Am I going to be singled out as a visitor? Not at the Decker Prairie Church of Christ. Nobody here will ask you to stand up or hand you a microphone, and nobody points you out from the front. You’ll get a handshake at the door and then the freedom to sit and listen. We handle guests this way on purpose, and the reasons are in the Bible, so let’s walk through the passages and then through the morning itself.
1 Corinthians 14:24-25, Outsiders Belong in the Room
Paul expected unbelievers to be sitting in the assembly at Corinth, and he cared about what they’d meet there: “But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship God and declare that God is really among you” ().
It is our aim that the word of God convicts those who join our worship. We want them to see that God is at work within our group.
Hebrews 13:2, Hospitality Toward Strangers
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (). Hospitality means making a stranger at ease, and here’s what it looks like at our building. Somebody meets you at the door with a handshake and possibly a visitors card. They will offer to point you toward a seat or the restrooms. No special section for guests. Sit anywhere you like.
We also have a QR code digital visitor card that will be shown during the service. Filling one out is entirely your choice. It provides an opportunity for you to give feedback on your experience at Decker Prairie.
James 2:1, No Partiality
James warns against the opposite mistake, sizing people up by their clothes or their bank account: “My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory” (). Whoever pulls into our lot, in whatever they’re wearing, gets received the same way.
What to Expect in the Service
You can participate at your level of comfort. When we observe the Lord’s Supper, you are welcome to join us if you’d like. The collection of money is for members who’ve committed to the work of this congregation, so a guest isn’t expected to give (). Our singing is the whole congregation’s voice with no instruments, and you’re welcome to listen or join in.
Near the end of the sermon comes the invitation, when the preacher offers anyone who wants to respond a chance to come forward while we sing. Most Sundays nobody does. Staying seated is what nearly everyone around you is doing, and you should feel no need to respond during the service, unless you truly feel moved to do so.
Romans 15:7, Welcomed the Way Christ Welcomes
After the closing prayer, people will come say hello and try to get to know you. That’s just how our people are. If you left contact information, expect a note or a call within the week to say thanks for coming. If you’d rather not hear from anyone, tell us, and we’ll honor it.
Paul’s instruction to the church in Rome is what we’re aiming at: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (). Christ never embarrassed anyone who came to Him. We’d like to offer the same kind of welcome.
Keep Studying, With Us if You Like
There are 260 to 270 of us meeting on Hardin Store Road in Magnolia, and every one of us walked through that door as a stranger at some point. Feel free to reach out and Plan your visit so we’ll know to look for you.
For what the Bible says about becoming a Christian, start here.
When we meet:
- Sunday: Worship 10am, Bible Class 5pm
- Wednesday: Bible Class 7:30 pm
