Studies

Preaching on Assimilation (Incorporation) of New Members

Often an “assimilation gap” exists in congregations. New people remain “outsiders” even after they are no longer “new.” Apparent as this gap may be to them, veteran members sometimes do not spot it. They are unaware, which adds to the challenge!

Pastors may want to address the subject of assimilating new members from the pulpit. What time might prove to be opportune for such preaching?

On January 16, 23, and 30, 2022, the three-year series C epistle lessons include every word in 1 Corinthians 12 and 13. While these two chapters do not contain everything the Bible says that bears on this subject, sermons on these chapters can make more than a good start. They can open up ongoing discussion.

Click the links below for outlines of sermons for Jan. 16, 23, and 30.

The Source of Incorporation - 1 Corinthians 12:1-13 (Note that vv. 12 and 13 are added to the Epiphany 2 lectionary reading.)

The Recipients of Incorporation - 1 Cor. 12:12-31a

The Outworking of Incorporation - 1 Cor. 12:31b-13:13