and character. I just wanted a confirmation because I prayed and prayed many times regarding this one because I don't want to do anything outside God's will. But still I would request you to pray for me in this situation. Thank you! God bless you and family.

[@BoondockBrony]

I think another sign of majoring in minors/weird is just a certain verse or book they are very bent on pushing. This is *very* prominent in penetcostals and dispensationalist churches. For obvious reasons, I know some of my more evangelical/non-denom brothers could also put how Reformed/Presbyterians might obsess over Romans 9 as well but that's debatable.

[@melodymomma8200]

Great video even from 5 years ago! I sure wish my husband and I could have a nice long conversation with you over dinner or something! 😂😂

[@joostbakker]

"they answer you in poetry" 😂 instantly liked the video

[@MikeWinger]

+marthaj67 I don't seem to be able to respond directly to your post. This is probably just the way your settings are on google+ or KZbin. I just wanted to say THANK YOU! You have opened my mind to a real need in the church. I'm not sure what to do about it yet but I do hope that I can at least pay more attention to special needs children and youth in our ministry. My heart goes out to your family and others in their shoes. I sincerely pray that God would show you a way to be in fellowship. If I could just offer you one idea (which you may have already considered). If I were in your shoes I think I may just look for a very small church as this might present a better environment for my kids. In a smaller church there is more room for the leaders to tailor the ministry to the needs of the group. A special needs child in a youth group of only 7 or 8 kids would likely be more easily embraced and better attended to. I would also consider simply going to the youth ministry WITH my kid. As a youth leader I can tell you that I would be fine with a parent staying with their children if there was a need so long as that parent was a decent example to the other students. As a last ditch effort I would consider hosting a group of believers (whoever I could find) to meet and fellowship, to pray and read the Bible, at my own house. I hope that you do find this comment in the mix and even if my ideas don't work for you then I am still happy to have learned something from you and had the chance to pray for you. God bless you

[@marthaj67]

Mike Winger Thank you so much, Mike. I forgot that I changed my settings. As I'm sure you know, anonymity can bring out the worst in humanity. I just decided I didn't need the aggravation of dealing with hateful people. You may not currently have any "special needs families" at Hosanna, but chances are good that you may at some point. I just felt led to leave my previous comment because (and this is alarming!) according to the CDC, about 1 in 68 children have been diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder AND about 1 in 6 children in the US have some kind of developmental disability (www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html). I'm not trying to frighten you. I just thought you might want to be prepared for the eventuality that there will be families who have kids with special needs searching for fellowship. Sometimes they need it even more than parents raising typically-developing children. Trust me....we know all about it :O/ Both of our sons have Down syndrome, but our younger son, whom we adopted as an infant, is also on the Autism spectrum. As a result of his dual-diagnosis, he is quite a bit "lower functioning" than our older, biological son, and he doesn't care for being out of his comfort zone. Anyway, we're a special case. It's doubtful that Hosanna will incorporate very many families like us into fellowship, but you never know who God will send your way :O) We have previously considered much of what you suggested, which makes me feel better. Thank you for your thoughtful reply. Maybe we will find a church to attend on Sundays for the boys, which might also have a mid-week service that my husband and I can alternate attending for fellowship, teaching, and corporate worship. It could also be that God is leading us to begin a ministry for special needs families. We live on the other coast, but if we're ever in the area, we will certainly make it a priority to visit Hosanna. Thanks again and God bless you.

[@MikeWinger]

Thank you and God bless you!

[@chloesoh537]

Mike Winger Hi I am 11 and I am afriad that my mother and I will go to different churches.What do I do? And I want to know if churches teach the same thing as other churches

[@justjosie8963]

ThingsAreToughAllOver our large community Church in my area added special needs children classes/care during services a few years ago. I would bet some of the larger churches all over are doing this.

[@Emanuel_carey]

Mike Winger hey!! What are your thoughts on the apocrypha? I have read it, and haven’t came seen any true deviation from the scriptures.

[@shaydarling3686]

So helpful! It is a scary thing to hop from church to church. When you've been malnurished for so long emotions can steer you wrong. Might I just add that we pray as we search. God Bless

[@MikeWinger]

Absolutely pray! I guess I thought that was so natural that I didn't mention it, I wish I had though.

[@kenmcnevin7920]

Shay Darling, look for a church that preaches the full gospel including repentance. A church that keeps the commandments of God including the one that begins with REMEMBER that most churches have FORGOTTEN. A church that preaches the third angels message " Come out of her my people " (out of Babylon ). A Biblical based church that is the remnant of God's seed spoken of in Rev 12:17. There is only one remnant church of God, the Bible says so.

[@jesusisthetorah3447]

You are only malnourished because you are looking without instead of within. Your answers don't reside in a building built by human hands.

