Following Up New Members In The Church

FOLLOWING UP NEW MEMBERS IN THE CHURCH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 2:41-47

Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:19-20, Hebrews 10:24-25, 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, Galatians 6:1-2, John 13:34-35

INTRODUCTION:

One of the greatest responsibilities of the church is not only to win souls but also to nurture and establish them in the faith. The early church did not stop at conversions; they devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. This pattern remains essential today.

New believers are often vulnerable—spiritually young, emotionally tender, and in need of guidance. If they are not properly followed up and discipled, they may drift away, fall into error, or become discouraged. Therefore, the body of Christ must embrace the mandate to care for and strengthen every soul God adds to the church.

In this study, we will explore biblical principles and practical steps for effectively following up new members in the church so that they are rooted, growing, and fruitful in their walk with God.

1. FOLLOW-UP IS A BIBLICAL MANDATE

a) Jesus commanded discipleship, not just conversions (Matthew 28:19-20):

Jesus didn’t just say “go and make converts,” but “go and make disciples,” teaching them to obey all His commands. This requires consistent engagement and follow-up.

b) The early church modelled continual care (Acts 2:42):

New believers were continually taught and engaged in fellowship, showing us that follow-up is not a one-time contact, but a relationship of growth.

c) Paul’s ministry involved constant follow-up (Acts 14:21-22):

Paul revisited new believers to strengthen and encourage them in the faith, affirming that the work wasn’t done until they were established.

d) Follow-up proves our love and responsibility (1 John 3:18):

We must love not just in word but in action, and intentional follow-up is an act of genuine spiritual love.

Biblical Example: Jesus continued to appear to and teach His disciples after His resurrection for 40 days, reinforcing the need for consistent guidance (Acts 1:3).

2. FOLLOW-UP PROVIDES SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT

a) New believers need foundational teachings (Hebrews 6:1):

They must be grounded in the basic doctrines of Christ—repentance, faith, baptism, and the resurrection.

b) Regular Bible study strengthens them (1 Peter 2:2):

Just like newborns need milk, new believers need the pure Word of God to grow.

c) Answering questions builds understanding (Acts 8:30-31):

Like Philip with the Ethiopian eunuch, mentors must walk alongside new believers, explaining truths they do not understand.

d) Discipleship prevents false doctrine (Colossians 2:6-8):

By being rooted in Christ, they are less likely to be swayed by deceptive philosophies.

Biblical Example: Apollos was mighty in Scripture, but Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and explained the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:24-26).

3. FOLLOW-UP BUILDS RELATIONSHIP AND BELONGING

a) Integration into the church family is vital (Romans 12:5):

New members should feel they are part of a spiritual family, not isolated individuals.

b) Fellowship strengthens unity (Hebrews 10:24-25):

Regular gatherings and interactions help new believers feel seen, known, and supported.

c) Love and acceptance foster trust (John 13:34-35):

When the church shows genuine love, new believers are drawn closer to God and the church.

d) Mentorship creates accountability (2 Timothy 2:2):

Raising spiritual mentors and friends who can check in and pray with new believers encourages maturity.

Biblical Example: Barnabas took Saul (Paul) and introduced him to the apostles, helping him be accepted among the brethren (Acts 9:26-27).

4. FOLLOW-UP ENCOURAGES SERVICE AND GROWTH

a) Every believer has a gift to use (1 Peter 4:10):

New members must be guided to discover and use their spiritual gifts in the body of Christ.

b) Service promotes maturity (Ephesians 4:11-13):

As they begin to serve, their faith becomes more practical and refined.

c) Responsibility builds commitment (Luke 16:10):

When entrusted with small tasks, new believers learn faithfulness and grow in confidence.

d) Encouragement keeps them motivated (Galatians 6:9):

Following up with kind words, appreciation, and direction helps them remain enthusiastic.

Biblical Example: Timothy, a young convert mentored by Paul, grew into a faithful servant and church leader (Philippians 2:19-22).

5. FOLLOW-UP SECURES ETERNAL IMPACT

a) Fruitfulness glorifies God (John 15:8):

When new believers grow and bear fruit, the kingdom of God expands.

b) Establishing roots prevents backsliding (Luke 8:13):

Those not rooted in the Word may fall away when trials come; follow-up provides that stability.

c) Continuity ensures generational discipleship (2 Timothy 2:2):

Disciples become disciplers, continuing the cycle of growth and multiplication.

d) Heaven rejoices over enduring souls (Luke 15:7):

God rejoices not only in salvation but also in endurance and maturity.

Biblical Example: The Thessalonian church, after being discipled by Paul, became examples to other believers (1 Thessalonians 1:6-8).

CONCLUSION:

Following up new members is not optional—it is a vital part of fulfilling the Great Commission. It is how we turn converts into disciples, visitors into family, and seedlings into fruitful trees. The early church was strong and growing because they valued people, cared deeply, and made discipleship a priority.