According to a recent article by Thom Rainer (president and CEO of LifeWay Bookstores), more and more churches are implementing New-Member classes into their education department.  These classes give direction and clarity to those who are making decisions about joining your church.  They also allow the church to be forthcoming about their policies, practices, and philosophy.

I personally believe such classes should be a staple in our ministries.  Think about it…rarely would someone purchase a new car without driving it.  No one I know would sign their name to a contract without knowing the content.  You wouldn’t want to purchase …