"Our Church subculture has erected dozens of barriers that separate many people from the possibility of becoming disciples. Virtually all of those barriers are essentially cultural barriers, and have little or nothing to do with ‘faith once delivered to the saints.'" ¹

There is a difference between maintaining holiness standards as a church and erecting unnecessary barriers in front of the unchurched. Simply, we can insist on the former while removing the latter.
If our holiness is an excuse for making the unbeliever uncomfortable, causing him or her to feel unwelcome, or viewing them as less loved or valuable to God... there is a problem with our holiness. Such "holiness" is old-time Phariseeism.
In this series of Tips for Teachers, we will consider a number of unnecessary barriers that may hinder your Sunday school's growth. Right now, stop and spend five minutes visualizing your typical Sunday school hour. What are some unnecessary barriers for unchurched people?

Why should you plan at least four social activities - outside of the church - per year? This is important, first, because our goal in Sunday school is not simply to present a lesson, but to develop disciples. Discipleship happens in the course of relationships. While relationships can be developed in an hour-long session, activities outside of the class may create stronger bonds of friendship. A second reason for social activities outside of the church is to provide entry-points for unchurched people. While the unchurched person may be reluctant to attend a Sunday service, they may be much more receptive to join you for a barbecue, board games, etc.
This best practice suggested at least four social activities per year. By planning one special activity per quarter, this could be easily accomplished. Special consideration, however, should be taken as to the purpose and promotion of such events.

• Will your activity be simply for fellowship of believers, or for outreach to unchurched friends?
• If the former, how can you design the event to encourage deeper fellowship among your class?
• If the latter, when would be the most appropriate time, in order to give them an easier transition into your class (e.g., a week or two before the next quarter begins, in order to encourage them to start the next study with you)?
• How should you balance a social activity with promotion of your class?