[@stephenhagen234]

God wants to lead us and wants us to ask Him. (John 16:24) But we must do the asking. He promises to instruct and teach us in the way we should go (Psalm 32:8)

[@HappilyAnonymousGirl]

This was very helpful and I wish I would've seen this video sooner. I've been thinking about switching churches for awhile because I feel like I was manipulated into attending the one I've been going to. The leaders of the church offered to help me when I first started going. Every week when I tried to approach them after service to talk about that stuff, I didn't have a chance to because they "had to leave".. I stood by the pastor several times after service while she was talking to someone else and waited for a chance to talk to her, and as soon as she was done talking to them she would bolt off to go talk to someone else. Another one of the leaders who offered to help me would repeatedly say that she had to go as soon as she would see me walking towards her... A few times I was just trying to say hi and she just kept saying that she was busy and had to go. There were a few times where after she said this to me, I noticed she would walk over and start talking to people and not mention that she needed to leave until after several minutes of them talking to them about non church related stuff.. I wasn't eavesdropping or anything, I would just be walking alongside her on our way out of the building as we were saying our goodbyes. After the first day I ever went there, my pastor called me later that night and told me I was a gift to them and that they would be devastated if I stopped going there... She kept saying that over and over and telling me that they need me because they want to feel needed by someone, and if I left they would feel like they did something wrong...... With all that being said... I really appreciated the offers they made and it made me feel so hopeful and welcomed there, but I really don't appreciate them avoiding me afterwards and not following through.... It really makes me sad and also a bit angry when I think about it sometimes when I think about how good my experience was the first day verses the rest... At least I know what to look out for from now on... It just sucks though. It was a huge deal for me to be going to church again because that was the first time had ever gone alone and it took a long time for me to get up the courage to go the first time. My experience there almost makes me feel like I shouldn't have gone.. However, I know I need to attend church because it's what we're called to do, so I'll just have to count my losses and try to find the best church for me with God leading the way. I know I won't have the same experience everywhere I go, I just pray I don't have to go through a bunch of churches to find the one that's right for me. It's already hard enough for me to go by myself because I tend to stay pretty isolated and don't like crowds of people..... Thanks for reading if you did by the way. May God bless you and I hope you have a great day.

[@bearknighttcg0625]

Not sure where you are located but if you happen to be in Pennsylvania I go to a very small church that consists of about 25 to 30 people on a regular basis. I have been going there for close to 10 years in August.

[@HappilyAnonymousGirl]

@@bearknighttcg0625 That sounds like my kind of church lol. I’m glad you found it, and I found a good one to go to now. I heard about from 3 people and felt like there was a reason I kept hearing about it. So I finally went one day and it was the best decision I made last year. It felt like I had been there before when I walked in. It even looked familiar, even though I’d never been there. God is good. I’m glad we found home churches to go to. Also I appreciate the offer to attend your church! That was very nice of you! I would check it out, but I live in Texas lol. But if I ever go to Pennsylvania

[@nccrchurchunusual]

A few thots. Respectfully- Having a woman pastor is problematic for it was Eve who was deceived not Adam. We never see a woman Preacher in NT Church scripture nor was one woman chosen to write scripture- perhaps God saw we have enough load to carry. However even more problematic is expecting the pastor or preacher to personally minister to you every Sunday- there should be a team of mature men & women ministering to the saints- if you're a woman seek a mature woman and a small group that regularly meets. The preacher is One person. He is called to study the Word and Teach it, not be "serving widows"- thats where deacons should be serving. Finding a church is hard- be prayerful and choose wisely, not based on emotion.

[@MapleBar777]

Hosanna Christian Fellowship: Meet our Pastor Nathan: " Shortly thereafter, he received a vision from the Lord wherein God spoke to him and said "I've called you to the ministry."....???

[@missTteacher4th]

Thank you so much for this video!! I have lived in China the last 3 years and will be moving back to the States in July. I am so looking forward to finding a body of believers to worship and fellowship with. This list of questions to ask/think on is a wonderful help. I discovered your channel almost 2 years ago, and it has been such a blessing, help and encouragement during my time here in China.

[@JadaLynnOfChrist]

Would it be possible that anyone has the link to that song at the end.... it sounds amazing And this was an excellent and important video for you to make! Thank you and God bless you all!

[@madilin2871]

Really hope u will continue..please dont stop this cause of less fame(subscription), less revenue.. I understand as youtuber u ned to spend so much time n ofcourse we hope to be full time youtuber that can have income with. But please dont stop doing it cause honestly i can tell that what u doing really helping people..god bless you

[@PROJECT.LUKE.ONE.75]

#1 What do they believe about the Trinity, the Bible, Eternity, and Salvation? #2 How do they teach? Verse by verse or topical? Topical is easier to invite opinion. #3 Is the worship and lyrics biblical? Can you worship with a clear conscience? #4 What is the children's ministry like? Do they disciple or occupy? #5 Do they really love and follow Jesus? #6 Do they outreach? #7 Can you fellowship with them? #8 Are they weird? Do they overemphasize doctrine or non-essentials. Are they obsessed with money? #9 Can you serve? #10 Are they my best option?

[@lynnbehnke6910]

We are looking for a new church and within the denomination, all the ones we've visited have been scriptural. I so appreciate you mentioning the other things that can be weird, and that the members need to be people with whom we can fellowship, and it needs to be a place where we can serve. We are well educated, but poor. When the congregation and pastor use very poor grammar, it's distracting. (And I feel guilty and judgemental about that.) When we know we can't participate in their fun activities because we can't afford it (even though they kindly offer to pay,) it's just awkward. Sometimes I just get creepy vibes from the people. Sometimes the church has so many paid staff positions, it doesn't seem like there's room for volunteers. In our 45 years of marriage, we have left two churches--along with other members--when the teaching became strange. We were so involved in fellowship and service that it's awfully hard to try again, especially since Covid has extended our time away. Please pray that we will find a new church home.

