Rules of Engagement: Creating a Welcoming Church Community

As followers of Christ, we’re called to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in our church gatherings. These “rules of engagement” are not about rigid regulations but rather guidelines to help us embody the love of Christ to all who enter our doors. Let’s explore six essential practices that can transform our church experience for everyone.

1. Every Visitor Deserves a Warm Greeting

Imagine this: Sarah, a first-time visitor, nervously steps into the church foyer. Before she could even look around, a friendly face approached her with a genuine smile, saying, “Welcome! We’re so glad you’re here today.”

A warm greeting can melt away anxiety and make newcomers feel instantly at home. Let’s commit to being that friendly face for everyone walking through our doors.

2. An Alone Person in Our Gathering is an Emergency

Picture this: Mark sits alone in the back row, looking uncomfortable. Two regular attendees notice and immediately move to sit beside him, striking up a friendly conversation.

Loneliness in a crowd can be painful. When we see someone sitting alone, let’s view it as an opportunity to extend Christ’s love and make a new connection.

3. Friends Can Wait

Scenario: Lisa spots her best friend across the room but notices a new family looking lost nearby. She decides to help the family find their way before catching up with her friend.

While fellowship with our friends is meaningful, let’s prioritize making newcomers feel welcome. Our friends will understand and appreciate our commitment to hospitality.

4. Introduce a Newcomer to Someone Else

Imagine: John, after chatting with a visitor named Tom, introduces him to the leader of a men’s Bible study group, knowing Tom expressed interest in deeper biblical discussions.

By connecting newcomers with others who share their interests, we help them build relationships and find their place in our church family.

5. Pastors Rush to the Back of the Auditorium to Meet Visitors

Envision: As the service ends, Pastor Mike quickly makes his way to the exit, warmly greeting visitors and thanking them for coming before they can slip away.

This practice shows visitors that they are valued and noticed. It gives them a personal connection with church leadership and an opportunity to ask questions or share concerns.

6. Each Sunday, Invite Someone You Don’t Know to Lunch

Picture this: After the service, Rachel approaches a couple she’s never met and invites them to join her family for lunch at a nearby café.

Breaking bread together creates deeper connections and provides an opportunity for more meaningful conversations outside the church setting.

These rules of engagement are rooted in biblical principles of hospitality and love. The Apostle Paul frequently encouraged early Christians to greet one another with a holy kiss, a cultural expression of welcome and affection (Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12). Peter also emphasized the importance of greeting one another with love (1 Peter 5:14).

As we implement these practices, we’re not just following rules but creating a culture of love, acceptance, and genuine community. Each Sunday, let’s challenge ourselves to step out of our comfort zones and genuinely engage with those around us, especially those we don’t know.

Remember, every person walking through our church doors is a precious soul seeking connection – with others and God. By embracing these rules of engagement, we become the hands and feet of Christ, creating a church where everyone feels at home.

Will you join in making your church a beacon of warmth and welcome? Let’s start this Sunday!

 

 

 

About the Author

Allow us to introduce you to Bruce Mitchell – a true devotee of the Word, a guiding light in the midst of chaos, and a compassionate shepherd to his congregation. His role extends beyond that of a mere speaker; he is an ardent Bible instructor, a devoted Pastor, and an impassioned writer who strives to infuse heavenly wisdom into our daily lives.

Bruce takes great pleasure in having pursued his education at both Biola University and Dallas Theological Seminary. His heart beats with the desire to share God’s profound love and boundless mercy with the world through his ministry, Agapao Allelon Ministries, as well as his blog, Allelon.us. His mission? To interweave the principles of Agapao Allelon into society’s very fabric – embodying divine commandments such as Loving One Another and reflecting God’s immeasurable mercy, grace, and forgiveness in every aspect of our existence.

Drawing inspiration from 1 Peter 4:8, Bruce firmly believes that love possesses the transformative power necessary to turn an adversary into a friend. In accordance with 1 John 4:7-8, he maintains that without love, one cannot truly know God. And guided by Ephesians 4:31-32, he consistently implores us all to embrace love wholeheartedly just as Jesus loved us.

Bruce Mitchell is more than just another voice in this vast universe; he embodies unwavering faith paired with heartfelt empathy for others’ struggles. As always, he serves as our wise mentor, conveying insights gained from personal experiences while aiming to inspire and provide solace when needed most.

Join him as he unravels the essence of God’s word and helps you apply it in your daily life. Let’s share the love, as Jesus commanded!

Pastor | Bible Teacher | Speaker | Writer | Advocate for God’s Mercy, Grace & Love in daily life | He studied at both Biola University & Dallas Theological Seminary | 1 Peter 4:8