Getting Disillusioned People to Open Themselves to True Fellowship

In a previous post we looked at possible causes for the decline of true fellowship in the church where it was suggested that sometimes people become disillusioned with the church and therefore seek to distance themselves.

We live in a world where corruption and self-centered politics are everywhere, including the church.  The expectation, however, is that the church should be exempt and so disillusionment comes with the resultant attitude of “why bother?”  Problems in the church, however, are nothing new.  Read through the New Testament Epistles and you will encounter a church that was far from perfect.

The harsh reality is that we live in a fallen world.  Though redeemed, Christians still must contend with the old sin nature.  Read Romans 7 for a good description of that inner battle.  If not walking in the Spirit, Christians too can fall into temptation and live for self; hence the need for true fellowship.  We need to be spurring one another on rather than spurning one another.  We are all a work in progress.

How can we help disillusioned people be open to fellowship?

If we follow these seven suggestions, we’ll begin to change the tide in people’s feelings toward the church. Of course, we must follow through with consistent and persistent actions and reactions as described.

1. Do not be afraid to apologize for wrongs done in the church, to ask for forgiveness.  Worse than making a mistake is being too proud to admit it.
2. Be patient, kind, and respectful toward them.  Criticizing them for how they feel will probably only make it worse.
3. Be an example.  Model forgiveness and true fellowship.
4. Teach on the role of forgiveness in relationships.
5. Work at reconciliation and restoration among believers before irreparable damage is done (Phil. 4:2-3).  What one or two people do can affect people’s perception of the whole church.
6. Compel them with the irresistible love of Jesus.  Let His love flow through you so much that people want more. “Perfect love drives out fear” (1 Jn. 4:8).
7. Don’t give up on them.  You’ll only be living up to their expectations if you do.