CHURCH GROWTH (Part IV)

                                                        Acts 2:42-47

Introduction

    A.  Review of previous studies of church growth principles.

    B.  Let’s look at another church growth principle: we must welcome new members

          into our family.

Body

     I.  It has been suggested that before people will commit to a church, they want the

         answers to four unspoken questions:

         A.  Do I fit here?  This is a question of acceptance.  2 Corinthians 13:12; Romans

               15:7

               1.  How can we give people a sense of belonging?

               greet, welcome, give necessary directions, send appreciation letter,

             visit.

        B.  Does anybody here want to know me?  This is a question of friendship.                                           

               Galatians 6:9-10

               1.  At least one member must take a personal interest in “regular visitors.”

         C.   Am I needed?  This is a question of value.  Matthew 16:26

         D.  What is required of me?  This is a question of expectation.  Matthew 18:1-4

               1.  We must humble ourselves and become servants of God.

         E.   Comments by Mark Copeland referring to Lyle Schaller’s writing,

                “Assimilating New Members.”

Conclusion