There are basic — but essential — concepts to which the Church needs to hold fast in order for it to stay healthy and continue to grow. Discipleship, servant leadership, worship, community, and evangelism are just some of the key tenets of church health. Our ultimate purpose is to glorify God by spreading the Gospel and increasing His Church.

God designed His Church to have shepherds lead the flock and protect them from the “wolves” of the world whose only intention is to devour the sheep. Plugging into a local church also means submitting to its godly authority and trusting that its leadership will protect us through the spiritual battles we face.

We can only see a part of the work God’s doing, but we have to trust that there are others who see the big picture. We’ll never be able to lead well until we first learn to follow and obey. When we submit to the authorities God put over us within His Church, we’re better able to work together as one Body — the Body of Christ!