9 Steps for New Members

By Pastor Tom Anderson

Congratulations, you joined the church! Now what? There are some simple things that everyone should be doing to grow in grace and holiness. These things apply not just to newbies but to everyone.

1. Read your Bible! National surveys show that the number one way people experience spiritual growth is through reading the Bible. Yet, the surveys show that only 35% of church goers read the Bible at least once a week. Amazing. We know what works and yet we don’t do it! The best path to grow closer to God is to open your Bible each day and read. For beginners, I recommend reading through the Gospels–Matthew, Mark, Luke and John– one chapter a day.

2. Attend worship regularly. Did you know that during the pandemic of 2020 the only group of people who actually improved in mental health were those who went to church regularly? A regular rhythm of weekly worship is good for your body, mind and soul. Don’t skip this–show up weekly and you’ll feel the results.

3. Be an encourager. Paul wrote to the Romans, “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.” (Romans 1:11-12) We all know that negative talk, and complaining attitudes are contagious but so is encouragement. Encourage others around you in life and faith and it will spread.

4. Invite others to church. Sharing faith with others is the duty and joy of every believer. The greatest feeling is to see others light up with the fulfilling life of being in a faith community.

5. Share Jesus with others. Most Christians don’t do this. It doesn’t have to be a struggle to speak of the joy you have in God. Let it emerge naturally in conversation as you speak of events and experiences in church. People will ask you questions about your church and your faith. When they do, speak from your own personal experience. They’ll appreciate it. Most people actually want to have meaningful spiritual conversations with others who have faith.

6. Join a group. The praise team would love to have you sing! Come to the family “Eagle Experience”. Get in on the Ladies brunch. Plan on a fall Bible Study. Sign up for a Thrive Group.

7. Pray every day for every ministry in the church. Pray for each staff member. Pray for me, your pastor! Pray for each name on the prayer list in the bulletin. One of the most encouraging things you can say to anyone is “I’m praying for you each day.”

8. Give regularly to Thrive Church. This is your statement of faith in the mission of Jesus Christ. This is your investment in the Kingdom of God. Jesus said, “Wherever your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” If you put some of your treasure into God's mission, your heart will be that much closer to Him! Give online. Set up a repeat giving weekly or monthly.

9. Volunteer. Be a greeter. Bake cookies. Pull weeds. Help with Thrive kids. Trim branches. Cook for the outdoor service. Be a row captain for Back to Church Sunday. Get trained as a Thrive Group leader. Help clean the church on Thursday mornings. Every member should find a ministry.

Church membership is essential to the life of Christian faith. Enjoy the fellowship with others. Be committed together to the mission. Be an active agent for good in our neighborhood.