What Makes a True Church?

What should a local church be—and how can Christians recognise one that is faithful to Christ?

Drawing on Scripture from a historic Reformed Protestant perspective, What Makes a True Church? offers a clear and pastoral guide to the nature, purpose and life of the local church. It examines how Christ governs His people through His Word and why faithful leaders serve the church rather than rule over individual consciences.

Across twelve chapters, C. J. Sterling explores:

• The marks of a true church and the centrality of faithful preaching
• Worship shaped by biblical principles rather than human preference
• Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, including areas of faithful Reformed disagreement
• Church membership, fellowship and accountable belonging
• The calling of elders and deacons as shepherds and servants
• Church discipline, restoration and liberty of conscience
• Safeguarding, evangelism and the church’s public witness
• The hope that Christ will build and perfect His church

With careful attention to biblical passages in context, this book distinguishes essential Christian doctrine from questions on which faithful believers may differ, including church government and baptism. Its accessible approach is suited to readers seeking a healthier understanding of congregational life, those considering membership, and Christians evaluating how a church reflects its Lord.

By the end, readers will be better equipped to assess the health of a local congregation, participate responsibly in its worship and fellowship, encourage servant-hearted leadership, and pursue church life with humility, wisdom and confidence in Christ.