Only a true church of Christ can expect to be healthy. The marks of a true church are:
a. The pure preaching of the Word.
b. The proper administration of the sacraments.
c. The faithful exercise of discipline.
d. The active call to tell others of Christ.
When these elements are presence, health can be expected.
A HEALTHY CHURCH CENTERS ITSELF IN A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE TRIUNE GOD
A HEALTHY CHURCH THRIVES BY PLACING HIGH VALUES ON:
Worship (Hebrews 12:28)
Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Preaching (Romans 10:17)
Education (Philippians 1:9)
Doctrine/theology (John 1:18)
OUT OF THESE PRINCIPLES, A HEALTHY CHURCH:
provides regular engagement with God's word (II Timothy 3:15-16; Hebrews 4:12)
experiences unity (John 17:20-23; Ephesians 4:2-6)
has a keen sense of God’s kingdom vision and clearly identifies it’s mission as bringing glory to God (Matthew 13:31-33; Revelation 5:11-14; II Corinthians 3:16-18)
is aware where it is in its lifespan (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; John 12:24)
makes the most of prayer (James 5:16-18; Acts 2:42-47; Acts 4:23-31)
sings robustly (Psalm 100)
loves people (Romans 12:9-13)
shares the gospel (Romans 10:14-15)
enjoys fellowship (Acts 2:42-47)
desires worship (Psalm 122:1)
loves neighbor (Galatians 5:14)
cares for young and old and those in need (Acts 4:32-35)
interacts across the generations like a family (Psalm 145:4)
makes disciples (Matthew 28:19-20)
sends God’s people out into the world (Acts 1:8)
enjoys high participation rates according to people's gifts (Romans 12:3-8)
exemplifies kingdom building by reclaiming areas of relationships, work, play and community (Colossians 3:15-17)
is generous, organized, obedient (1 Timothy 6:18; 1 Corinthians 14:40)
displays fruit that comes with being spirit filled (Galatians 5:22-26)
approaches conflict not to defend territory but to demonstrate God's forgiveness and reconciliation (Colossians 3:12-14)
honors and cares for its leaders; pastors, elders and deacons (1 Thess. 5:12-13; 1 Tim. 5:17-20; Heb. 13:7,17)
participates in collaborative ministry with other local churches (Joshua 1:14b-15; Acts 15; 1 Corinthians 3:5-9)
has faithful, healthy and courageous leaders living out and teaching the truth (Ephesians 4)