Podcast Episode #427
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There are many myths that are pervasive which keep church members from actively inviting guests to church or initiating gospel conversations with them. Today, we debunk them.
Some highlights from today’s episode include:
- Following up with guests is not the same thing as church outreach.
- I’m afraid too many churches prematurely abandoned systematic outreach and didn’t replace it with anything.
- Non-Christians are often more receptive to the gospel than we think they will be.
- Don’t be afraid to use theological words in your preaching, just explain them when you do.
The six myths we cover are:
- Outreach is the same as visiting guests.
- If you invite them, they will not come.
- The majority of non-Christians are resistant to the gospel.
- The sermon cannot be too deep or it will turn off non-Christians
- Attractional outreach is the most effective.
- Most church members will reach out to their friends, neighbors, and acquaintances naturally.
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Feedback
If you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here at ThomRainer.com. If we use your question, you’ll receive a free copy of Becoming a Welcoming Church.
Hi
Do you provide transcripts of these videos? It would really be helpful, as I find it far quicker to read (rather than listen) to discover the points of most interest to me? It was also be great to share these with others in a written transcript form.
Many thanks
Rob
Just from reading the text above (I haven’t listened to the podcast yet), I have to say a loud and clear, “AMEN!” I began a new outreach ministry this past week which has debunked every single one of these “myths.”
I am listening to the comments. I don’t think it was too kind to say “well, maybe a few people are dumb” even in jest when referring to the preaching when guests are present. But overall, this is good stuff.
Hi everyone,
I agree on the transcripts. They are very helpful.
Dr John Piper and the Desiring God website team regularly post transcripts, so there is probably some software available to convert the audio to text.
Thanks
Gary
Southern NH, USA
Hi again all,
I am from New England and I do find that many people do not come to visit local church worship services when I invite them.
However, I find many people are open to talk about Jesus and are happy to hear about my experiences in my local church.
My approach has been to try and develop deeper relationships and pray for the people that I am reaching out to.
Are things different in other parts of the country?
Thanks
Gary
Southern NH, USA
Gary, I’m north of you (Baptist Church of Franklin), and I agree with you. It’s rocky territory up here. Definitely post-Christian, as opposed to (I’m guessing) the Midwest/Bible Belt areas Dr. Rainer tends to speak to (which at least still have some element of cultural Christianity, even among the unchurched).