Jesus Café Ministries - Scripture Squad - Does God care which church I belong to?

From: Rachel
Hello everyone! I have a question about the different denominations within Christianity. I know ya'll do not answer specific denominational questions, but how do I know which one is right?

I was brought up one particular denomination, but since I moved to college I have become involved in another. The church I now attend I feel preaches the word in a more truer way and helps me to have a closer relationship with GOD, but what if I am wrong.

Eternity is a long time to spend in hell for believing the wrong thing. I don't agree with how some people say that GOD doesn't care which church you go to as long as you go. I think he cares. What do you think?

Rachel,
Every serious student of Scripture eventually asks the questions you are asking. We agree that God DOES care about every aspect of your life, including this very important issue.

First, we need to make one thing clear. We don't go to hell for belonging to the wrong church. Nor do we go to heaven by belonging to the right one. Our salvation is dependent on what Jesus did for us. His perfect sinless life, His death and His resurrection are the basis of our salvation. We place our faith and trust in Him and believe we are secure in His arms :)

As followers of Jesus, we are called to join a community of believers. Hebrews 10:25: "not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging {one another} and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."(NAS) As a community, we are to live our lives according to Scripture. And there is only one way to know if you have joined into a Scripture based community. And that is for you to know Scripture for yourself. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (NKJ)

If you have joined to a body of believers that teaches that Scripture is your authority then that is a great start! If however, you are in a congregation, that places an emphasis on experiences or extra-Biblical teaching, then we caution you to make sure this is a true teaching. We also caution you to beware of places that teach that you can earn or keep your salvation through certain works of your own.

A community of believers should not only be a place where one can grow and mature in the Lord, but it should be a place where one can serve God. We should not be just hearers of the Word, but doers as well. James 1.

Some other Scripture references to consider: 1 John 4:1-6 2 Peter Ephesians. 5:18-21

Also, in James 1, we are told to ask the Lord for wisdom and He will lead: James 1:5-6 "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind."(NASB)

So we urge you to seek out His will in this matter through Bible study and prayer. He has promised to give you His wisdom : )

- The Scripture Squad :
TCCaleb, TCCaff, RuthCCC & DawnCCC