In the course of our lives there will inevitably come a time when we will have the need to search out a church. When the church was started (Acts Chapter 2) there were no denominations. Since then because of the interference of men (and women) there are many differences in doctrine and practice.

The purpose in writing this is not to convince anyone that the church I go to is the one church that everyone else should go to. In some cases doctrine and practice are so important that resolution of the issue should be fought for with every means possible (scripture and prayer). In some cases differences are trivial and merely a matter of preference, or possibly only cultural or regional differences in practice.

Please understand that the following is only a guide. The ultimate authority is Scripture. The unfortunate problem is that too many people today are too “busy” to look to God’s word for the answers they seek. The admonition to “study” in 2 Timothy 2:15 is not merely a suggestion, it is a commandment. It is our individual responsibility to look to scripture to find what kind of a church God would have us attend; and to continue to “search the scriptures” (Acts 17:10-11) once we have a church we consider to be our “home.”

The following list I will attempt to format in somewhat descending order of importance. Permission is given to copy and use all or part of this article and list for the purpose of finding a church. Feel free to add to or subtract from the list as necessary for your individual purposes. Headings and topics will be in bold print. Sub-headings of similar topics will be indented and underlined. May God bless and may the Holy Spirit guide your search for a Christ-centered Biblically-based church. The last page(s) of this article will contain a condensed list (headings and sub-headings only) with applicable scripture references.

Authority: Scripture should be considered to be the final authority in every aspect of our lives and in every aspect of the local church. 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Acts 17:10-11, John 5:39, John 10:35, John 17:17

Pastor(s): While the pastor is seen as the leader of the local church it is important that the pastor be held accountable to scripture, especially if the teaching (preaching) is erroneous. The pastor should have the authority to teach on any subject and be willing to be led by the Holy Spirit in his preaching. The pastor is merely the elder who is responsible for the primary teaching/preaching role in the local church. Isaiah 8:20, Acts 17:10-11, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Titus 1:5-9

Elders: Elders, Pastors and Bishops are words translated from the same word in the New Testament. The office of elder was established in the Old Testament. All Elders in the local church are equally responsible for the spiritual condition of their respective church. In studying the issue of biblical church leadership, I have come to the conclusion that while the Pastor is often seen as the head of the local church, to be true to scripture and especially for purposes of accountability it is necessary to also ordain (establish) elders in addition to the pastor. All elders, including the pastor are to be equal in office, status and responsibility. While one elder (Pastor) usually assumes the primary teaching and leadership role in the local church, all elders must fulfill the qualifications set forth in scripture. They may trade off or fill in the role of Pastor. All should be able and willing to teach sound doctrine. In studying scripture, I have consistently found that when elders are mentioned, it is always in the plural form. It is only logical then to surmise that there are to be multiple elders in each local church. For small or beginning churches, I would highly recommend that a minimum of 3 elders be established. There is no indication in scripture that the office of elder is a limited term position. Elders are not to be subject to election or dismissal on a whim by the congregation. An elder, once appointed or established in his position, is to serve faithfully until he is scripturally disqualified, is no longer able to physically or mentally serve in his capacity, or steps down of his own accord. Exodus 18:13-27, Numbers 11:16-17, Deuteronomy 1:9-18, Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 27:17, Acts 14:21-23, Acts 20:17, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 14:29-31, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, James 5:14, James 5:16, James 5:19-20, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Proper Biblical Interpretation: God said what he meant and he meant what he said when he inspired men to write the scriptures. It is our responsibility to read and study God’s word so that we can discern proper doctrine. It is essential that in interpreting scripture, that we compare the scriptures. Scripture will not contradict scripture (unless it is taken out of context). It is important to use a literal-historical approach to interpreting scripture. Generally, what is written is the clear meaning of the passage. Taken in context, the portions of scripture which are to be interpreted in a symbolic way (parables, for example) should be clear. Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Literal Creationism vs. Theistic Evolution: This issue should be a no-brainer. Unfortunately, corrupt doctrines have crept into the church. The Bible is God’s word and as such, IS the final authority. God said what he meant and he meant what he said. God created the universe in six literal 24-hour days. The only way anyone can claim otherwise while attempting to justify their position with scripture is to completely and erroneously take scripture out of context. Genesis 1:1-2:1, Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Biblical Counseling vs. ‘Christian’ Psychology: This issue should also be a no-brainer. God gave us everything we need in his word to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to him. When we attempt to replace God’s way with man’s way we will always fail. Biblical counseling guides people to (or back to) biblical standards of conduct and continues the discipleship process. Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Membership Requirements: These will most likely vary by church. The need for membership requirements is, unfortunately, necessary for church discipline. (Matthew 18:15-17, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 2:5-11, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 2 John 9-11) Membership requirements should be based on and/or closely follow biblical principles. At the very least, church members should be true believers as evidenced by spiritual fruit in their lives and they should be baptized, following the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Matthew 7:15-23, Matthew 18:15-17, Acts 2:41-42, Romans 6:1-10, 1 Corinthians 5, 1 Timothy 1:19-20 (Issues concerning church discipline involving children still under their parents’ care and responsibility should be directed to the parents. Issues concerning church discipline involving a married woman should be first directed to her husband. God instituted the family, with the husband as the physical and spiritual head before he instituted the church. Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15)