[@roguewuulf]

Excellent points, true guidence the Lord God used you well in this. I would like to you to do a video on these preachers/pastors that do motivation services and do not actually teach the word of God from the bible. Instead the tell stories that they claim are real but are how do you know instead if it was from the Bible directly we would know it is true. I try to be a good Christian but when I hear people teaching or motivating in this manner I just get so mad and have to pray to calm down. For to me its just smokescreens to keep christians occupied and not save or feed their soul with Gods word.

[@mariembuenaventura1278]

Very helpful!Content is solid 2015. So much improvement on the video quality at 2020

[@texasskygirl7890]

I actually did email the pastor on an issue I was concerned about and needed clarification on sonething at my church. My pastor called me and we had a nice discussion and he did not tip toe around the issue. Straight forward answers are what I needed. I joined the church after this discussion.

[@ryanfischer1112]

This seems like a video for folks who know the Bible very well, what would you suggest to new Christians that are looking for a church home? How can one use use good Christian discernment without very good knowledge of scripture? Also on church hopping, what would you suggest for men and women in the military or someone that is constantly moving? At some point, it seems as getting to a point of vulnerability is essential to our walk with God and with fellow believers but it's different when you have barely enough time to plant roots.

[@Mrpachuko13]

No reply.

[@amrosh791]

Ryan, I am obviously not Pastor Mike, but I would have a couple suggestions: If you are a new Christian, start by following the one who led you to salvation, assuming it was someone you interact with on a personal level. They almost always would have a church they go to, and you can get to know the people in that one. Then as you read and study, and learn, you will be led if you should stay there. If you don't have that person, then it definitely can be difficult. But I would recommend visiting a few, and praying a lot. Listen to resources you can find that are solid and biblical. and look for the things you learn in the churches you are visiting. Good doctrine, Christ like community, love for both other Christians and the world, etc. On military families or moving a lot, It is dangerous for a person like that to not be prepared, know what they believe and what kind of church God gives them peace about. I know a few people who do that, and they do leg work, and lean on their current pastor. People in the ministry can really be helpful in counseling in a move like that.

[@marlamackiewicz4097]

I am seeing this for the first time. Thank you for this video.

[@aaronjones9785]

I have autism and struggle with the whole fellowship and church thing

[@eduardorivera3198]

Keep it up, I trust the Lord is going to place you in the right church and with the right people were you can simply flow in love for them and vice versa

[@run4cmt]

My Church too much was avoiding Worldly issues. That was not the case in the past. The entire pastoral staff turned over because of a change in leadership. I feel like I am starving to death spiritually there now. So time to find a new place.

[@Yarah777]

My Ex-Pastor had one foot in the Church and one in the World. He walked funny, and gave very bad advice.

[@MountCarmel007]

Watch "Who Changed the Sabbath" by Pastor CD Brooks

[@janlovell809]

Mike can you give a biblical based tips on when it’s time to leave a church? Love you and your kitty

[@onehappydawg]

Haha…this video from 6 years ago popped up in my feed I think it’s good you dropped all the graphics but that little high pitched voice saying “bible thinker” is a keeper 😆🤣

[@gabrielfriedmann2043]

I'm so glad that god lead me to a very biblical church when I had no discernment about everything you said ...

[@dr.dermixgirlmd7479]

Amen. Me too. I found a biblical church with a man of God leading it in truth and scripture but when I found it I had so much less discernment than I do now.

[@eliphasphiri4090]

Pray to God to lead you

[@grahammyers3197]

Or even weird like not believing in the gifts of the spirit i.e.1 Cor 14 !!

[@joshchabalaendure6223]

So helpful, thank you!

[@carbon273]

I’m getting Allen Parr vibes from this video.

[@jgoble100]

As has been said before, I would add a bit about praying for discernment, but solid list! This helps me by giving me language to what I already know when trying to help others with this question.

[@moisehermantin6532]

Actually, it was love at first sight with my current church. The first time I was there, I felt at home. It's been two years and I still am there. I agree not to decide the first time, but there are exceptions. You must ask the Holy Spirit to give you a check list of what you need and your check list must be Biblical and preferred. My church marked my 4 checks and matches the 10 things you're mentioning. Praise God

[@fabiolasalazar4544]

What church do you belong to

[@moisehermantin6532]

@@fabiolasalazar4544 are you looking for a church to call home?

[@fabiolasalazar4544]

@@moisehermantin6532 yes the church you fell in love with first sight, the church of Jesus, i have been deceived my whole life by the lds church, i am a member still because i love the members so much and wish they will wake up.

[@ethanrichard4950]

@@fabiolasalazar4544 I've been going to a baptist church, so you might try that. Although, not every baptist church is the same, my experience has been wonderful for my growing in my relationship with Jesus.

[@Bernadineheta]

In my later years, by Gods grace I believe, I have been given another chance at life. I realise I have lived my life based off my emotions!!! .. and probably in answer to prayer found your videos. Because I have recently got caught up in this newly found Sabbath COG & CASH church founded in Korea. I want to keep to worship on the Sabbath but can’t find any in New Zealand except this COG church who believe in CASH.. I hope you know what my anagrams mean. I can’t and don’t want to mention the words.... But I love the very few people I have met in these weeks of April and May

[@phyllisdevonish859]

What if I haven't found a good church??? A lot of Churches don't read Scriptures!

