"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:19-20
Notes From Brother Ronnie Owens
Praise the Lord! I'm excited! After 40-plus years in ministry, and after being in thousands of churches over those years, I still remember a few of my first church visits when I was lost. I remember wondering if they would want me or if they would accept me. I also remember wondering if they would judge me or treat me badly.
After all these years and several experiences of being in church as a visitor, I have a few thoughts about how we can make lost people or unchurched people feel welcome.
We should pray before people come to church that God would bring lost people to our churches. Then we should pray for them as they attend our services. Pray that God would touch their hearts and convict them about their need for a Savior.
We should also be friendly and courteous to all of our guests. We should smile and offer any assistance they might need. For instance, we can show them where Sunday School classes are or where the Nursery is located. We should invite them to sit with us, but preferably not on the back row. Don't forget to include visitors in your conversations after services are over.
Remember the things we do may influence someone's eternity. Praying for you, your church family, and for souls to be saved and baptized.
