Editor’s Note: Drawing on 50 years of ministry, retired pastor L. Lee Larson offers his perspective on helping new members find belonging and purpose in the church. What has helped people grow as disciples in your congregation? We welcome your experiences and ideas at info@nwadventists.com.
A general who sends troops into battle understands a simple truth: The better trained, equipped and motivated the soldiers are, the more successful the mission will be. The same principle applies to the church. Every individual must know the mission of the church and understand that they themselves are the church. The word “church” refers to a called-out individual, not merely a building or an institution.
Anyone who joins a church or is baptized into it should receive guidance in understanding the commitments of membership and encouragement to fulfill them to the best of their ability. This includes recognizing that the Holy Spirit has given them a spiritual gift and that this gift is meant to be used to strengthen the Body and advance its mission.
In many churches today, people are brought into membership — whether by transfer or baptism — without any clear expectations. Without that guidance, members may settle into attending without discovering how they can contribute to the church’s life and mission.
Ellen G. White offered a sobering warning 127 years ago that invites us to reflect on how we prepare people for baptism and nurture their spiritual growth: “The new birth is a rare experience in this age of the world. This is the reason why there are so many perplexities in the church. Many, so many, who assume the name of Christ are unsanctified and unholy. They have been baptized, but they were buried alive. Self did not die, and therefore they did not rise to newness of life in Christ” (Letters and Manuscripts, MS 148).
Here are four suggestions for helping new members grow in faith and become actively involved:
- Orientation: Offer a class that explains the church’s mission, beliefs and pathways to involvement.
- Clear expectations: Teach what membership means regarding attendance, tithing, giving, serving and spiritual growth.
- Mentoring: Pair new members with seasoned believers who can walk with them.
- Open dialogue: Provide space for honest questions. What does it mean to belong to this church family? Where do I go when I need help or clarity?