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

Find an online person to listen to and hand pick some Christians you meet and form a Bible Study and prayer group. We had to do that before we moved because we lived in a small town. Our Pastor went off his mental and spiritual rocker after his dad died of old age and changed ALL the doctrine of the church and no one questioned or stopped him… We ended up not being able to find another church so this was our solution until God brought us to where we live now.

[@ruekjaeg4863]

Thanks Blessings

[@SolaScriptura-n-cats]

I’m so glad you opened with the disclaimer about feelings! Great episode, Pastor Mike! Thank you! 🙏♥️ Edit: Just realized this is 8 years old. LOL Doesn’t matter! 😊

[@AString95]

#3 “Were you there (when they crucified my Lord)” by Johnny Cash is my favorite Christian song!

[@tinbash26g26]

Thanks for making this video, you have no clue how much I needed this. I've been hurt the most by the church growing up but Jesus has helped me let go and forgive them and now I find myself longing for a church to call my own. Cheers and God bless!!

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

So true! I understand and went through this too…It makes it hard to discern if a church is good or not. The list helps us focus on important things over any hang ups or how to avoid better what we experienced before.

[@simoneaux15]

I believe it’s time to leave my church. The pastor preaches from the Bible but I’m the only young person there. It’s a tiny congregation, we average around 10-13 every week. Everyone else is 50 plus. I’m 27…I need to be around other young believers but also to be in a Biblical church. Also I’m in the music ministry but we’ve just been playing videos lately. Should I leave???

[@keithwilson6060]

Here's a very good beginning filter: Mark off ALL churches which are members of the National Council of Churches. They are mostly parody "churches."

[@juanitadudley4788]

I've been in church since the womb and never heard of them. So, I checked them out online and saw their statement on racism. I wonder if they may support Critical g Race Theory and the wokeness infecting so many churches and religious organizations today. I don't support either, but I think I have more of a problem with churches with black lives matter signs than rainbow flags.

[@busybody1474]

OR.... you could do what I did, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to the perfect Church, and he certainly did !!! 🙄

[@lecourageuxame100]

busybody1 same!

[@zenpapi1185]

Yeah and the Holy Spirit has given us the WORD of God, and a lot of these guidelines are biblical

[@adammeade2300]

Does your church teach you to be condescending to good advice? 🙄

[@zenpapi1185]

Adam Meade if you find my comment condescending you need to spend a little more time in your word or at your church

[@adammeade2300]

Exonerable XL I don’t have a church, but I do spend my own time in the word everyday, as well as listening to sound scriptural teachers throughout the week. Yes, the Spirit will absolutely guide us to a good family if we learn to be good discerners, but there’s nothing wrong with heeding the advice in this video, either. If I mistook your tone, I apologize.

[@allisonkirk6686]

This has really helped!! I'm glad to know that there are videos being made to help a new believer like me. A little over a year sense I rededicated my life to the Lord as an Adult! I will definitely be checking out more of your videos!!

[@MikeWinger]

Thank you and God bless you!

[@colorful7outlook717]

Allison Kirk Very Respectfully With All Due Respect Good Gods Day F💡💡d For Thought: We Must First Make Sure That We Are Properly In The Body of Christ.... There is no Scripture In The Bible Where God3 Commands That We Simply State That We Except Jesus As Ones Lord And Savior And He3 Receives Anyone As His3 Child Without Following and Obeying "ALL" Commands From God3 To Be His3 Disciple. God3s Plan of Salvation ●Hear: Matthew 13:9 (NKJV) 9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” ●Believe: John 3:15-1 (NKJV) 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. ●Confess: Roman's 10:9 - 11 (NKJV) 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” ●Repent: Acts 2:38 (NKJV) 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ●Must Be Baptized: Mark 16:16 (NKJV) 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. Romans 6:4 NKJV 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. ●Live A Working Faithful Life Until Death: Revelation 2:10 (NKJV) 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. ●Teach The Loss: Matthew 28:18 - 20 (NKJV) 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■ 1. Find, Search (Google), Visit and Become A True Disciple of The True Body of Jesus Christ 2. THE "CHURCH OF CHRIST" Nearest You, Google to find one near you, there is a "CHURCH OF CHRIST" in almost every city in every state 3. Here (below) Is What "THE CHURCH OF CHRIST" Looks Like To Make Sure You Are At The Correct "CHURCH OF CHRIST": 4. Worships Every First First Day of The Week Which is Sunday, 5. No Instruments, Congregational Singing Only - No Choir, 6. Takes The Lords Supper Every Sunday as commanded 7. No Female Preaching, God3s Scriptures Do Not Authorize for A woman To preach 8. Ask A Male, A Man, That Is A Leader of the Congregation, a Elder or a Deacon For A Bible Study and answer to the call of The Gospel of Jesus Christ Be Baptized and Be saved for the remission of your Sins, Living Out The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18 - 20 (NKJV) ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

[@stephenhagen234]

What kind of seed does the prospective church plant in your life? Are you inspired to study the Bible more and pray more, all on your own? Does this body of believers serve God with an open heart? Are they pointing you towards a closer walk with Christ and motivate you to trust Him more? Do they genuinely love God and people in their actions or just say the words, holding to a form of religion? There are no "perfect" churches but there are good, better, and best fits and He knows where they are. Lean on Him, ask Him, trust Him!

