Should churches be seeker-friendly?
The question of whether churches should be “seeker-friendly” is a complex one with arguments on both sides. Those in favor of seeker-friendly churches believe they are effective at reaching unbelievers and introducing them to the gospel message. Critics argue seeker-friendly approaches water down theology and compromise biblical truths. There are reasonable points on both sides of this issue. Ultimately, Scripture should guide churches in how to best fulfill the Great Commission while remaining faithful to God’s Word.
What is a “seeker-friendly” church?
The seeker-friendly church model aims to provide an inviting, comfortable environment for non-Christians exploring Christianity. Elements usually include modern music, creative multimedia, and practical messages addressing everyday life. The goal is removing barriers to those outside the church. SERVICES ARE designed for the “unchurched” rather than believers. Seeker-friendly churches hope to connect with non-Christians and ultimately lead them to salvation.
Potential benefits of the seeker-friendly approach:
1. Outreach oriented – Seeker-friendly churches are intensely focused on outreach, evangelism and introducing non-believers to Jesus. This aligns with the Great Commission call for Christians to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
2. Culturally relevant – Seeker-friendly churches use language, music and communication styles that resonate with the unchurched. Proponents believe contextualizing the Gospel’s presentation allows it to engage people where they are.
3. Greater openness to newcomers – Visitors may feel more comfortable in a seeker-friendly setting. The casual atmosphere, practical sermons and concert-like worship help skeptics let down their guard. This can lead to receptivity.
4. Entry point for discipleship – Seeker-friendly models provide a starting point to meet unbelievers and begin walking with them on a discipleship journey. Once introduced to Christ, ongoing doctrinal teaching can follow.
5. Effective evangelism method – Leaders of growing seeker churches say their models work for reaching the lost. If true, this upholds the mission of evangelism and the Great Commission.
Cautions regarding the seeker-friendly approach:
1. Diluted theology – Critics argue seeker-friendly services often downplay difficult or complex theological truths to avoid offending unbelievers. Important doctrines like sin, hell and judgment may get minimal emphasis.
2. Consumer mentality – Some express concern the seeker-friendly approach fosters a “consumer” mentality toward church. When non-Christians are treated as spiritual prospects, the church can become man-centered rather than God-centered.
3. Lack of discipleship – Seeker services major on conversion. But some argue they fail at the equally important task of discipleship. Saints don’t get the doctrinal teaching and training they need to mature.
4. No biblical mandate – Nowhere does Scripture instruct the church to adapt itself to unbelievers. Rather, saints are called to be set apart from the world and boldly proclaim the Gospel (2 Cor. 6:17, Acts 4:31).
5. Church discipline weakened – Since seekers are unfamiliar with church discipline, it is avoided in seeker models. This misses the critical discipleship element of correcting sin and rebellion in the church body (Matt. 18:15-20).
6. Christians needs minimized – Some believers argue seeker models neglect the unique needs of the Saints to emphasize outreach. The worship, sermons and programs cater to unbelievers at the expense of deepening and strengthening faith.
Assessing the strengths and weaknesses
Upon analysis, the seeker-friendly approach has both strengths and weaknesses. The passion to reach the lost and user-friendly presentation of the Gospel are positives. But the potential doctrinal compromise and lack of discipleship raise legitimate concerns.
Perhaps the optimal solution is balancing evangelistic zeal with doctrinal depth and discipleship. Outreach to seekers could be the entry point and initial emphasis. But seekers then should transition to services, classes and groups focused on biblical truth, theological growth and becoming devoted followers of Christ.
This balanced model upholds the Great Commission call to evangelism (Matt. 28:19-20). But it recognizes conversion as only the beginning of the discipleship process. Evangelism and outreach provide the church “front door.” Deeper nurturing and equipping of believers constitutes the vital spiritual growth happening inside.
What the Bible says about seeker sensitivity
Key Bible passages provide wisdom for how churches can be sensitive to seekers without compromising doctrine or discipleship.
1. Romans 14 – Accommodate weaker brothers:
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.” (Romans 14:1)
“Make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)
The Bible encourages sensitivity toward new believers and “weaker” brothers. As much as possible, churches should avoid creating unnecessary hindrances or obstacles.
2. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – Adapt for the sake of the Gospel:
“Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law, so as to win those under the law.” (1 Cor. 9:19-20)
For evangelistic purposes, Paul was willing to flex his personal freedoms. Churches must discern when certain methods, music or cultural adaptation may help communicate the Gospel.
3. Galatians 1:6-9 – Don’t distort the Gospel:
“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you…and turning to a different gospel which is really no gospel at all.” (Gal. 1:6-7)
In adapting for seekers, churches must be extremely careful not to distort or water down the true saving Gospel of Jesus Christ.
4. Hebrews 5:11-6:3 – Move seekers to maturity:
“We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again.” (Heb. 5:11-12)
The author of Hebrews scolds readers for stagnating in spiritual immaturity. Seekers must not remain forever in the elementary stage.
5. 2 Timothy 4:2-4 – Preach the Word:
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Tim. 4:2)
“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” (2 Tim. 4:3)
Pastors must not simply tickle ears with feel-good sermons. They are called to preach the entirety of God’s Word – including difficult doctrines.
6. Titus 2:1 – Teach sound doctrine:
“You, however, must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine.” (Titus 2:1)
Titus reminds that what is taught in church must align with sound doctrine – not be dictated by the wishes of unbelievers.
So in summary, Scripture allows adapting non-essentials for the sake of seekers and the Gospel. But it forbids distorting the Gospel itself or failing to move seekers to greater maturity through sound doctrine.
Wise churches will aim for balance. They should create an inviting entry point through seeker services. But seekers must quickly move on to solid biblical teaching and discipleship that may be harder to accept.
We must speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15). Lovingly bringing people to Jesus is crucial. But so is teaching the sometimes difficult truths that produce maturity and Christ-likeness.
How churches can have effective outreach and discipleship
Given these biblical principles, here are some suggestions for churches seeking to integrate effective outreach and discipleship:
1. Have a designated seeker service. One weekly service can be tailored for unbelievers – without compromising the Gospel itself. Use culturally current methods and engaging communication without diluting the core message.
2. Designate the rest of your services and ministries for believers and spiritual growth. The other services, classes and small groups can focus on the doctrinal and discipleship needs of followers of Christ. Include challenging teaching that moves believers from spiritual infancy to maturity.
3. Ensure a clear path to maturity. Provide an intentional track for seekers to transition into substantive Bible study, discipleship training and doctrinally solid preaching. Assimilate new converts into the overall church body and its focus on maturity.
4. Affirm the whole counsel of God. Even in seeker services and initial discipleship classes, affirm biblical truths in their fullness. Avoid implying hard teachings won’t apply. Deliver milk with a commitment to eventually provide meat.
5. Equip the saints. Provide training for believers to explain and defend historic Christian truths. Challenge them to grow into teachers who disciple and mentor others – including new converts.
6. Center on Jesus. Keep Christ’s redemptive work the main message. Avoid making seekers the primary focus. Remember the Holy Spirit – not methods alone – draws unbelievers to faith (John 6:44).
7. Pray without ceasing. Only God’s Spirit can produce true conversions and lasting fruit (1 Cor. 3:7). Pray for Him to draw seekers and mold believers’ character. Trust the Lord to build His Church His way.
Conclusion
The question of seeker-sensitive churches is complex. On one hand, churches should remove unnecessary barriers to unbelievers hearing the Gospel. But in reaching seekers, they must not compromise or downplay core doctrines. Nor can they fail at the equally important task of equipping believers to maturity.
The body of Christ needs both evangelism to outsiders and edification for insiders. With wisdom and balance, churches can contextualize their presentation of the unchanging Gospel without compromising its truths. They can provide an appealing front door for seekers as long as solid teaching and discipleship guide them through maturing “rooms” inside.
By following biblical principles, avoiding unhelpful extremes and relying on the Holy Spirit, churches can reach the lost without losing sight of their crucial role to build up believers. They can welcome seekers while challenging both new converts and veteran Christians to grow strong in sound doctrine and the timeless truths of God’s Word.