Values: Part 3
Recently our church rolled out a set of four values that define our mission. These are not new values, just updated ways of expressing the principles that have guided us since our inception in 2002. In this series, we’re asking two key questions:
- How does an inside-the-walls ministry (like guest services) fit in an outwardly-focused church?
- How should a specific ministry check its own identity to make sure it fits the church’s overall mission?
The Summit’s third value:
We make disciples, not just converts.
As we updated our values to define our mission, we knew that an updated definition of a disciple was necessary, as well. We wanted to clearly define what it looks like to become a new creation. We can’t be satisfied with simply seeing someone repeat the sinner’s prayer. We have to show them how to walk with Jesus for the rest of their lives.
Our team chose to focus on five identities, which is certainly not an exhaustive list, but those five identities summarize much of what the Bible teaches about being a Christ follower:
A disciple is a worshiper, family member, servant, steward, and witness.
How do these five identities inform a guest services culture?
1. A disciple is a worshiper.
Our Guest Services Team creates an environment where Christ followers can worship without distraction and where non-believers can easily and comfortably observe worship. By removing distractions and breaking down barriers, we help pave the way to a robust worship experience.
2. A disciple is a family member.
One of our team’s goals is to make every guest feel like a part of the family. We know that many of them are not yet a part of the family of faith, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t help those outsiders make their way inside. By joyously and generously welcoming them, we help them move from stranger, to friend, to the ultimate goal of creating a disciple.
3. A disciple is a servant.
Easy win, here. The Guest Services team provides an easy-access opportunity for a brand-new disciple to give of themselves for the good of others. Parking cars, opening doors, and scrubbing sinks are practical, immediate ways that a disciple can begin to serve the larger body of Christ.
4. A disciple is a steward.
We want lifers on our Guest Services teams. But we also love to see people use their time on the Parking Team or Seating Team as a testing ground. We don’t want them to just serve for 90 minutes on the weekend, but leverage every part of their lives for the glory of God. 1 Peter 4:10 reminds us that each person has a gift, and they should use it.
5. A disciple is a witness.
I believe that a healthy guest services culture will provide opportunities to proclaim Christ to our guests on the weekend. However, as disciples recognize their first four identities, identity #5 means that their entire week becomes an opportunity to serve as witness. What better way to open conversations for the gospel than to tangibly serve our neighbors, co-workers, and friends through small acts of hospitality?
See all posts in the series:
- Values: the Intro
- Part 1: We prioritize the gospel above all.
- Part 2: We do whatever it takes to reach all people.
- Part 3: We make disciples, not just converts.
- Part 4: We send every member.
- Values: the Outro
design credit: Jason Mathis
