Hello brothers Rictch, Big Moose and ClearPath;
Thank you for sharing and I have no doubt based on your hard knock experiences. Using the expression, "just close your eyes, point and go" should not be the way to find a church.
We should pray, what church is God calling us to serve Him? Are we asking for discernment? Back in the New Testament many new believers were led to churches that promoted false teaching.
As Big Moose said, there is too much infiltration of "trends" in some denominations. We are definitely seeing this in the last days. Not all churches lead astray but we must still use caution in these times.
I feel many Christians pray for the church they will worship but may have to search as Rictch did until God leads them where they will serve Him. Throughout the Old and New Testaments His faithful servants searched with patience and endurance as God did the rest and delivered them.
Many believers become anxious looking for the right church and we don't have to overwhelm ourselves with this task.
Clearpath gives wise encouragement for us all. "Read our Bibles, study the teachings and move the way God wants us to."
For years my wife and I read the Bible, study the teachings but, we left the last one out. Sigh!
Matthew 11:28-30, 28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
I'm enjoying this topic and its a serious one. There is nothing wrong with being cautious where we attend church. God would expect that because not all His churches are anointed. I'm sorry to say.
God bless everyone and your families.