Introversion & the Church Podcast
The church is God’s family. To participate in church, is to participate in “together.” What if “together” is difficult for you? In this episode of Breaking Bread, Kristen Schwind and Ron Messner give voice to the introvert in church. They highlight both the weaknesses and the strengths our personalities pose in how we experience the “together” aspect of church.
Who is an introvert?
- A person who finds solitude as life-giving and human interaction as life-expending.
Who is an extrovert?
- A person who finds human interaction as life-giving and solitude as life-expending.
How can introversion in the church be challenging?
- Fellowship can be difficult.
- By being reserved, individuals can be misjudged as aloof or uncaring.
- By being reserved, individuals can be passed over for duties.
- By not being always present, individuals can be misjudged as uncommitted.
How can we walk in an understanding way towards the introvert in church?
- Be a safe person to talk to.
- Use their gift of listening and employ them in discipleship opportunities.
- Learn from their ability to find life in solitude.
- Provide structure in social settings. Corporate worship, small group Bible studies, committee work and various church duties are excellent examples of this.
What encouragement is there for the introvert?
- Be careful not to fall into isolation.
- Challenge yourself to step out and engage the community of the church.
- Make full use of the structured social events such as worship, teaching and more.
Listen on Spotify – Listen on Apple Podcast
Further Information
Personalities & Social Styles
One generalized way of looking at differences in individuals is to view their varying social styles, or how they interact with others and the world around them. This article gives us the descriptions of four primary social styles.
Healthy Relationships in the Body of Christ
Jesus taught us much in the way we should interact with each other. He encouraged us to love others as we love ourselves and also serve each other whole-heartedly. This resource provides key thoughts taken from the ACCFS presentation Healthy Relationships in the Body of Christ.
Comments
1 Comment
This was such a refreshing podcast for those of us that have introvert family members or are introverted ourselves! Brought out much awareness and compels compassion towards the introvert, to allow them to be who God created them to be. Thanks for your efforts on this podcast!
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