[@danrhoda]

Great video Mike, what weight do you think being local should play, does it make sense to travel 40 or more miles or does pouring into a church that serves your community make more sense?

[@AlwaysLime]

I have this dilemma also.

[@donttrackme4851]

Worship is NOT MUSIC!!!!!! The ENTIRE SERVICE IS Worship!!!!! The music s only a PART of the service! You must re-evaluate what you consider “worship.” We must worship in spirit and in truth. Churches that equate their music ministry as the only form of worship are blaspheming the word and Spirit f God and placing themselves above prayer, scripture and sermon. The ENTIRE service is worshiping God.

[@Tribulation_Harvest]

Here is an issue I have and I would like to get your take on it. It's about worship. I take issue when the songs are not being sung directly to the Lord. Example: "I am a friend of God, He calls me friend." Well, to me, that's a song ABOUT God and my relationship with Him, but it's not a song sung directly to Him in worship. It's more like a song directed to self to make me feel good about myself. Hey, I'm a friend of God! That's not my goal in participating in worship. My goal is to worship the Creator and focus on Him, not on myself. I prefer songs that speak directly to the Lord, like "You are God alone, from before time began." I notice that when the worship is directed toward God and singing TO Him instead of ABOUT Him, the moving of the Spirit is strong.

[@MikeWinger]

I often prefer songs that sing directly to God but I also see a place for songs that sing about Him. I see two reasons why songs about God are appropriate in worship. 1- We have the example of the book of psalms containing both kinds of songs. This seems like a good enough reason to accept them. 2- I think that there is great benefit in those kinds of songs as well. They glorify God by proclaiming who He is and what He has done and they unite us in that purpose as well as teach us about Him. Now, I do think you have your finger on another issue that is worth mentioning. Some songs are man-centric instead of God-centric. I suppose that when we ask "does this glorify God?" we can separate the better songs from the rest and keep ourselves from songs that seem to put us at the center instead of God.

[@Tribulation_Harvest]

Mike Winger We can't really keep ourselves from songs that put us at the center because we have no control over what the worship team/music ministry sings. I tend to just sit down and wait for the song to end. It really destroys my worship time and I leave church frustrated.

[@MikeWinger]

Ken Souza I've been in a situation where the song that was chosen wasn't something I wanted to proclaim and affirm (even though it wasn't wrong outright) and it has been helpful for me to just take that time to pray worship to the Lord. When I stopped concerning myself with the song and just focused on worshipping my Lord it was great.

[@Tribulation_Harvest]

Mike Winger I know it seems I'm fighting you tooth and nail, but after reading your response, I question how we can effectively worship if we're trying to block out the worship team (who are using microphones) block out the loud music and block out everyone else around us singing the lyrics of the song while we try to worship on our own for that brief moment in time. I guess you have a gift that I don't have because my focusing abilities aren't that good. This is why worship time is so frustrating for me. Either I have to sing a song I don't want to have any part of, or I have try to separate myself from the body during worship in order to worship God on my own. If I'm going to be worshiping God on my own, I might as well do it at home.

[@MikeWinger]

I understand your frustration but I think you may be overreacting. I only offer what advice I think may help. I checked out the lyrics of the particular song you mentioned and nothing about it was wrong outright, it was biblical as far as the lyrics are concerned. I understand if it doesn't help you in your particular situation but it seems to me that when you move from "I don't enjoy this or that particular song" to "I may as well not attend a local fellowship" that you do yourself and other believers a disservice and it would do good to give thought to our call to seek unity and involvement in the lives of other believers (see Ephesians 4).

[@mysciences]

Excellent tips especially number one. If you've ever attended Saddleback Church in lake Forest California real easy to fall in love. It is worth going to obviously but for many it's a huge trek and can take its toll on gas$$$. Keep in mind there are over 45,000 denominations globally so not everyone believes in the same Trinity and some believe in resurrection on Paradise Earth (Matthew 5:5)

[@ak3220]

With #4 there should also be a question about what is done to keep children safe from preditors while away from their parents care. Aka...do they require two adults to take kids to the bathroom, etc...

[@saxmanjpr5092]

THANK YOU! I have been saying this for YEARS!!! This goes the same for ANYONE who is alone. There should ALWAYS be a 3rd person present for accountability even with people of the same gender since "the church is a haven for sinners!" That means gay people go to church too...and they are NOT there to repent! I can guarantee you that because I have SEEN the nasty take place "monday through friday!"

[@AlwaysLime]

It’s hard find a church that does line-by-line teaching of the Bible. Seriously. Nearly impossible. There’s 1 in a 2 hour radius around me. 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@dontbother8373]

If you go to a church merely because it makes _you_ feel good, or its what _you_ like, you're basically making church attendance a selfish endeavor and declaring Christ and His one truth a matter of personal opinion.

