Saddleback Church surveyed over 8,000 people who were finishing the required membership class and asked them why they were joining the church. Here’s #2 on their list of things that were most important to them:

#2 — Worship
Worship is the second most important thing people think about when they consider joining a church. This is far more than music – the atmosphere of your church is huge. Music plays a VERY significant role. The place of worship, the intentional program, the clarity of the big idea that is being shared even people’s faces matter every Sunday morning. The church service as a whole is a deal-maker or deal-breaker in the minds of many people choosing your church. Passionate, God-centered, inspiring and authentic churches invite people in.

Youth ministry application: When someone, especially a teenager, gives you an hour of their time – make it great. Never miss an opportunity to create a moment for students to pause and listen to God. Never waste an opportunity on the platform by starting service prep on Saturday night. Plan ahead and allow people to be creative. Take risks.

Be hard on yourself and your church. How do people feel when they walk in the doors for the first time?

JG