What steps can we take to ensure new believers feel accepted and supported? Seeing the Challenge in Acts 9:26 “ When he arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.” Identify the Barriers New Believers Face • Fear and mistrust from others • Doubts about the genuineness of their conversion • Isolation from their previous circles yet not fully welcomed into the new Follow Barnabas’ Example of Advocacy (Acts 9:27) • Personally vouch for the newcomer’s testimony • Introduce them to established believers and leadership • Highlight God’s work in their life so others can rejoice Offer Immediate, Intentional Hospitality • Invite them into homes, Bible studies, and meals (Acts 2:46) • Share personal stories of God’s faithfulness to foster connection • Provide transportation or help navigating church activities Establish Consistent Encouragement • “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Send a mid-week message or call to check in • Celebrate spiritual milestones—baptism, first time serving, answered prayer Teach the Assurance of Acceptance in Christ • “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.” (Romans 15:7) • Emphasize their position as full members of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19) • Remind them that salvation rests on Christ’s finished work, not performance Create Opportunities for Meaningful Service • Pair them with a mature believer in a ministry team (Philippians 2:1-4) • Start with simple tasks that match their gifts and passions • Celebrate their contributions publicly to reinforce belonging Build Regular, Small-Group Community • Meet for prayer and Scripture (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Encourage honest sharing of struggles and victories • Keep groups small enough for everyone to be known and loved Model a Culture of Grace • Speak words that multiply grace, not suspicion (Ephesians 4:29) • Address failures gently, restoring rather than shaming (Galatians 6:1) • Maintain confidentiality and trust when counseling Pray With and For Them • Pray aloud together, showing them they are included in the family conversation with God • Keep a list of their requests and follow up on answers, demonstrating tangible care When we combine Barnabas-style advocacy, intentional hospitality, steady encouragement, and practical involvement, new believers move quickly from outsiders looking in to brothers and sisters rooted and flourishing in the body of Christ. |
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