[@meforsure5221]

This guy is crazy he was saying compromise true 100 percent biblical teaching for what is the closest you can find. This is not what true believers are called to do. The bible says do not go the ways of this world. Yes I'm paraphrasing. Today's churches are all going the same direction as the rest of the world with there doctrines and pagan tridations. Remember going the directions of the majority did not work out for the following people. Those outside the ark during Noah's time (the majority), those at Sodam and Gamora and those who followed Moses and Aaron across the desert after captivity. These people were all part of the house hold of God. And only a very small number of these people were found worthy of carrying on in there path in life. Today's there are over 53,000 different churches in the United States. Even within there own individual denmonations they all teach different doctrines. This is not biblical, the Holy Spirit does not teach that each individual church can teach something different. If there all teaching even one single thing that is truly biblical different the not in line with 100 percent biblical truth. Take God's biblical word of 100 percent truth and run away from these false doctrine era and teachers and learn for yourselves I guarantee you'll learn more on your own than these kind of liars.

[@astrolight5000]

Wish I saw this video many years ago 😩🤦🏼‍♀️ Thanks Mike

[@purseypurslane]

They all list 'proper' authentic biblical beliefs but usually don't preach all of it, especially the sin parts -- so reading what their beliefs are online is NOT an accurate gauge of what they actually preach

[@osi4410]

You definitely know what you're talking about

[@woodshavings51]

Boaz Ofondu Not as much as you think.

[@johnyang1420]

I dont think he does! He cant trace his church back to Jesus. Catholic church can! Protestant churches were started by men! Jesus>men

[@osi4410]

@@johnyang1420 who started the Catholic church?

[@johnyang1420]

Boaz Ofondu Jesus Christ...33ad. All other Protestant churches are man made.

[@johnyang1420]

Google “107ad St Ignatius of Antioch letter to Smyrneans” where he calls all the believers members of Catholic church! Eucharist too! Sound Catholic? It is!

[@Jimbob-hj6qp]

Good stuff!! Love the shirt!

[@Mochachocalatteyaya_]

This was very helpful. I’ve been going to the same church since I was a child. Now that I’m older and More intentional about growing my relationship with God I’ve grown wiser. I no longer feel like I’m growing at my church. I’m starting to see and hear things that I don’t see in the Bible. I feel like God is telling me I need to leave that church, but I’m not sure if that’s God or the devil trying to isolate me. I just keep asking God for a sign. I live in a huge city (Chicago) there’s churches everywhere. I’m thinking I’ll just start with local churches.

[@jennifersmull1003]

Avoid asking for a sign. Ask for wisdom and discernment. And remember that if you have been a believer for a while it is time to start helping the young believers to learn to read and pull from the Word of God for themselves. Those of us who ear meat don't need to go to milk for nourishment.

[@lucienelson]

ayana sumlin “Feeling”? Check your heart and intentions

[@Fernando-qs7bl]

I hope your feeling the same way now because you were not growing, how could you if judgement has begun there. If judgement has begun there means Jesus is not there, and he may have been drawing you out like right now, if you dont believe me please read Matthew 24:15 and 1st Peter chapter 4:17,and 2nd Thesalonions 2:3+4.

[@Ampwich]

There's a few good churches around me, and am weighing the options. Want to get plugged in asap, but it's taking a bit to figure it out. I find myself getting nitpicky, like who goes there (are there people my age?), the style of preaching and so on just so I can narrow it down and decide.

[@all2gethernow846]

Its not about going to a good church, its about going to the "true Church" where they teach and put into practice all of Gods laws and commands.

[@DeeMoney-rj4rj]

Faith in Jerusalem Our Heavenly Mother ?

[@sketchbook1]

Especially (and I should point out, EXCLUSIVELY) the Commands of CHRIST-- the Law of Love and the Law of Grace. NOT the written Law, but the Living Spirit, Who gives life. "He has made us competent as ministers of a NEW Covenant--not of the Letter but of the Spirit; for the Letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." 2 Cor. 3:6

[@sketchbook1]

EMS 76 Whose sentence are you critiquing?

[@benwade7334]

Faith in Jerusalem our Heavenly Mother???? That makes my heart hurt. There is no heavenly mother, only Jesus.

[@run4cmt]

I had to leave my current church because of weak sermons and adopting a Social Justice sermon series. It was a really large Lutheran Church. So for me I was happy with Lutheran Church teaching but not how it was being applied by this mega sized church. I knew at least looking at other Lutheran Churches I was in alignment with their basic teachings. For me it was seeing if the teaching was applied every Sunday and not just a feel good experience to keep large numbers happy.

[@brendalinn1152]

It's also important to find a church that does not tolerate abuse: sexual abuse, domestic violence, harrassment, etc. etc. Many churches do. :(

[@MegaDiva1999]

very true. add racism to the list of non negotiables.

[@lucarich8711]

HEAR HEAR

[@amaqueen9012]

Let’s not leave out same Sex loving🙏🏿

[@ea-tr1jh]

@@amaqueen9012 what is "same sex loving"?

[@MenacingRabbit]

e546a 850 it means Adam with Steve instead of Adam and Eve.

