If it is the business of the church members to fill the church, then the question is, "How do we go about it?" Do you find yourself inviting people to your church and saying things like, "The praise band is awesome.","You should check out the kids puppet shows.", or "Our new coffee bar has the best cappuccino around."? Is your philosophy "just get them through the doors and let the professionals take over from there?" Is that the way Jesus wants us to "do church"?
What about investing your life in your neighbors, fellow PTA members or kids on the soccer team? Are you living your life with the lost in such a way that they see a difference in you? Are you joyful, peaceful and contented no matter what the circumstances? Do you give willingly of your time, money and talents? Do you do all things without complaining or grumbling? Is the gospel evident as you live before others? Maybe if we Christians started living with our faith in a sovereign God on display for all to see all of the time, we wouldn't feel the need for so many gimmicks in order to fill the seats at church on Sunday.
As those around us notice that we live our lives differently, they will begin to ask "why?' Let us be ready with an answer at all times. Know why you believe what you believe and be ready to share it with others. Then, you can invite them to join you at church and hear your preacher go about his business of proclaiming the Word to God's people. We, the church members, need to keep inviting others to fill the seats and trust God to keep them there through the work of the Holy Spirit and the words of His representative, our preachers.
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