Inviting your friends to church isn't merely a gesture; it's an opportunity to extend the warmth of your faith, share in community, and introduce others to the transformative power of worship. Yet, despite our best intentions, extending that invitation can sometimes feel daunting - even scary for some.
If you've ever found yourself hesitating or unsure about how to go about it, you're not alone, but the good news is, help is here! This comprehensive guide offers you a roadmap, complete with practical steps and encouragement, to equip you with the confidence you need to invite your friends to join you in the pews. But before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let's explore together the reason why making the invitation is so important.
Embracing Biblical Hospitality: Extending the Invitation with Love
As mentioned above, inviting others to church is more than a mere social gesture; it's an expression of biblical hospitality and a reflection of Christ's inclusive love. Just as Jesus welcomed all to the table, regardless of background or status, we too are called to extend that same hospitality to others.
"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." - Romans 15:7
As we extend our invitations, let us do so with a spirit of genuine love and inclusivity. Let us be mindful of those who may feel marginalized or excluded and actively reach out to them with warmth and compassion.
The Power of Inclusivity: Sharing the Love of Christ
Inviting friends to church is not about filling seats but about sharing the love of Christ and the transformative power of community. It's about extending a warm invitation to experience the richness of worship and fellowship with fellow believers. Do you remember the first time someone invited you to church? How did it make you feel? As we open our arms wide to welcome others, we embody the love and inclusivity that lie at the heart of Jesus himself.
Remember also, that the church is not merely a physical building but a body of believers. While gathering together in a dedicated space for worship is valuable, the essence of the church lies in the fellowship and community shared among its members. Whether we meet in a grand cathedral or a humble home, what truly matters is the bond of love and faith that unites us as believers. So when you invite your friends to church, you're inviting them into this living, breathing community of faith, where they can find support, encouragement, and belonging among fellow believers. It's not just about attending a service; it's about becoming part of a family rooted in Christ's love. Understanding and embracing this fundamental part of the equation can help ease our minds as we prepare to invite.
Take Up the Challenge: Embrace the Call to Hospitality
So, I challenge you today to consider these 7 action steps and reach out to a friend (or two, or three). Extend that invitation, and let the love of Christ shine through your actions. Who does God bring to mind, what friend is heavy on your heart today? Together, let's embrace this calling and be encouraged on mission together as we welcome others to the table and to the warmth of our faith-filled communities.
Step 1: Go to God for Guidance. Before extending invitations, it's most important to turn first to God in prayer. Ask for wisdom and discernment in choosing whom to invite and when to extend the invitation. Pray for your friends' hearts to be open to the message of Christ and for God's guidance in your interactions with them. Surrender your anxieties and uncertainties to God, trusting in His provision and perfect timing. Trust that the Holy Spirit will be at work in you and through your words. If you have other mutual friends, ask them to also pray for you before, during, and after you extend the invitation.
Step 2: Discern the Right Moment
Timing can be a critical aspect in how your invitation is received. Observe your friend's mood and receptivity. Look for natural openings in conversation or moments of shared interest in faith. Be personable and choose to ask face-to-face rather than via text or message. Be sensitive to their schedule and avoid pressuring them. Your invitation should feel like a warm embrace, not an obligation.
Step 3: Craft Your Invitation with Care
The words you choose can make all the difference. Instead of a generic, "Want to come to church with me?" try something more personal and inviting. Make it your own and share a glimpse of your own positive experiences at church. Use it as an opportunity to express genuine enthusiasm about your church community and the role that church has played in your life. A heartfelt invitation goes a long way in conveying sincerity and warmth. Take time to think about what words you will choose and what experiences you might want to share.
Step 4: Address Potential Concerns
Anticipate questions or hesitations that your friend may have about attending church. Assure them that they are welcome just as they are and that there is no pressure to conform or perform. Share anecdotes about the welcoming atmosphere and diverse community at your church. Emphasize that they can come as they are and reassure them of any anxieties they may have regarding church. For some friends, it may be better to start with an invitation to a church event or social function before asking them to join you at church. This may be especially true for anyone who might have a past history of church hurt or poor experiences from the past.
Step 5: Offer Practical Support
Removing logistical barriers can make attending church more feasible for your friend. Offer to pick them up or meet them at a convenient location. Provide details about the service, such as the time, location, childcare services, and what to expect. Address any concerns they may have about attire or unfamiliar rituals. Your thoughtfulness and support can make a significant difference in their decision to attend.
Step 6: Follow Up with Genuine Interest
After extending the invitation, follow up with your friend to reaffirm your offer and express your excitement about the possibility of attending church together. Listen attentively to any questions or concerns they may have and offer reassurance and support. Continue to demonstrate genuine care and interest in their spiritual journey, regardless of their response to your invitation.
Step 7: Responding with Grace and Persistence If your friend declines your invitation to attend church, it's essential to respond with grace and persistence. Remember that their response does not diminish the value of your invitation or the sincerity of your intentions. Here's how you can navigate this situation with compassion and perseverance:
- Express Understanding and Respect: Respect your friend's decision and assure them that there's no pressure. Let them know that you understand and that your friendship remains unchanged regardless of their response.
- Offer Alternative Ways to Connect: Suggest alternative ways for them to engage with your faith community, such as watching a church service online together. This allows them to experience the essence of your church in a more accessible format.
- Continue to Pray: Keep your friend in your prayers, asking God to soften their heart and open their eyes to His love. Trust that God is at work in their life, even if you can't see immediate results.
- Keep the Conversation Open: Maintain open communication with your friend and keep the invitation open for future opportunities. Let them know that they are always welcome to join you whenever they feel ready.
- Invite to Social Events: If attending a church service feels too daunting for your friend, consider inviting them to social events or gatherings hosted by your church. This can provide a low-pressure way for them to get to know your faith community in a relaxed setting.
- Don't Be Discouraged: Remember that the outcome is ultimately in God's hands. Your role is to obediently extend the invitation and trust that God will work in His perfect timing. As Matthew 5:16 reminds us, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Your obedience in extending the invitation is what matters most, regardless of the response.
- Trust in God's Plan: Finally, trust that God has a plan in place, even if it doesn't align with your expectations. It's not about what you did right or wrong; it's about being faithful to God's call to share His love with others. Surrender the outcome to God and continue to shine His light in all that you do.
By responding with grace, persistence, and trust in God's plan, you can continue to be a faithful witness to your friend, even in the face of rejection or indifference. Keep shining your light and extending God's love to those around you, knowing that your efforts are never in vain.
In Conclusion
Inviting friends to church is a meaningful way to share the love of Christ and extend the warmth of your faith community. By following these 7 simple steps, our prayer is that you will boldly embrace the call to biblical hospitality. Believe that you can confidently extend invitations with sincerity and love. Together, let's continue to welcome others to the table and share in the joy of worship and fellowship.
And of course, we can't end this article without a shameless plug for our best-selling "You Can Sit With Us" Last Supper t-shirt. It serves as the perfect tangible reminder of Jesus's open invitation to all.
In closing, let us remember the words of Jesus: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). May we extend that same invitation of rest, love, and belonging to all those around us. We are praying for you!
We are praying for you to have the boldness to take action and help lead someone to a life-changing decision for Christ. Your invitation could be one that they remember forever.