So as a church leader, you have a desire to reach unreached people with the good news of Jesus.
Reaching the Unreached
But how do you know your church is truly reaching the unreached?
First, you can (and should) use data to determine whether you’re attracting transfer growth or truly unchurched individuals. Your welcome card can capture that data. For example, over half the people who come to our church for the first time check the boxes on our welcome card that indicate they don’t attend church or only attend once or twice a year. We consider that to be ‘unchurched.’
It’s not just the fact that people say they don’t attend church—you can also tell by how they shift the dynamic of your church.
Your church will not be the same anymore. And that’s where it gets hard for many congregations and leaders.
Preparing to reach the unchurched is one thing, but when unchurched people actually start connecting, things change deeply.
Here are seven signs your church is truly reaching the unreached:
1. People Aren’t Singing Much During the Service
Christians are among the few who sing corporately on a weekly basis. Unchurched people may enjoy the music, but they won’t necessarily sing. That’s okay.
We’ve found that limiting music to three or four songs allows Christians to worship, unchurched people to observe, and everyone to encounter Jesus.
2. Long-Time Church People Are Unsettled
Some long-time members may resist the changes that come with reaching unchurched people. They may be uncomfortable sitting next to those who don’t look or behave like them.
This is a good sign. It means you’re reaching people who need Jesus. Some members may leave, but others will celebrate that the church is finally on mission.
3. Irregular Attendance Is Regular
Unchurched people often have no precedent for weekly church attendance. Think of it like joining a gym—going once or twice a week is a huge step for them.
Instead of focusing on attendance, focus on engagement. In today’s world, engagement fuels attendance, not the other way around.
4. Your Tidy Categories Are Falling Apart
As diverse people arrive—economically, ethnically, morally—your tidy boxes begin to break down. That’s a great thing.
Your theology doesn’t have to change, but your compassion should. Easy answers give way to involved conversations. That’s how growth happens.
5. You’re Getting Surprisingly Candid Questions
Unchurched people are often open about their pain and confusion. Have counselors ready and address real-life issues from the platform. When you speak into real life, people listen.
6. Everyone’s Tolerance for Hypocrisy Is Plummeting
Unchurched people won’t tolerate hypocrisy. They will leave if it isn’t addressed. That’s a good thing. Let’s all get honest—God uses broken people, not perfect ones.
7. You See Real Life-Change
Life-change is the best sign. Unchurched people come to investigate Jesus. Many end up following Him deeply.
Not everyone will decide to believe, but many will. Track their progress over the years—you’ll be amazed.
See Any Signs?
These are seven signs that show your church is actually connecting with unchurched people.
What signs have you seen? Share your experience in the comments.
