Have you ever felt nervous about inviting someone to church? I know it can be intimidating, but there’s a powerful truth in 1 John 4:18 that can help us: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” This means that our confidence (in this case to invite others) doesn’t come from being persuasive or knowing all the right words—it comes from an intentional love for people, a genuine compassion that reflects God’s heart.
Make it Personal
A personal invitation is one of the most powerful ways to invite someone to church because it builds on the existing connection you have with that person. Whether it’s to a friend, a neighbor, or a coworker, a personal invitation feels more genuine and welcoming. People are generally more comfortable attending a new church when they know someone who can help them feel welcome, as it helps ease the anxiety of stepping into an unfamiliar environment.
It’s great to share upcoming church events on social media, but remember that nothing can replace the impact of this direct and sincere approach. While this might require a bit of extra courage, don’t underestimate the power of that small moment. Lean on the Holy Spirit to help you because God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love (2 Timothy 1:7).
Make a Connection
Effective church invitations are built on the foundation of strong relationships. Before you even share the invitation, focus on creating a genuine connection. Take the time to get to know the person, understand their background, and show a sincere interest in their life.
Actions speak louder than words. Being there for someone in a meaningful way can have a greater impact than a thousand superficial invitations. As Colossians 3:14 (NLT) reminds us, “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” By prioritizing love and connection, your invitation becomes more than just a message—it becomes a meaningful gesture rooted in a relationship.
Make a Friend
Have you heard the popular saying “No New Friends”? You may have seen that phrase on social media as a joke, but subconsciously, many people post it, live by it, and take it seriously. While this saying might appeal to those who value loyalty and a tight-knit circle, it can also create an unnecessary barrier to forming meaningful new relationships.
Effective church invitations are built on the foundation of strong relationships.
It’s important to cherish and maintain our existing friendships, but we should also remain open to welcoming new people into our lives. Every new friend brings unique perspectives, experiences, and growth opportunities. Being open to new friendships not only enriches our lives but also reflects the love we are called to show others.
When inviting someone to church, remember that the goal is to connect them with Jesus, not just with you. Instead of focusing on whether they’ll be a good friend to you, ask if Jesus will be a good friend to them. Understanding and remembering this opens the door to a potential friendship, not just with you, but with the One who truly needs to be known. Be the connection between that person and God, using your friendship to help them get closer to Jesus.
Make Them Known
When inviting someone to church, focus first on connecting them with the community rather than diving into evangelistic discussions. Introduce them to others who may share similar interests or experiences, helping them feel a sense of belonging. People are often more interested in seeing how we live out our faith through community involvement and good works rather than hearing about our beliefs right away.
Church is not only a service that we attend, but a community that regularly gathers. Invite them to join small groups, social events, Bible studies, and fellowship gatherings. By helping them build relationships and sharing stories of how we support one another and serve together, you create a welcoming atmosphere that can naturally lead to a deeper interest in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Remember that Love is Your Motivation
In the end, it’s love that transforms everything. When you center your actions on genuine love for others, you realize that inviting someone to church isn’t about you—it’s about reflecting the welcoming and loving nature of God (1 John 4:7–8). This perfect love casts out any fear or hesitation you may have, making the invitation feel natural and sincere. So, as you reach out to others, let love be your guide, not fear. It’s this love that makes your invitation meaningful, heartfelt, and truly impactful.
Caleb Acosta attends Iglesia Piedra Angular in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