Church Leadership (Structure and Accountability): The two primary offices in church leadership are the offices of Elders and Deacons.

Elders: The office of Elder was discussed somewhat earlier in this article. Elders are primarily responsible for the spiritual health and leadership, as well as the overall function of the church. Elders are not subordinate to the pastor or vice-versa. All elders, including the pastor are equal as peers and are to be held accountable one to another. As co-leaders of the local church, and as brothers in Christ, their lives should be relatively transparent amongst themselves. Regular sharing of joys and sorrows, praises and prayers should be normal and accepted by all. Elders have two primary responsibilities: studying God’s word so that they are able to conduct their lives and lead their own families and the church they oversee in God’s will, (implied here is the fact that they will pass on through their teaching to the church and their families what they learn in their study) and; praying for illumination of what they study, praying for discernment of God’s will for their own lives and that of their families and praying for the church as a body as well as praying for each individual member and attendee of the church. Exodus 18:13-27, Numbers 11:16-17, Deuteronomy 1:9-18, Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 27:17, Acts 6:1-7 Acts 14:21-23, Acts 20:17, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 14:29-31, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, James 5:14, James 5:16, James 5:19-20, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Deacons: Deacons are primarily responsible for the physical needs of the church. This includes overseeing the maintenance of the meeting facility, organization of activities and ministries, and physical needs of the members of the local body. Although elders are specifically tasked with teaching, deacons should be allowed to teach or preach also. Deacons are to be held accountable one to another in the same manner as the elders are. They are further to be held accountable to the elders, as the elders are accountable for the church as a whole. This does not mean that everything done by the deacons must be first approved by the elders, but regular meetings of elders and deacons should be held for prayer and discussion of the needs and activities of the church, whether spiritual or physical. Acts 6:1-7, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:8-13, James 5:16, James 5:19-20

Other leadership: While not specifically addressed in scripture, it is reasonable that other leadership offices may be established as needed. Sunday school teachers, Vacation Bible School program overseers, musicians or song leaders, ushers, treasurer or church secretary may or may not be considered to be offices within the church. Any position (other than elders and deacons) may be created or done away with based upon the current need of the church. All other leadership should be subject unto the deacons and the elders, as is proper and biblical. Other leadership positions may be held by women as long as the position and function is in agreement with scripture. Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15)

Autonomy: There is no precedent in scripture for a structured hierarchy above the local church assembly and leadership. Simply put, the leadership of the local church, namely the elders are not accountable to a District Superintendent, Regional Board, Cardinal, Bishop or Pope. As previously mentioned, the elders are to be held accountable to one another. They are further to be held accountable to scripture. On judgment day all elders will ultimately be held accountable to God for their actions and inactions done while holding the office of elder. Matthew 16:13-20, 1 Corinthians 11:3, Ephesians 2:11-22, Colossians 1:9-18

Baptism: Who: Only believers who have made a public confession of faith and repentance should be baptized. Only those who are mentally capable of grasping their need for salvation and the gift and means of salvation can effectually do this. There is no precedence in scripture of infant baptism or of baptism by proxy. There is no required minimum age to be reached before a young believer may be baptized. Essentially, every believer should be able to communicate a clear understanding of the doctrine of salvation and express a desire to follow Jesus’ example in being baptized as part of a public confession of faith.

When: This question is purely a matter of organization and/or convenience. Some churches (for whatever reason) may ‘schedule’ baptisms at a specific time during the year. I would prefer to see the church be accommodating to a person’s desire for baptism, given a reasonable notice. For example, a new believer expresses their desire to be baptized. The new believer is examined by the elders to see if he/she has a clear understanding of the doctrines of salvation and baptism. (Baptism should be held to be an act of obedience to scripture shortly following salvation. It may take some people longer than others to come to this conclusion, but with study of the doctrines of salvation and baptism, a person should be convinced that baptism should be accomplished in order to be obedient to the clear teaching of scripture.) The baptism should be accomplished at the earliest possible opportunity for all involved.

