Thomas Weaver of Resurgence expresses very well the thoughts of a non Christian visiting a church. It would be good if church leaders kept these things in mind when they open their church doors on
Sunday morning.Okay I’m not a Christian, but I’ve finally made the decision to come to your church this Sunday. Don’t expect much from me though. If something comes up I might not, but right now I’m planning on it. I feel like I need to go, but I’m not sure why. I want to tell you a few things about myself before you meet me.
1. I’m not going to understand religious language or phrases so be aware of that when we talk. I don’t understand slain in the spirit, God is moving in me, covered in the blood, I need to die to self, you just need to be in the Word, what you need is a new life, etc. If we have conversation filled with religious talk, I’m probably not going to understand half of the words...and maybe think you’re a little crazy.
2. When you ask me how I’m doing, know that I don’t trust you. I’m probably going to lie and tell you I’m fine. It’s not that I don’t want to tell you; it’s just that I come from some pain and am not sure if I trust you yet. How about you tell me your story first? If I like you and get the vibe that you’re not trying to capture my soul or anything, I’ll tell you mine.
3. I’ve got pretty rough language and I can be bitter and angry about some things. If I sense in you a mindset of superiority, I’m out. If you are just waiting for your turn to talk instead of truly listening to me, I’m not going to be interested. Don’t expect me to be exactly like you.
4. Don’t make a big deal of introducing me to everyone you know. I understand a couple of people, but please; don’t set up a welcoming line. I’m just there to check it out; I need a bit of space.
5. I’m going to be looking for genuine interest in me. I don’t want to feel like your personal salvation project or be a notch on your “I saved one” belt. If this Jesus is who you say he is, then I’m looking forward to seeing him in you. That’s how it works, right?
6. I’m going to have questions. I need truth, not your preferences or your religion, so can you just tell me what the Bible says?
7. I need to feel welcomed. Is there a time limit or something on my visit before I’m supposed to feel unwelcomed? I mean, I’ve been to other churches and there seemed to be a push for me to make up my mind or something. How long until I’m unwelcomed?
Thanks for hearing me out. I’m pretty sure I’m going to come this Sunday. But I might not.
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On May 15th Bro. Sunil Joy shared in our church.
Sunil is a missionary to rural youth.
Here are some photos from the service
Sunil and his wife Ritu are not Christians , but they have started taking an interest in the Gospel and right now they are attending a Bible camp. Do pray that they may find the truth.
Indu Aunty is almost crippled due to arthritis , but she attends church faithfully.
Praying for various needs at the end of the service.
For the next 2 Sundays I will be sharing
in the Sunday service, as Pastor
is away.
Tomorrow I will be sharing from
Phillipians 3;1
"Rejoice in the Lord always."
Sonia and Abner are leaving early
tomorrow morning.
We had lovely 3 weeks together
and they flew by so fast.
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