Website Orthodoxy and Discernment

Mamma always says, "You can't always judge a book by its cover."  That goes for judging a church by its website, too. Momma didn't say it, but it's true.

In other words, when looking for a "safe" church, you can't always go by statements of faith on websites.

This one below, for example, looks like a legitimate statement. Or at least the beginnings of one. But it belongs to a church of tares, run by a dangerous wolf who is not a brother in the Lord, despite what is professed.

Can you guess which church this belongs to?

Screenshot of a popular mega-church's statement of faith

"What We Believe" statements like these fool millions. The above comes from Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church in Houston. His televised sermons are seen by over 7 million viewers weekly and over 20 million monthly in over 100 countries. Unfortunately, he does not preach biblical Christianity, but another gospel. Research his teaching here and here.

Some churches and ministries don't have statements of faith. Like this one. If the church you are examining will not provide you with this information, FLEE.

Let's try another:

Sounds legit?  Wait a second, you might want to put down those membership forms and check out who runs this church, here and here.

How about this one?

Nope, I'm afraid this one is definitely not safe for you or your family.

We could go on and on all day. Just remember, there are solid churches out there that you and I would consider "safe" from theological harm. And they have solid faith statements on their website. But so do the counterfeits. The enemy of your soul wants nothing more than to confuse and trick you into hearing lies about God. So you must diligently dive into past sermons, and listen to what they actually teach.

Keep going. Go down the hall and check out the church library and the ministry leaflets. Are the children learning how to be Orange? Check out their Facebook page, or ask friends who attend. Are the women learning their doctrine from these she-wolves? 

You've got your work cut out for you, but finding a safe church is worth the legwork. 

Okay one more, but that's it! 

If you criticize this pastor's church, you are surely one of those haters.