Where: This question is also merely a matter of logistics. While many churches have a baptismal or some such accommodation somewhere on the premises, there are some churches that must arrange for facilities to conduct baptisms. If there are not accommodations for baptisms, where are they performed? Does the person being baptized have the choice to be baptized in a local lake, stream or pool if they so choose?

(Baptism:) Matthew 3:13-17, Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22, John 1:32-34, Acts 2:38, Acts 2:41-47, Acts 8:12, Acts 8:36-38, Acts 9:17-18, Acts 10:44-48, Acts 18:8, Romans 6:1-10

Communion: This ordinance was instituted by Christ at what has commonly come to be known as the ‘Last Supper’. There are three ways (that I am aware of) in which churches practice this ordinance. Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, 1 Corinthians 11:23-34

Open communion: When the elements of the Lord’s Table are served (bread and cup) everyone present may participate if they so choose. No regard is given for church affiliation, spiritual condition or any other factor. 1 Corinthians 11:27-30

Close communion: When the elements of the Lord’s Table are served, it is stated, practiced or in some way communicated that only those true believers of like faith and practice should partake. No attempt is made to specifically exclude or include anyone. Those who partake do so according to their own conscience. (If there are persons who are known to be under church discipline from the local church or another church, an effort should be made to discourage them from participating before being restored to the body of Christ.) 1 Corinthians 11:27-30 (Matthew 18:15-17, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 2:5-11, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 2 John 9-11)

Closed communion: When the elements of the Lord’s Table are served, only members in good standing of the specific local church (or denomination) are allowed to be served. Usually an attempt to enforce this is made in some way. I have found no justification in scripture to practice explicitly closed communion.

Men’s roles (married, single, widowers): There is an unfortunate and very unbiblical blurring of the distinct and separate roles of men and women, not only in society, but also in the church today. When God created man and woman he also separated their roles. This has been consistently borne out in scripture. There are historical significances of this too, but those have been changing, most rapidly over the last 100 years or so. This question is posed to see what, if any ministry (service) opportunities exist for men in different capacities. (Married men with families will most often be more restricted in their time availability than single or widowed men.) Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 4:11-13, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15

Women’s roles (married, single, widows): There are several areas where women are more qualified and equipped to lead in ministry than men. Primarily this would be ministry to other women. Any ministry should be reviewed by the elders and under their oversight. Women are well-equipped for younger children’s ministry as well. Without rehashing what has already been stated, women are equal in importance to men, however, they have separate and distinct roles from those of men. Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 4:11-13, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15, 1 Timothy 5:1-16, 2 Timothy 2:5, Titus 2: 1-5

Liberty, License and Legalism: Scripture gives us everything we need for living Godly lives in this present age. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)Because we have all been created to be unique individuals with free will to make our own choices, as well as being from vastly different backgrounds and at different levels of spiritual maturity, there will inevitably be ‘gray areas’ which scripture does not specifically address in word or principle. Liberty, license and legalism can be taken to extremes and become hindrances to faith and practice of individuals or churches. Before addressing each point and the pros and cons of each point, I believe that there are a couple of simple questions to ask oneself in approaching a ‘gray area’. First, are you satisfied that you have searched scripture, sought godly counsel and prayed about the issue sufficiently? If the answer to this is yes and the issue is not directly addressed in scripture, ask the question, “How does (can) this glorify God?” If after this process the issue is resolved and you have a clear conscience about the issue, it should be acceptable and no longer be an issue. With that being said, I’d like to look at each point individually.

Liberty: Most of the issues involving liberty are a result of our culture, environment or family background. If a questionable practice is not addressed in scripture, either explicitly or in principle and we can maintain a clear conscience doing it, it is acceptable for us to do, so long as we are not offending a weaker brother or sister in the faith. In my experience, those practicing their ‘Christian liberty’ are doing so without regard for anyone else. Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8, Philippians 2:3-4

License: This I would consider to be almost the same as liberty with the exception that in using license to practice something not specifically addressed in scripture, but agreeing with our conscience we are cognizant of the possibility of offending another brother or sister in Christ. When a Christian exercises their license to practice something according to their conscience, they are primarily cognizant of the possibility of causing a brother or sister in Christ to stumble in their faith. One should go further, to the point of recognizing that an unbeliever may have a preconceived idea that something is not “okay” for a Christian to do and therefore structure their conduct to “abstain from every appearance of evil.” A Christian, understanding the very idea that anyone could call into question their conduct, whether believer or unbeliever, should motivate them to temper their actions so that they would attempt to live their lives to be beyond reproach. Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8, Philippians 2:3-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:22