[@leeroyexcavator9149]

Finding a church is very hard, I have never felt like I had a part or really belonged in any church I have attended for any long period of time. #1 because they are being lead by humans with their own ideas of how it should be run often not truly following the Bible. One major thing the pastors gravitate mostly to big money donors in the church and it doesn't take long to see the pecking order come into the light. You see blatant favoritism alot. I have yet to see any true fellowship in any church we have tried to stay at. I have been I guess church hopping in some form back and fourth from a couple or 3 churches in my community for the last 5 years due to just can't get comfortable with either one and just can't find a church where there isnt some major issue. I go to one till it gets unbearable and then move on to the other one for a while. I have come to the point in my community if I don't church hop I probably would quit church altogether!!!! The favoritism and bad attitudes, unfriendliness, or preachers wives who are control freaks who want more stage light than the pastor, or constant preaching of give $$ and you shall receive every other service!! To dry dead services with the same 15 songs from 1850 on constant repeat! We are definitely headed into end times no doubt with the attitudes of people the way they are in the church and if you mention it you are the bad guy!!

[@AdherentApologetics]

Joel Osteen should watch this lol

[@SaneNoMore]

I spent months going around my town trying to find a church where the Pastor was not a Calvinist (unlike my previous church home). This has become an important issue to me sinceI gave it serious study and learned how far reaching that doctrine is even outside of soteriology (it is really a worldview). The Conservative branches of mainline churches are absent in my area so nothing to check out there. The half a dozen Conservative Baptist Churches in my town were all started by one big wealthy Baptist church and are all heavily Calvinist. The two Southern Baptist Churches have Calvinist Pastors... Obviously all the Reformed churches are Calvinist... etc. This Calvinist resurgence seems to be grabbing many conservatives despite it's unbiblical teachings. I guess most of the conservative seminaries are now teaching it. Finally I found a non-denominational church with a Pastor who was raised in but left the Independent Fundamental Baptist (ie KJV Only group). He is more casual than I care for and the music is loud and lacking any hymns or psalms but the doctrine is sound and that answers the "Are they my best option" question. I will be attending the membership class later this week.

[@DrGero15]

Worldview? What do you mean?

[@SaneNoMore]

@@DrGero15 I mean that Calvinism is not just a doctrine of soteriology (salvation). The logical implications of the philosophy cause people to alter how they must interpret dozens of other biblical passages that are not often brought up if they are to remain consistent. Calvinism forces you to actually view God in a different manner than a non-Calvinist would view Him. That difference in view is not small and affects how you look at the world, thus it alters your "worldview". I am not at all saying Calvinist are not Christians. They are my brothers and sisters and there are many good and godly people who call themselves Calvinist. I am saying that the differences between Calvinism and Traditional Soteriology are more vast than one might realize and extend beyond the confines of just the doctrine of Soteriology.

[@SaneNoMore]

A quick example is A.W. Pink (a renown Calvinist) who by being consistent with Calvinist philosophy taught God does not love everyone. He does not love the reprobate (those predetermined before the foundations of the world to be hell-bound with no choice or option otherwise) and that He only loves the Elect (those predetermined before the foundations of the world to be going to heaven with no choice or option otherwise). This Pink determined was the only logical view consistent with Calvinism. By that viewpoint God does not love the majority of humans who ever have or ever will exist but only a remnant. This viewpoint is massive departure from the traditional orthodox soteriological teaching. So much of a departure that many Calvinist of today try to couch it in terminology that results in a distinction without a difference.

[@DrGero15]

@@SaneNoMore That was well put, thank you. I always found the idea that God made some people to put in hell repugnant but I never considered how it would effect ones world view.

[@keithwilson6060]

Your questions are too simplistic and don’t go into enough depth. Of course they can say that Jesus and the Father are God. But “God” in what way? An eastern system would say that we are ALL God, we just don’t realize it. So saying that Jesus was God isn’t saying much in context of that system. I’ve found that many homosexual-affirming churches DO purport to present the “biblical” positions of God, the Bible and our relationship to Him. It takes some digging down to realize that they do not mean what they seem to be saying.

[@logarugamon2645]

Pop culture is a huge influence on the world right now, and it comes through many portals such as TV, Movies, Video Games, Books, and all other kinds of entertainment/ ways of portraying ideas. How would you say Christians are doing at being a good, intelligent, and creative influence in these areas? And how do you think we should go about making content like the videos that you make?

[@mosesr4278]

I feel that there are not to many good churches to find anymore. Many in Bible study don't study straight from the Bible. They use other books and I find myself defending the Bible in these Classes.

[@havenofear7033]

Don't believe KZbin propaganda from disgruntled and jaded "believers" who say God is unable to maintain His spiritual organism, the corporate church. There are many faithful congregations around the globe. Not all, but most Calvary Chapels remain faithful to verse upon verse expository teaching and have loving congregations that serve each other and evangelize. I encourage you to take this complete list of Mike's to heart and celebrate the fellowship of Jesus. Every member is needed for the body to operate in a healthy, organized and continuing way.

[@havenofear7033]

Not sure why you scripture-bombed me, but if i were an unbeliever that wouldn't have convinced me that you personally care for my lostness. The Word of God, rightly applied is a well-spring of life to those who are seeking, but to those who are in rebellion, it is the smell of death. Jesus loves you and I wish you the best. Rest in the Lord., He does the work., We just testify of His goodness. Peace to you.

