For What It’s Worth… Invite Others

      from PASTOR SCOTT

Inviting others to join you in worship is critical to the growth of God’s church in this world! Here are three Biblical reasons for we (the church) to better become an invitational community:

1. Following Jesus’ example.
Throughout his ministry, Jesus personally invited people from all walks of life to follow him. Extending an invitation is a way for members to imitate his relational example of bringing people into God’s kingdom.

2. Fulfilling the Great Commission.
Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19–20) is a universal calling for all believers. While a personal invitation is not the entire scope of the mission, it is an essential first step toward introducing people to Christ and their potential salvation.

3. Extending Christ’s welcome.
In the parable of the great banquet, Jesus instructs his servant to “go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full” (Luke 14:23). This highlights the importance of actively inviting others into the fellowship of God’s people.

Did you know that personal invitations are shown to be highly effective for church outreach? According to Barna Group research, traditional advertising methods like direct mail, TV, radio, and billboards are largely ineffective at drawing unchurched people to church. The most effective “advertisement” is a high-touch, relational approach, often involving a personal invitation or meaningful outreach. 

So, not only are we encouraged in Scripture to be invitational – it turns out being invitational is the best way in which we can make a difference! Inviting others to join you at church is an effective way to share with others the good news of God’s love and grace. Let us all strive to become an even more invitational community. And…One way to make that invitation is the same way Jesus did 2,000 years ago. Invite others to… “Come and See”. Come (with you) and See (that God loves us…warts and all). That is a great 3 word invitation… “Come and See”!

Scott <><