Legalism: Legalism is unfortunately the case in some churches still today. Jesus spoke out against it, specifically concerning the Pharisees in his time. Paul and Peter also spoke against legalism. Those individuals or churches involved in legalism and legalistic practices claim that one must dress, or act in a certain prescribed way. Sometimes legalism involves versions of scripture used. ‘If you do this or don’t do this, you must not be saved.’ Or, ‘you’re not as spiritually mature as I am, because…’ The problem with this is adding to scripture or of making some practice conditional, usually of gaining or maintaining your salvation. Legalism is often used as leverage to cause people to conform within a local congregation or a denomination. Legalism is not scriptural. Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, Matthew 15:7-9, Matthew 23, Acts 15:1-29, Galatians 2:11-14, Galatians 6:12-16

Missionary support: One of the ways a church can be quite effective in spreading the gospel message is by supporting ministries and missionaries outside of the local church. Primarily this support would be through financial support and in prayer. Well-established churches should actively support missionaries (ministries) and seek to advance the gospel of Christ in this way, actively extending and multiplying their reach, influence and effectiveness. Isaiah 6:8, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 8:26-38, Acts 11:29-30, Romans 10:14-15, 1 Corinthians 16:1-3

Sunday school & ‘Children’s Church’: The idea and practice of Sunday school is well-established today. There is nothing inherently wrong with either of these. There can be some areas of concern among some people. Some parents, for whatever reason, choose not to send their children to either activity. There is nothing wrong with this decision and parents should be allowed to make the choice for their own family. The other issues regarding these activities fall under the jurisdiction of the elders of the local church. The questions which should be asked are, “How are the teachers for Sunday school chosen and/or approved?” And, “Who selects the study material (curriculum) for these activities?” Ultimately, it is the elders who must give an account for their oversight of the local church on judgment day. Deuteronomy 6:5-9, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Ministry opportunities & family/kids activities: This question is multi-faceted in its approach, but all points are related in essence. Every member of the church, regardless of age, ability or talent should be afforded the opportunity to participate in the ministry (service) of the church. Whether the ministry is assisting in cleaning and maintaining the church building and grounds, greeting worshipers, handing out bulletins, or any other task, they should be available to anyone who wishes to participate. Obviously, tasks may need to be modified to be more age-appropriate, but even children should be allowed to help whenever possible. Men and women who desire to help in some way should be examined for their specific gifts and talents, examined by the elders to ensure that they are qualified for the ministry where they desire to help, then given whatever they need to succeed in their ministry (service). Aside from ministry opportunities for everyone, many people will seek some sort of activities available for the family as a whole, for men specifically, for women specifically, and for kids specifically, especially if the church is large enough to support such activities. In the event that these activities cannot be carried on a continual basis, it may be possible to accomplish them on an occasional basis. Ecclesiastes 9:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 1 Corinthians 12, Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:23

Interaction with other churches: What interaction, if any, is there with other churches? In some cases, interaction on the broad spectrum can be good. It should be highly cautioned, however, if a church is greatly into any ecumenical movements. The church can greatly impair its ministry to the point of being completely ineffective if it allows close association with other individuals or churches whose doctrines (especially major ones) are in contrast to scripture and therefore in error. Generally, interaction is limited to that with other churches of like faith and practice, usually those of the same denomination. Matthew 7:15-20, Acts 20:28-30, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

‘Traditions’: There is nothing inherently wrong with traditions within a church unless the ‘tradition’ is so rigid that it stifles the leading of the Holy Spirit. Usually this has to do with the traditional order of the service. I have experienced church settings where the Pastor felt led by the Spirit to pray for a particular issue at an unusual time; or, where the Pastor felt led by the Spirit to diverge from his sermon to teach something a little off the original subject. I have also experienced church settings where the altar call is so routine with the same song, same approach, same timing, same everything but the date, that the alter call becomes almost totally ineffective. In another instance, I have experienced a church service where the order was changed just a little bit by an elder filling in for the Pastor and several members were very offended that their ‘tradition’ of the order of service was changed. I have found nothing in scripture to support or refute a tradition of a rigid order of service. Colossians 2:8

