The Biblical Way to Grow Our Congregation

How Do We Get New Members in the Congregation?

It’s a question many believers ask, and the answer is simple: Evangelism.

Evangelism is the proclamation of the good news of Jesus Christ—His life, death, and resurrection—calling people to repentance, faith, and salvation in Him. It is not just a suggestion—it is a command. Jesus Himself told us to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). The need for evangelism has not changed, and it never will. The message of salvation is still the same, and people still need to hear it.

The Role of Evangelism in Growth

One of the primary ways a congregation grows is through new converts. This happens when we take seriously the call to evangelize. But there is a simple formula for this growth:

Prayer + Prayer + Labor = New Converts

Yes, prayer is mentioned twice—because it is twice as important as our labor! Without a heart of prayer, our efforts will be in vain. If you do not have a genuine concern for people, you will not lead them to Christ. Evangelism begins with a burden for souls.

Another key to growth is welcoming those who need a place to worship. Many people are searching for a spiritual home, a place where they feel connected, loved, and encouraged in their walk with Christ. A congregation must be that place.

Overcoming Common Discouragements

Many believers get discouraged because they feel overwhelmed by the Great Commission. They read Jesus’ words to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19) and apply it literally to themselves alone. But the commission was given to the entire body of Christ. No one person can reach the whole world—but Christ can through His Church.

Your responsibility is to work within your sphere of life. Your family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances—these are the people God has placed in your path. Your job is to share the Gospel with them.

Practical Steps to Growth

If you truly desire to see the chairs in the congregation filled, it will not happen by accident. It takes prayer and intentional invitations to worship.

Inviting one person a month is not enough. Nearly every person you encounter should be presented with the opportunity to worship with you.
Do not let the enemy trick you into thinking someone won’t be interested based on their appearance or situation.
Do not let being busy rob you of the opportunity to extend an invitation.

The Urgency of Evangelism in Our Time

We are living in an era where evangelism is being abandoned by many. Once strong in their outreach, many mainline Protestant groups—including Methodist, Presbyterian, and Churches of Christ—have backed away from active soul-winning. Congregations that have embraced progressive or liberal theology have shifted their focus toward social programs, or pastoral interactions only, while neglecting the Great Commission. The result? Many religious groups no longer sees evangelism as necessary. This hole in outreach has created a great opportunity for us to fill over the next 3.5 years.

A growing number of millennial-led movements reject the idea of sharing their faith, having been taught that it is “wrong” or “intolerant” in today’s post-evangelical culture. Doctrinal shifts have encouraged people to remain silent, convincing them that faith is a private matter rather than a call to proclaim Christ openly. In fact, I have personally spoken with two different pastors whose churches have outright rejected evangelism, instructing their congregations to stop testifying.

This silence is dangerous. It is akin to what Jesus warned about in Luke 19:40—if we remain silent, the very stones will cry out. To be ashamed of Christ is to invite His rejection (Luke 9:26). The church is not meant to sit idly while the world drifts further into spiritual darkness.

A deep love and care for people will compel you to action. If you truly believe in the power of the Gospel, you cannot remain silent. God only has one location in each community where truth is shared over the pulpits, and it is our commision to bring in those around us and to extend an invitation to salvation, to introduce them to the only hope that exists in Jesus Christ. Evangelism is not optional; it is our calling. Will you rise to the occasion?

People Still Want Salvation

I have never bought into the idea that people today desire salvation less than those in the past. The reality is that distractions are more prevalent. The world is filled with noise, entertainment, and technology that demand attention. It takes effort to break through and get someone’s focus on eternal matters.

But the truth remains—people want what Christ offers. They long for genuine friendships, salvation, eternal life, and freedom from the chains of sin and despair.

And you—you may be the only person who presents them with the hope of Jesus Christ and the love of a church family.

Call to Action: Take the Next Step in Evangelism

So, what will you do? Will you commit to praying for the lost? Will you take action and invite someone to worship? It’s time to move from desire to deliberate action in evangelism.

Here’s how you can make a real difference this week:

Hand out invitational cards – The congregation has provided cards that make inviting people easier. Keep a few with you at all times and be ready to share them when the opportunity arises. A simple, “We’d love to have you join us this Sunday!” can open the door for someone to experience Christ’s love.
Give out a cool pen – These pens aren’t just practical—they serve as a reminder. When someone uses it, they’ll see the church’s contact information and think about your invitation. Sometimes, a small gesture like this can spark curiosity and lead someone to visit.
Personally invite someone to the next worship service – People are more likely to attend when they receive a heartfelt, direct invitation. Let them know what to expect, offer to sit with them, and follow up with a reminder before Sunday.
Encourage fellowship beyond Sunday – Some people might hesitate to visit a service but would feel more comfortable at a smaller gathering. Invite them to spend time with some of the saints, whether it’s over coffee, a meal, or a casual gathering. Relationships often lead people to Christ.
Promote the upcoming annual fellowship event – Large events create opportunities for connection and a sense of belonging. Encourage people to attend, emphasizing that it’s a great chance to meet new friends and experience the love of Christ in a welcoming environment.

The enemy would love for us to hesitate, to doubt, or to assume people aren’t interested. But we are called to plant the seed—God brings the increase.

This week, make it your mission to reach out, extend an invitation, and trust that God will work in their hearts.

Conclusion

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few (Matthew 9:37). It is time to labor. It is time to pray. It is time to invite. And when we do, God will be faithful to bring the increase.

Let’s fill the building—not just for numbers, but for souls who need salvation. The time is now.