We know building relationships is the best way to make disciples of Jesus Christ. The people we choose to build relationships with makes an impact whether or not our church is actually growing and making more disciples of Jesus. Making more disciples is commonly called church growth. Church growth is studied by many organizations domestically and internationally. Each organization has its own prescription for how to grow disciples and a local church. I think it's important to discover the data they all have in common.

LifeWay Research has put together some interesting results from their expansive research. You can review it herehttp://www.backtochurch.com/participate/resources/statistics.

The data revealed some exciting truth:

1. Most people come to church because of a personal invitation.
2. 7 out of 10 unchurched people have never been invited to church in their whole lives.
3. Younger adults, 18-35, would consider returning to church if someone they knew asked them to come.

Our Open House series is an opportunity for you to invite someone to attend church with you. The Sunday morning messages will include some of the most beloved scripture in the New Testament. The goal is to personally identify God’s desire for a relationship with us not promote religion. The Bible describes Jesus as a man who attracted sinners, tax collectors, Samaritans, people confused about faith and those who are lost. We want to provide a welcoming place for people to explore what the Bible actually says about Jesus and consider what it can mean to develop a relationship with him. We challenge you to identify some of the unchurched, non-believer or formerly-churched people in your life and invite them to attend worship with you on Sunday. Check out our ministry areas devoted to children, youth and adult with them. Find out what we love about our church. Let's grow together.

And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:47 NIV

-Pastor Jen