Bible translations: This is a huge issue with some individuals and churches. After research sufficient to my own satisfaction, I have concluded that the King James translation is the best, most accurate, most reliable translation for English-speaking people today. I will not condemn other translations or the people who use them. The only true word of God (not subject to any error, scribal or otherwise) would be the original copies written by the men who actually wrote out scripture under the direction of the Holy Spirit. The issue of specific translations and use should be seen merely as a preference by individuals or by local assemblies, but can also degenerate into legalism if one does not use the ‘correct’ translation. It is easier to follow the preaching if you and the preacher (teacher) are using the same translation. Regardless of translation, it is our individual responsibility to properly interpret scripture by study and prayer. We are also to verify through study and prayer the teaching that we hear is properly lining up with God’s word. Psalm 119:18, Acts 17:10-11, 2 Timothy 2:15

Conclusion: There may be several reasons why, over a lifetime you find yourself looking for a new church home. The foregoing guide will hopefully assist in asking relevant questions in seeking out a Bible-teaching, Bible-believing, Bible-living church. It’s not expected that this is a one-size-fits-all guide. Ask only the questions you have particular concerns about. Research the scripture references given. Remember that the final authority is not this or any other article or a Pastor of a local church. The final authority is God and he told us what we need to know in his Word. My hope and prayer for you is that if you do need to use this article in guiding you, it is used infrequently because you did indeed find a solid, Bible-based church. May God bless and guide you in your search for His will for your life. The following page(s) are the condensed list (headings and sub-headings) with scripture references found in this article.

Authority: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Acts 17:10-11, John 5:39, John 10:35, John 17:17

Pastor(s): Isaiah 8:20, Acts 17:10-11, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 1 Timothy 6:3-5, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Titus 1:5-9

Elders: Exodus 18:13-27, Numbers 11:16-17, Deuteronomy 1:9-18, Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 27:17, Acts 14:21-23, Acts 20:17, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 14:29-31, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, James 5:14, James 5:16, James 5:19-20, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Proper Biblical Interpretation: Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Literal Creationism vs. Theistic Evolution: Genesis 1:1-2:1, Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Biblical Counseling vs. ‘Christian’ Psychology: Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 30:5-6, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Membership Requirements: Matthew 18:15-17, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 2:5-11, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 2 John 9-11, Matthew 7:15-23, Matthew 18:15-17, Acts 2:41-42, Romans 6:1-10, 1 Corinthians 5, 1 Timothy 1:19-20, Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15 (Refer to article for further clarification)

Church Leadership (Structure and Accountability):

Elders: Exodus 18:13-27, Numbers 11:16-17, Deuteronomy 1:9-18, Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 27:17, Acts 6:1-7 Acts 14:21-23, Acts 20:17, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 14:29-31, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, James 5:14, James 5:16, James 5:19-20, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Deacons: Acts 6:1-7, Philippians 1:1, Timothy 3:8-13, James 5:16, James 5:19-20

Other leadership: Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15)

Autonomy: Matthew 16:13-20, 1 Corinthians 11:3, Ephesians 2:11-22, Colossians 1:9-18

Baptism: Who: When: Where: Matthew 3:13-17, Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22, John 1:32-34, Acts 2:38, Acts 2:41-47, Acts 8:12, Acts 8:36-38, Acts 9:17-18, Acts 10:44-48, Acts 18:8, Romans 6:1-10

Communion: Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, 1 Corinthians 11:23-34

Open communion: 1 Corinthians 11:27-30

Close communion: 1 Corinthians 11:27-30 (Matthew 18:15-17, Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 2:5-11, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 2 John 9-11)

Closed communion: This practice is not supported by scripture.

Men’s roles (married, single, widowers): Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 4:11-13, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15

Women’s roles (married, single, widows): Genesis 2:21-24, Genesis 3:16, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Ephesians 4:11-13, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 6:1-4, 1 Timothy 2:9-15, 1 Timothy 5:1-16, 2 Timothy 2:5, Titus 2: 1-5

Liberty, License and Legalism:

Liberty: Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8, Philippians 2:3-4

License: Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8, Philippians 2:3-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:22

Legalism: Deuteronomy 4:2, Deuteronomy 12:32, Proverbs 30:5-6, Matthew 15:7-9, Matthew 23, Acts 15:1-29, Galatians 2:11-14, Galatians 6:12-16

Missionary support: Isaiah 6:8, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 8:26-38, Acts 11:29-30, Romans 10:14-15, 1 Corinthians 16:1-3

Sunday school & ‘Children’s Church’: Deuteronomy 6:5-9, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Peter 5:1-5

Ministry opportunities & family/kids activities: Ecclesiastes 9:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 1 Corinthians 12, Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:23

Interaction with other churches: Matthew 7:15-20, Acts 20:28-30, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

‘Traditions’: Colossians 2:8

Bible translations: Psalm 119:18, Acts 17:10-11, 2 Timothy 2:15