I was visiting with a customer recently and we were talking about their church’s philosophy on getting people involved in the church. During the conversation it became clear to both of us that, although their church offered many opportunities to get involved, there was not a real push from church leadership to encourage any involvement. In other words, it was a “field of dreams” approach to assimilation – offer it and they will participate. The real “Dr. Phil” question is, “How’s that working for you?” Or more appropriate. “How’s that working for them – people who are new to the church?”
One of the differences about churches that I have noticed is their approach to assimilation; some view it as an active process and others view it passively. In older established churches, the assumption is that the congregation is made up of established Christians who are well equipped to decide how much or how quickly they should move towards being FTDC (Full Time Disciples of Christ). Newer, more outreach focused churches – those focused on seekers and the unchurched – take a more proactive role in assimilation. These churches encourage more involvement on a certain timeframe assuming that the person may not understand the expectations laid out in Scripture. Christianity is meant to be an active way of life through serving and giving.
According to a study by George Barna documented in his book How to Increase Giving in Your Church, a benefit of increased involvement in church activities from Bible studies to small groups to volunteering is an increase in giving. People fund ministries they believe in. If this is true, perhaps to improve the financial resources available to a ministry, churches that approach assimilation passively should rethink their approach to be more active.
Have a great Easter!
Grace to you as you go out to be active Christians,
jhook