Influential author Thom S. Rainer, the president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, says that "Eighty-two percent of the unchurched are likely to attend church if a friend, co-worker, neighbor or family member invites them." Perhaps we need to pause on this response. Perhaps we need to restate it. More than eight out of 10 of the unchurched said they would come to church if they were invited. Sounds kinda crazy doesn't it?
That that many people would just jump out of bed on a Sunday and head over to the church if they were invited to it? Let's assume it were that simple. The next obvious question is: Are Christians inviting non-Christians to church? The heartbreaking answer is "no." Rainer says: "Only 2 percent of church members invite an unchurched person to church."
Perhaps it is time we sounded the call to invite people church. Not just a blanket "ya'll come" on facebook, I am talking about a personal message between you and the other person. I'm talking about the players and coaches from your kid's sports team, your restaurant server, (but only if you leave a good tip,) your friends, and family – even if they have said no in the past! It may be that simple, and it may be that profound.
God can use your ordinary invitation and use it to produce extraordinary results. Many of the people in our community are just one invitation away from experiencing the life that can only be found in Jesus Christ. Your life was changed because someone invited you! God can use you to do the same for others in Williamsville, Clarence, Lancaster, Cheektowaga, and the surrounding communities of the WNY Buffalo region. All you have to do is ask :-)
Pastor Milo
@milowilson
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