The message of Jesus is "Good News." People are attracted to things that make them feel good. As Christians, we must confront the sins that keep us from God. That's all the more reason why your church communication should focus on the "Good News" of Jesus.
Indeed, we won't attract the hurting and lost by telling them they are going to hell or that they are a sinner. (Before I became a follower of Jesus, I already knew that! I needed someone to share some "Good News" with me.) It's just the opposite. We need to show them the love of Jesus Christ to see His great power and mercy. When they experience His love, they are drawn to Him.
Many hurting, lost, and lonely people - families - in your community need to know that your church has "Good News" to offer them through Jesus. They need hope. So, try communicating with them with these 3 elements:
1. Talk about the benefits of attending your church.
Changing how you talk about your church can often make the difference on whether or not someone walks through the doors. It is a big deal for someone to take that step. Try talking about some benefits like this:
"Our church provides a sense of community. It is a place where everyone is accepted and loved for who they are. While God loves us just the way we are, He does not want to leave us there. Instead, he wants us to grow to be more like His son Jesus. That's why we teach from the Bible, God's Word. It gives us guidance on living life the way He created us to live. Scripture tells us that His plans for us are "good, pleasing and perfect." Romans (12:2) And at our church, we want to help you discover and live the "good, pleasing and perfect" plan He has for your life."
2. Paint a Word Picture of what life looks like when someone is a part of your church.
Unfortunately, we often just spend our time and energy telling people that they should go to church. Instead, try painting a picture of how being a part of God's family changes their lives for the better. Try a different approach:
"When you walk through the doors of our church, we will make sure that you know and feel like you are a part of something special. After all, this is God's family. Our church is where you will learn about God and His love for you and get to know Him. It's also a place where you can find support and encouragement from others who are on the same journey.
3. Inspire Immediate Action
We've all tried: "Why don't you come to church this weekend" or "You should come to church this weekend." Try changing your wording in your invite just a little to inspire immediate action:
"If you attend our church, your life will be changed for the better. You will be welcomed into a community of people who love and accept you for who you are. We want to help you grow closer to God and live the life He created for you. So wake up on Monday with a new view of life! You can spend the week knowing that you are on a new journey with a God-given purpose. That your life has meaning and purpose."
Notice the shift from Sunday to Monday. Because we know the "Good News" of Jesus will change people's Mondays and beyond into eternity when they get their eyes on Jesus.
Your wording will be very different than mine, and it should be. My hope from this quick blog is to jar our minds, to expand our view. After all, you are doing fantastic work in your church and ministry. And there are people all around you that need what you have to offer them through the "Good News" of Jesus. It's easy to think that they know all the incredible benefits of attending your church and following Him, but they don't. They more than likely don't know what goes on behind the doors of your church. Let them know in an attractive way. They will be glad you did!