Jeremy McGarity
·
February 19, 2020

Church Home

Finding a church home can be intimidating. Is there a certain protocol? You may be wondering … when do I stand up or when do I sit down? Is there a dress code? Hey, I’ve been there! And I just want to say, relax. One indicator that you’re closer to finding your church home is when you can actually relax. At my church home, the animal sacrifices don’t even happen until the end. No, I’m kidding. We don't sacrifice animals.

I know finding a church can be quite a journey. So, before you plant roots, here are 5 key values to look for in a church home:

  1. Found people find people
    Every person has a name, and every name has a story. YOUR story matters! And so do the stories of your family, friends, and people you connect with on a daily basis. In Luke 19:10, Jesus demonstrates who He was looking for … the lost. Those who were disconnected from God. Those who felt God had abandoned them or they had abandoned God. You'll know you’re home when finding people isn’t just something that is played out on Sunday. Helping people find and follow Jesus is something we’re called to live out seven days a week!
  2. You’ll never walk alone 
    Every church does this differently. This is the part where you might be thinking Christians are weird. If you’re new to a church, the best way for you to know if you’re where you want to be is when you’re surrounded by the people who are going to help you grow in your walk with God. These people will help you navigate the church, your faith, and your decision to plant roots. As you get connected at your church home, your small group will walk with you through the highs and the lows of life (Acts 2:41).
  3. Giving from the heart
    You can’t outgive God. I’ve tried! The only time God ever says to test Him is in Malachi 3:10, and He was referring to our giving. I want to encourage you to never give out of obligation. Money is an uncomfortable topic that no one likes to talk about, but the Bible doesn't shy away from it because God knows your heart and wallet are deeply connected. At my church home, we don’t pass the plate. Giving is something for you to decide with God in advance how you’ll worship Him through your finances. So, may I suggest, give whatever you can and do it online. Like it says in 2 Corinthians 9 … you must decide in your own heart what you’ll give. Find a church home that allows you to discover the joy of giving at your own pace.
  4. Saved people serve people
    God’s given every believer at least one gift. If you’re not serving you’re not getting fulfilled. I know this because everyone itches to use their gifts and talents. Serving others is the “how” you’re looking for to scratch that itch. God wants you to serve in the area that best utilizes the gifts He has created in you (Ephesians 2:10). Your church home is going to want to plug you into the ministry that best suits you and your calling.
  5. Change
    You don’t want to plant yourself somewhere that “plays” the church game. Walking with Jesus and applying the truth of the Word of God should and will change you. But, you have to be willing to get uncomfortable and let God stretch your faith. You’re never going to reach perfection this side of Heaven, but the question you must ask yourself is, “Is there progress?” After you've attended a church for a season, ask yourself if you’re any different than when you first visited. We should never assume we've reached the top of the mountain because we'll always be growing! (2 Peter 3:18).

There’s an image of churches out there that shouts “I’m not welcome.” You may have seen it or felt it. We want to debunk that message and that’s why our slogan is “No Perfect People Allowed.” There’s a lot of different ways to “do” church. And it takes many types of churches to reach many different types of people. I'm not offended when my church home isn’t someone else’s church home. But, the Bible is clear for those who call themselves Believers, church attendance is not optional. If you’ve visited Skyline Church, I hope you felt relaxed. If we weren't your cup of tea, let us connect you to a church that upholds these biblical values and fits the vibe you’re looking for.  No matter where you go, stay to the end to see if they sacrifice any cats. That might be my new church home!

Relax, I’m KIDDING!

Let us know if we can get you plugged in at Skyline or help you find a church home near you by filling out a Connection Card.

God bless you,

Your Friend,

Jeremy

2 comments

2 thoughts on “Church Home”

  1. Joanne Dutcher-McCale said:

    I love Skyline. It is my new home church. Pastor Jeremy McGarity I owe it to you that I have come back to church. I also love how warm and welcoming our church is. I look forward to growing more as I walk with our Lord.

  2. Birdie Royal said:

    💘🙏🏻💘

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