BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIER OF A NEW CHURCH
Becoming settled into a new congregation is often very hard. In fact, to some it is a discouraging and lengthy process. It has been demonstrated that most people who fall away from the Lord do so when they move, some of whom never do become settled into a new church family. Although this is a problem universal among churches, this brochure is intended to put the problem into perspective and hopefully provide some help.
Why is a New Church Often Difficult to Penetrate?
1. Churches Do Things Differently
Every church is different, yet it is this diversity that makes Christianity healthy and strong. Every church is unique and people are often uncomfortable in a church where things are done differently. Once adjusted to, however, this is seen as healthy and productive. The newness is soon understood and appreciated.
2. Churches Are Often Cliquish And Closely Knit
In a church, people are often closely knit and it is often difficult for a new person to break through the friendship barrier. In this sense, a churches prominent strength is its greatest weakness. Cliquishness should always be avoided in a caring church, yet this closeness is evidence that the local church does indeed meet the human need for friendship and companionship. This is not to excuse cliquishness, but rather endeavor to put the problem into a positive perspective
3. It Is Often Hard To Make New Friends
Clearly, some people make friends easier than do others. Some are outgoing and extroverted; yet, others are bashful and quiet. In the fearful world in which we live, many people are reluctant to immediately welcome new people into their lives, and meaningful relationships do often require time to develop. Yet, the admonition suggested in Proverbs 18:24: "If a man wants friends, he must show himself friendly" is important advice. Usually, a person that takes a little initiative in "breaking the barrier" will be rewarded many times over.
4. Trust Is Not Always Easy To Develop
In our evil society, trust is not usually taken for granted, and often must be demonstrated and proven. It is not natural for newcomers to go to a church and automatically trust the pastor, officers or members. And, on the same token, a church, at times, takes the same guarded approach to new people. The Bible warns the Christian to "beware" [Matthew 10:16], and this caution is important for the protection of the "sheep". Yet, a loving and wise church will never become cynical or exclusive. Trust should be something that is readily shown and recognized by each Christian.
Helping to Break the Barrier
It has often been said that recognizing a problem is half the battle in overcoming a problem. As a church family we realize the hardship in becoming settled in a new church, because most of us have done so ourselves. Heres how we try to help.
1. By Encouraging Faithfulness
We at Emmanuel try to encourage our members to be faithful, so that new people are observed and properly welcomed. People who are spasmodic in attendance often limit their outreach to new people. Attendance during the Sunday evening and Wednesday night service adds opportunity for all to meet new people and develop friendships.
2. By Encouraging Friendliness
We do not take comfort in the many people that say we are a friendly church, for we realize this must be guarded and protected diligently. There are times when we, as a church family, fail. Yet, recognizing and welcoming newcomers is considered a matter of priority and urgency.
3. By Encouraging Openness
In a society that has so many closed and secret societies, we want you to know that we have no hidden agendas. In fact, visitors are even welcome to attend our business meetings as an observer. We encourage scrutiny! We welcome questions. And, whereas, we do not claim to be a perfect church, we are at least willing to talk about ways that we can do a better job for Christ.
4. By Providing Activities That Promote Friendships
It is wrong for a church to become so activity minded that the real thrust of ministry is lost. But, it is still necessary to have small group activities to aid personal interaction. From group Bible studies to sporting leagues; from musical groups to Sunday School parties, all are designed to formulate friendships and foster personal involvement.
5. By Maintaining A Biblical Identity
The most important thing that should bind Christians together is spiritual truth-Gal. 3:28. A church may become many things to different people, but spiritually speaking, the common bond must be Christ Jesus. Whatever else that may attract you to Emmanuel, Biblical truth and conviction must give us the ultimate sense of spiritual identity and belonging.
6. By Placing Love Above Infraction
No church or Christian is perfect, and at times we fail each other and even abuse one another. The flesh is rife with oversight and neglect. We, however, try to recognize human frailty, and realize that there is a higher value that holds us together besides the expectation to perform. A church family must exercise forgiveness, and have a standard of love that indeed "covereth a multitude of sins" Proverbs 10:12.
7. By Demonstrating A Spirit Of Acceptance
As Christ accepts each sinner, likewise, local church acceptance should be sincere and unpretentious. Church membership does have its conditions, standards and responsibilities, but no one needs to feel that they must measure up to a certain standard to be loved and welcomed. Newcomers are accepted just as they are, with the objective that we might grow together for the glory of our Lord.
8. By a proper definition of the local church.
The local church is not a country club for the saints, but rather a hospital for sinners. A healthy church represents those who are broken, bruised and lonely, only to find refuge and compassion through a caring church family.
Conclusion
Yes, adjusting to a new church can be difficult, but we have all been at that place, and sincerely want to do what we can to help. Please let us know about any problems that you are having adjusting to our church. Even though we ask new members to fill out a Christian service questionnaire to help identify your interests and abilities, feel free to talk to one of the pastors when you feel that you are ready for personal involvement.