What is the difference between house church, home church, relational church, simple church, micro church, open church, organic church etc.

Nothing, they are all terms used for the same ideology of church life.

Aren’t house churches and cell groups the same thing?

No. House churches are autonomous in their decision making ability, governed by consensus of each groups members. While a cell group is part of a larger body, with a pastor that may make decisions for them or a hierarchy of some kind they must work through.

What makes a house church different than a traditional church?

House churches are built on the foundation that WE are the church, and we do not go to a church. Traditional churches are meeting places, the building itself is the church. House churchers are working to achieve active participation of all in the priesthood of the believer. They enjoy the freedom to let the Holy Spirit move, and allow Jesus to be the leader and the head of the Church. House churches typically have no pastor or single leader of any kind mediating between the body (the believers) and the head (the Lord).

Do house churches have any form of leadership?

Yes. House churches are governed by consensus of the members. Leaders are to lead by example, not as rulers. House churches are elder led and not elder ruled.

If there is no leader is there any accountability in the house church?

Yes. Each member is accountable to every other member of the church. We are to admonish and teach each other (Col 3). Authority and accountability is based on relationship and function and not position.

If you have no pastor who is your covering?

Easy. Jesus Christ.

What is a house church meeting like?

FOOD-House churches often eat a full meal communion as part of their meeting.

INTERACTIVE- Each member is expected to participate in the meeting, each is a priest and the Holy Spirit can move on any member, as He sees fit.

BIBLE STUDY-House churches hold the bible as their final authority in all matters of faith an practice, you can expect a bible study.

PRAYER-House churches may ask each other what they would like prayer for, and there may be a time of corporate prayer for each other.

SINGING- House churches may worship by singing together.

SIMPLICITY- House churches try to keep things simple, there is no reason for an over-complicated church meeting.

FELLOWSHIP- House churches are small so that they may have genuine and intimate fellowship with each other. Members are like extended family.

What about children? Do they have special classes?

Some house churches will have children’s meetings separate from the youth and adults. Some will all meet together. It is surprising how much children learn just being with youth and adults, and how much adults can learn from the children and youth!

Do house churches think of traditional church goers as fellow Christians?

Yes. Every believer is considered a brother or sister in Christ.

How can I find a house church in my area?

This website has several house churches and house church leaders listed. If you are interested in attending a house church meeting, just call the house church leader who’s meeting is closest to you.