There is a certain degree of comfort in knowing what lies ahead. Most of us have probably heard a fellow believer wax philosophically about life, saying, "I read the Book. I know how it ends."

Christians can appreciate the humor in a comment like that, but to the unchurched, it may seem smug and boastful. According to research by Dr. Thom Rainer, our unchurched friends and neighbors are paying attention to what we say and, more importantly, what we do.

In this issue of Church Health Today, Rainer writes about some of the perceptions the unchurched have concerning believers. You may be surprised to learn most are good.

Also in this issue, we'll point you to some insightful articles about how you can attract people to your church and keep them once they visit. Be sure to read about nine-year-old Elizabeth's first -- and only -- visit to a local church. Then check out the article on marketing to see if your church is striking the right chords with the unchurched.

Bob Russell, senior minister at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Ky., tells us that believers aren't immune from the mean spirit that often invades people when things aren't quite the way they would like them to be.

Got an interesting or unique ministry you would like to tell people about? Send us an e-mail and we may feature it in a future issue. In the meantime, be sure to read about four we found at the recent North American Christian Conference in Indianapolis.

As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions for making Church Health Today a valuable resource.

God's blessings on your ministry!

Tom Harper

Publisher, Church Central Associates