The only constant in this world is change, it’s been said. And it’s true. As steady as we try to hold the plow, the landscape of our world is continually shifting, even if we wish it weren’t.
As people committed to reaching people with the Good News of Jesus, how can we make sense of this? How can we understand our communities so the seeds of the gospel can take root? Here are four simple steps that can help our churches to this end:
1. Know the facts. Use demographic data to determine how many people there are in a particular area, along with a breakdown of age groups, average income, and standard of living. While these numbers can be interesting and helpful in themselves, we also want to look at how they are changing over time. Demographic shifts will have an impact on the ministries the church should offer, in light of what the community is becoming.
2. Know the people. This task is best accomplished by going out onto the streets of your community. Look at the people around you. Does the view match up with what the demographic study describes? Go out on different days and at various times. Look with the eyes of God at those who live and work in the community.
3. Know the community. Explore what organizations are already thriving and making a difference. What are they doing that is working and how can your church emulate those characteristics? What stores, businesses, and hangout spots do people frequent most, and why?
4. Know what really matters. In other words, what do the people of your community really care about? What are they passionate about? Some would call these community values, such as leisure, education, justice, moral causes, or social issues. Church leaders may not agree with all of them, but knowing what people in a community truly care about gives the church a starting point for sharing biblical truth.
Some of these steps are easy and straightforward, others take more effort and time. I encourage you to pray and ask God to grant that insight and give better understanding of the people who live nearby.
Van Kicklighter is IBSA’s associate executive director for the Church Planting Team. Read the full version of this column in the current issue of Resource magazine, online at resource.IBSA.org.