Avoiding Common Mistakes for First-Timers
- Boundless Team
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
A Message from FA Memphis
When visiting an Assemblies of God church like First Assembly Memphis, you should expect Spirit-filled worship, a high regard for the authority of Scripture, and an emphasis on the power of the Holy Spirit. We are a welcoming, Bible-centered community committed to making disciples in the 901 and beyond.
Why this matters: If you’re looking for a church in Memphis (or you’re just trying church again), knowing what’s biblical, what’s cultural, and what’s simply “people being people” helps you relax and actually receive what God wants to do in you.
Grounding (so you can plan): We gather for 9:30 AM Classes and 10:30 AM Worship.
Mistake #1: Arriving at the Last Minute
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Anxiety and self-protection can push people into “rush mode,” making church feel stressful instead of life-giving.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Peace, order, and a calm heart—so the visit can be focused on worship and receiving God’s Word (John 14:27).
What to Do Instead:
Arrive 15–20 minutes early
Allow time to locate parking, find the sanctuary, and visit the restroom
Use pre-service time to observe the church culture and connect with greeters
Pick up visitor materials and church information
Mistake #2: Avoiding the Connection Team
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Isolation and distrust can quietly keep people from the very help God is providing through community.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Belonging. God places believers into a body—not a crowd—so support and care are normal, not weird (1 Corinthians 12:12–27).
What to Do Instead:
Allow greeters to welcome you warmly
Accept visitor materials and information packets
Ask questions about service format, church programs, or facilities
Provide contact information if you're interested in staying connected
Mistake #3: Choosing Isolation Over Integration
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Fear of being seen can keep a person guarded, even when they truly want to connect.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Courage and family. In Christ, it’s safe to take small steps toward people and toward God (2 Timothy 1:7).
What to Do Instead:
Sit in the front two-thirds of the sanctuary
Choose an aisle seat if you're uncomfortable but want easier access
Position yourself near families or regular attendees who can offer guidance
Remember that participation is voluntary but encouraged
Mistake #4: Skipping the Visitor Card
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Suspicion can assume every request for contact is a pressure tactic.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Wise trust and care. A simple next step can open the door to prayer, support, and real discipleship (Galatians 6:2).
What to Do Instead:
Complete visitor cards honestly and thoroughly
Include your contact preferences and areas of interest
Specify if you want follow-up contact or prefer to reach out yourself
Use the card to request prayer, ask questions, or express specific needs
Mistake #5: Leaving Immediately After Service
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Hurry can become a shield—protecting time, but also blocking connection.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Unforced community. Healthy church life includes relationships, not just a service (Acts 2:42).
What to Do Instead:
Stay for 10–15 minutes after service ends
Approach the pastor or connection team with questions
Accept invitations to coffee, lunch, or informal conversations
Exchange contact information with people you connect with naturally
What makes Assemblies of God churches distinct (in a healthy, biblical way)?
Assemblies of God churches are Pentecostal—meaning the Holy Spirit is active today just like in the book of Acts, empowering believers to witness, live holy lives, and build up the Church (Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4).
Bible foundation
Focus | Scripture | What it means for your visit |
Worship | John 4:24 | We worship God “in spirit and truth”—expect heartfelt worship anchored in truth. |
Scripture | 2 Timothy 3:16–17 | The Bible is our authority for teaching, correction, and training for everyday life. |
Definition Blocks (quick and friendly)
Pentecostal: A Christian tradition that emphasizes the present-day work of the Holy Spirit, including Spirit-empowered living and the gifts of the Spirit (Acts 2; 1 Corinthians 12–14).
Baptism in the Holy Spirit: A distinct experience from salvation where believers are empowered for witness and ministry (Acts 1:8; Acts 2:4).
Sanctification: The lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus as we follow Him by the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 4:3).
Pastoral insight (for first-timers)
You may see people raise hands, pray at the altar, or respond vocally (“Amen”). That’s not a performance—it’s a personal response to God.
You’ll also see people who are quiet and reflective. Both can be sincere worship.
If something is new to you, you’re not expected to “fake it.” Come curious, not pressured.
Mistake #7: Overdressing or Underdressing
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Insecurity can turn clothing into a spiritual “test,” creating pressure God never intended.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): Freedom from performance. God looks at the heart, and church should be a place to breathe, not pretend (1 Samuel 16:7).
What to Do Instead:
Choose clean, modest clothing that reflects respect for the setting
Remember that heart attitude matters more than specific clothing brands or styles
Ask about dress culture if you're uncertain about specific events or services
Mistake #8: Not Asking About Next Steps
The Sin (what goes wrong in us): Passivity can keep faith at “curiosity level” instead of moving toward real discipleship.
The Solution (what Jesus offers): A clear next step. Following Jesus is active, and growth happens best with people (Matthew 28:19–20).
What to Do Instead:
Ask about next steps for discipleship and community
Ask about serving opportunities that fit your season of life
Request information about upcoming gatherings
Schedule a follow-up conversation with a pastor or a leader if you want guidance
A simple prayer before you visit
Jesus, help me come with an open heart. Give me clarity through Your Word and courage to take my next step toward You. Holy Spirit, draw me closer to Christ, heal what needs healing, and grow what needs growing in me. Lead me into real community and real discipleship. Amen.
Want to go deeper?
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341.
(Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, join us in person: 🌐 www.famemphis.net
Outside the area? Join our online church community: 🌐 www.famemphis.net
Related next-step reads (keep going if you’re exploring)
Can an Online Church Offer Real Connection?
Why Does Mid-Week Community Matter for My Spiritual Health?
How Can They Hear the Gospel in Memphis Today?
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