OUTREACH vs. "INREACH"

Church and ministry (Outreach) are 2 separate things. The church needs to stop trying to get people to come to them by using their "appealing", comfortable atmosphere tactics and stop worrying about filling the seats in a church building.


The "church" needs to concern themselves with their attendance in ministry.

Church: Defined by Webster, "1) An edifice for religious worship; the chief services held there. 2) a body or organization of Christian believers."

Outreach: Defined by Webster, "Extension of services to nontraditional recipients."

Churches are trying too hard at "INREACH" and have lost focus on OUTREACH. According to Webster a church is a body of Christians. Church is designed for Christians to come together in fellowship and to train people to be disciples. Where in the Bible does it say to attract people to come to church? In fact, it says TO GO into all the nations and share the gospel. I don't see where in that statement where it says "Go bring people to church". Think about it, when you invite your friends and family to church is it because you are too afraid to share the gospel yourself and you are putting that responsibility all on the pastor?

Many people are turned away by Christians and have no desire to attend church because Christians aren't upholding the very responsibilities that God has given them. Many people do not want to go to church and they may never even set foot in one. So, is it acceptable that they should not then hear the gospel? It sure shouldn't be! Getting them into a church building is not the answer. God's love and His Word  can be best shared by sure example and meeting people where they are in society. So, should we really be focused on making our church buildings and programs attractive with the purpose of making a quota of most seats filled? Is this teaching Christians to be lazy in sharing their faith and the gospel with others?

What is your response to that?