[@jesusisthetorah3447]

Many Christians have turned away from sound doctrine and have embraced lawlessness inevitably joining in the ways of the world and partaking in the traditions of man. In order to know him we must walk as he did and keep his commands and that is exactly what they have abolished in their faith.

[@jesusisthetorah3447]

They must confess breaking the laws of God and their need for a Savior.

[@kerothomas2200]

@@jesusisthetorah3447 keep to the Christian, it was all one whole big church until the western cathlocs and the eastern orthdox split those 2 churches especially the coptic orthdox church follows everything from the bible since the time of jesus

[@seanrathmakedisciples1508]

I enjoyed your video on choosing a church. You are a great blessing for all believers. The moment that we repent and believe in Jesus then we are children of God snatched from the kingdom of darkness and brought into Jesus kingdom. Prayers and fellowship.. In Ephesus there were more than 2000 house fellowship and they came together on special occasions to do outreach or meet a visiting evangelistic team like Paul visiting etc. In times like these it is so important to have strong house fellowships and not to forget the gatherings which were always publicly ordained getting together to win souls for Christ Jesus.Acts 2:41-46 church is the way the church was birthed to be continued til Jesus returns

[@tylercobb1993]

hey Mike, I just wanted to give you a update on my two jw friends. the good news is that the one who had been studying with the church for 1 yr has stoped going and has started going to church with me, yeah God!! the bad news is, is that the other one is confident that her church that said Jesus returned in 1914 is the only true church. keep praying for her. keep up the good work mike ty sfc

[@MikeWinger]

That's fantastic news Tyler! Praise the Lord! I pray that God would keep blessing your friend and that the other person would have their eyes opened to see the truth.

[@nawynerwy6430]

Because soon I'm lost always

[@tylerchewy3400]

Man do you have a simplified version? I don't understand half of the stuff your saying, but what I did understand was very helpful. I am completely ignorant on the topic of religion what church do you go to?

[@infomercialguy]

so so love how this man of God communicates. honest. clear. easy. humble. so much more. well done brother!!

[@danv4046]

But Jeremiah refers to an unregenerate heart the heart that has not been transformed it speaks of the Hear of stone! However after we have received the new heart the passage is no longer applicable to believers

[@rebeccahaskins2023]

I need to feel like I belong

[@dougseely1174]

The first thing that he said was don't trust your feelings. Many if not all cults make you feel like u belong

[@johnhenry457]

Question on #4. What if there are no children in my present or future?

[@keiocorp]

Great. This video really helped us in making a very important life decision.

[@holliefarrington3912]

How about when the best option is bad? So discouraging. I'm not picky, but I do have biblical standards. It's so hard. I'm sad for my kids.

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

We dealt with this. We got online and listened to people like Mike Winger and other churches; taught our own kids during a “Sunday School” for them…. We then found a small group or one family of strong Christians to fellowship, do Bible study and prayer with until God directed us to another state.

[@marthaj67]

Hi, Mike. I'm a new subscriber to your channel and I'm SO glad I found it. We have not been to church with any regularity in almost six years. I know this is not your area of ministry, but I thought I would mention it because you may not even be aware of the need. Our spiritual needs are a bit different than most families. We have two sons with special needs (ages 13 and 7) and finding a church with a Special Needs Children's Ministry has been impossible. With Autism diagnoses skyrocketing, it's going to be a major issue for a lot of families very soon, if it isn't already, and it breaks my heart that most churches don't even seem to be aware of the need. We live in a very well-populated area, full of military families, and so far the majority of the Children's Ministry Pastors/Coordinators I have contacted have acted as if they've never even heard of Special Needs Children's Ministries! The ones were familiar were unable to direct us to any local churches that provide them. So, needless to say, we stay home every Sunday. I'm very grateful for online resources like your channel, so that I can at least study Scripture and listen to sermon podcasts to keep my mind focused on Christ, but it would be nice to have fellowship with other believers and for our boys to grow up in a church family. We have prayed for six years that God would lead us to a church where we could ALL get fed, as well as use the gifts that we've been given to bless the family of God, but so far our search has led us nowhere. I suppose where there is a need that is not being filled by the local church, we must step up and fill it, but neither my husband nor myself has any ministerial training. We don't have any idea where to start. Anyway, I just thought I'd mention one of the major things that we look for in a church yet have been unable to find. Maybe there are other families experiencing the same thing and it might be nice for them to know that they are not alone. Thank you for what you do and I pray that God will continue to bless you, your family, your ministry, and Hosanna Christian Fellowship.

[@daughterofaking4115]

ThingsAreToughAllOver I will be praying that you are led to a great church with special needs teachers and great church family that will welcome you home

[@andreapolk134]

Thank you for this post. I am a speech therapy assistant and have a heart to work with children with special needs and lately it has been on my mind to be part of a special-needs ministry at a church. I never thought about it from the perspective that parents might not want to go to church if the kids can’t be discipled who have special needs. I think that one of the things I need to look for in a church is a church ministering to children with special needs!

[@kentjulesbendano2878]

Our pastor is a women and i hesitate to leave that church because for me it is unbiblical (1 cor.14:34). Should i leave that church? Pls help me! I need your opinion🙏

[@busybee4436]

Kent, Run!

[@Fernando-qs7bl]

@@busybee4436 Are you still there?