Walking into a new church can be a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether you’ve moved to a new city or are exploring a different congregation, making connections can be both thrilling and daunting. In this short post, I want to give you practical and spiritual guidance on how to make new friends at church, rooted in biblical principles of community, love, and sound doctrine.
The early Christian church, as depicted in Acts, was marked by fellowship, breaking bread together, prayer, mutual support, and steadfastness in the apostles’ teaching (Acts 2:42-47). This vibrant community wasn’t built overnight. It took intentionality, openness, love, and commitment to biblical truth.
So how can you, as a newcomer, foster such connections in your new church?
1. Embrace the Opportunity:
- Attend social gatherings, small group studies, and volunteer events. These are perfect places to meet like-minded people who share your commitment to biblical principles.
- Approach others with a smile and an open heart. Remember, everyone was new once, and most people are eager to welcome newcomers.
2. Engage with Genuine Interest:
- Find common interests by joining ministries or groups that resonate with your passions and uphold solid doctrine.
- Be proactive in following up. Send a text, make a call, or connect on social media. Building friendships takes time and effort.
3. Encourage Yourself and Others:
- If you feel shy or overwhelmed, take a moment to pray and ask God for courage and guidance. Remember, He is with you.
- Encourage others by showing interest in their lives, offering help, and being a good listener. Your kindness can make someone else’s day better.
Jesus’ life was marked by genuine relationships. He dined with tax collectors, conversed with Samaritans, and invested in His disciples. He didn’t wait for others to approach Him; He reached out with love and grace, always grounded in truth.
We are called to follow His example, using our time, energy, and gifts to build relationships that honor God and are anchored in sound doctrine. It’s not about impressing others but connecting with them on a human and spiritual level.
So if you find yourself in a new church, take a deep breath, pray for guidance, and dive into the beautiful journey of making friends. Your willingness to embrace, engage, and encourage others, while upholding biblical truth, can lead to friendships that enrich your life and glorify God.
Prayer: Lord, guide me as I step into this new community. Help me to be open, loving, and intentional in building friendships that honor You and are rooted in Your Word. Give me the courage to reach out and the wisdom to connect in ways that reflect Your love and truth. Amen.
(Recommended for Further Reading: Acts 2:42-47; Romans 12:10-13; Hebrews 10:24-25; 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
