HOW TO INVITE SOMEONE TO CHURCH

Most of us feel a twinge of apprehension about inviting friends or neighbors to church. The following steps may help ease some of that fear and increase the likelihood that they will say yes.

Begin to pray that God will bless your efforts, opening doors for you, and creating opportunities for building friendships. Ask your friends in the church to pray for your success in leading this soul to Christ.

Invite them into your life long before inviting them to church. Do things together. Serve them by delivering a meal when they are sick, watching their kids, and listening when they need to talk.

Slowly introduce them to others in the church. Invite them and church friends for dessert and coffee. If everyone connects well, look for ways to get together in the future. The more “church people” your unsaved friends feel comfortable around, the less threatening the doors of the church will be.

Start small. Invite them to “neutral” church functions, such as a women’s luncheon, a skating party, small group Bible Studies, one-day retreats, or Vacation Bible School. These may be ways to ease your friends into the spiritual aspect of the church.

When you sense the time is right, simply ask your friends if they would like to attend church with you next Sunday.

If they say no, do not become discouraged, and do not give up. Refuse to allow their negative response to create an uncomfortable tension in your relationship. Continue to be their friend, and wait for other opportunities to arise.

If they say yes, prepare them for the experience; it will reduce their anxiety. Let them know what you will wear. Describe how your church introduces visitors, and assure them they have the option of not being singled out for attention. If they have children, describe the available facilities and classes for kids. Let them know what to expect in the worship assembly (singing, preaching, prayers, communion, baptisms, etc.).

Via Madison Church of Christ Bulletin