There is a lot of discussion about the “un-churched” and the “first time” attendee as it relates to things “The Church” can do to welcome this particular group of people. There are some that believe secular music helps to create a more inviting environment, others believe that you shouldn’t use words or phrases that only “church people” would use i.e. “Blood of the lamb” or “Praise and Worship.”
The real question is “What does the 1st timer or Un-Churched person expect?” Are they not looking for something different than they are getting in the world? Are they expecting people to use words and phrases they’re not familiar with?
There is definitely a balance of Comfort vs. Confrontation. Creating an environment that is comfortable and welcoming for the “Seeker” vs. an environment that confronts people with the truth. That confrontational environment will have worship, praying, sharing of scripture, participation, community and many other things that help engage people in their journey of a growing relationship with Christ.
I believe when un-churched or new people attend church, they expect and want to see something different than what they see in the world. They also expect to hear and see things they are not familiar with and that’s perfectly okay.
Looking through The Eyes Of The Un-Churched… What do you think they see, what do you think they expect?
