| No. |
In a healthy church |
In an unhealthy church |
| 1 |
Genorisity and giving to ministries/charities are taught as principles.
Opportunities for giving to the church are presented, but ultimately it is the church-goers decision if and how much to give.
[2 Corinthians 9:5-15] |
Giving to the church is coerced.
You are guilt-tripped and threatened into it. Finances may be monitored; you could be shamed or penalized for not giving "enough". |
| 2 |
Attendance is encouraged.
If you miss, you are given the benefit of the doubt. If it's a prolonged absence, you may be checked on out of kindness.
[Hebrews 10:23-25] |
Attendance is mandatory.
If you miss, you are viewed with suspicion and may be privately scolded or publicly humiliated. |
| 3 |
Scripture is carefully studied and taught.
The goal is to align church beliefs and behavior to God's word.
[2 Timothy 2:15] |
Scripture is weaponized.
It is used as a tool to justify and enforce church beliefs and behavior. |
| 4 |
When members move to another church or church group, they are still considered brothers and sisters in Christ and fellowshipped with love and respect.
[Ephesians 4:1-6] |
There is no legitimate reason to leave the church group. Those who do are labeled as compromisers, rebels, etc. Relationships are often strained or ended. |
| 5 |
Pastors and elders are servant-leaders, humble shepherds who care for the flock. They are viewed as equals, but respected and followed as they follow Christ.
[1 Peter 5:1-5] |
Pastors and elders are 'lords' who rule over their churches with high-handed control. They are viewed as above everyone else. |
| 6 |
Essential and first-tier doctrines are divided over in love and respect, lesser differences are expected and gladly fellowshiped for the sake of the gospel.
[Romans 14:1-13] |
Differences, even on secondary and tertiary, doctrines, are viewed as dangerous and divided over. Conformity to the group is expected and pressured. |
| 7 |
Questions are invited, open and honest discussions are intentionally cultivated. Leaders encourage the church to hold their teachings accountable to Scripture.
[Acts 17:11] |
Questions are met with suspicion; those asking are often viewed as rebellious, backsliding, and causing division. Clarifying questions might be tolerated, but questions that challenge church teachings with scripture are shut down. |
| 8 |
Churches from other groups, especially local churches, are viewed as partners to collaborate with in order to better serve the local community and share the gospel.
[I Corinthians 12:12-27] |
Churches from other groups, especially local churches, are viewed as competitors. Visiting them is discouraged, partenership is unthinkable. |
