Several decades ago, I had the opportunity to attend a worship service at a well-known church. The senior pastor was gaining recognition far beyond his local congregation as a gifted teacher and preacher. I had played a small role in his growing popularity, which added a personal dimension to my visit. Arriving early that day, I had time to explore the church grounds before the service began. What I witnessed left a lasting impression, though not in the way I anticipated.

As I wandered through the building, I came upon a large hall being prepared for a special event. The space was filled with tables and chairs, and refreshments were being set out. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as young, college-aged men and women streamed into the hall, greeting one another with laughter and warmth. Over the entrance hung a banner that read something like, College Students’ Fellowship.

At first glance, I was deeply impressed.

Here was a thoughtful and kind-hearted effort to nurture fellowship among these Jesus-loving young adults. It was clear that a great deal of care and preparation had gone into creating a space where they could grow together in faith and community. However, as I reflected further, a troubling thought surfaced: Would someone like me have been welcomed into such a gathering at their age?

As an 18-year-old, I had little formal education beyond high school. Instead of pursuing college, I entered the trades, eventually becoming a highly skilled and proud union tradesman. I began to wonder whether a blue-collar young man like myself would have felt out of place in a group so explicitly tailored to college students. Would I have been seen as “less than” because my path didn’t include higher education?

The thought stung.

I began to imagine the impact this kind of exclusivity might have on others who didn’t fit the mold of the “college student.” How many young people—whether tradesmen, service workers, or those simply navigating life without a degree—might feel excluded from such a gathering? To add salt to the wound, I considered how many of these students might find their future spouse in this setting, forming relationships that would shape their lives and families. What about those who didn’t have access to this space? Where would they find fellowship or meet a future partner within the church?

As I observed this scene, it became clear to me how easily well-intentioned efforts to foster community could unintentionally create divisions. Was the church, perhaps inadvertently, creating a culture of “haves” and “have-nots”? How did such a divide glorify Christ, who broke down barriers and called His followers to unity?

Reflecting on this experience, I realized how critical it is for church families to actively cultivate inclusivity. The body of Christ is meant to be a place where all are welcomed and valued, regardless of their educational background, career path, or social status. As Paul reminds us in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

The beauty of the gospel lies in its power to unite people from every walk of life. Church gatherings should reflect this truth, ensuring that no one feels excluded or less valued because of their circumstances. By fostering spaces where both college students and non-college individuals can connect, grow, and serve together, we can embody the unity Christ prayed for in John 17.

The experience challenged me to think about how churches can bridge cultural divides rather than reinforce them. Whether through inclusive events, intentional outreach, or simply creating spaces where everyone feels at home, we have a responsibility to promote unity within the body of Christ. Let us strive to build communities that reflect the heart of our Savior—welcoming, loving, and glorifying Him in all we do.

There was no need for a sign to read, “The least in the kingdom are not welcomed here.” May we be more Christ-like when we send out our invitations.

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Moe (our editor and the publisher of Learn-Christ.org) is a seasoned pastor, teacher, and writer devoted to deepening believers’ understanding of Scripture through a Christ-focused lens. With a passion for theology and a commitment to exploring the centrality of Christ in God’s redemptive plan.