4 Tips for Sharing the Gospel and Inviting People to Church
Spiritual conversations don’t have to be forced. We just need to notice when God opens a door to have them. This blog explores how to be ready, present, and kind in your everyday life so others feel safe exploring faith with you.
Holy Conversations Start with Open Hearts
Have you ever felt that nudge to share your faith but hesitated, unsure of how to begin? You're not alone. For many of us, the idea of inviting someone to church or talking about our spiritual journey can feel intimidating. We don't want to come across as pushy or weird. But what if it's not about forcing the conversation but about being ready when God opens the door?
Holy conversations are waiting in the margins of our everyday lives. A comment from a coworker. A neighbor who's hurting. A friend who mentions they're feeling lost. These aren’t coincidences, they’re invitations. Our job is to be open, prayerful, and attentive to the opportunities He provides.
The question then doesn’t become: “How do I convince someone to come to church?” The better question is: “Am I open, prayerful, and paying attention to the moments God provides?”
In Colossians 4:3, Paul wrote, “…pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ…”. He didn’t say, “Pray that we’ll convince everyone,” or “Pray we’ll get the words just right.” No, he asked for open doors.
Spiritual openness is less about knowing what to say and more about cultivating a heart that’s ready to listen, care, and speak when the Spirit nudges. God doesn’t expect perfection; He desires participation. When we say yes, He supplies the words, courage, and grace.
So, how do we cultivate a heart that's ready for holy conversations?
Practical Advice to Making Yourself Available to God
Be Prayerful
Effective witnessing starts with prayer because it aligns our hearts with God's and makes us more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading. Before you begin your day, try praying something like: "God, if you want me to have a spiritual conversation today, open the door, and give me the courage to walk through it."
Build Relationships
Another way to be an effective witness is through building genuine relationships and being a friend. Relationships involve investing time and effort into understanding the other person's perspective; thus, establishing trust and rapport creates opportunities for deeper conversations about faith.
Relationships built on mutual respect and understanding are more likely to withstand disagreements or challenges. When people know that you care about them as individuals, they are more likely to be open to discussions about your faith, even if they don't initially agree with your beliefs.
Be Present
Instead of only looking for "big" moments to share your faith, what if we saw small talk as sacred space? Availability is critical because people notice when you're actually listening. That's often where holy conversations begin, not with a speech, but with presence.
The next time you're in line at the coffee shop or chatting with a coworker, be fully there. Put away your phone, make eye contact, and ask questions beyond the surface. You never know when God might use that moment of genuine connection to open a deeper conversation.
Four Practical Tips for Sharing Jesus
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Sharing our faith isn’t just a personal choice but a divine mandate (Matthew 28:19-20) that carries eternal significance. But, as a reminder, believers aren’t alone in this because they are empowered by the Holy Spirit, who equips you to share the gospel boldly and effectively.
Let’s review some tips for sharing Jesus and/or inviting someone to church.
1) Be Curious
Rather than jumping straight to "Do you go to church?" try asking questions that invite people to share their thoughts and experiences. Questions can guide conversations naturally. Ask open-ended questions that encourage reflection and dialogue, such as:
“How's your soul been lately?”
"What's been giving you hope recently?”
"How do you find hope in difficult times?"
These types of open-ended questions create space for people to express themselves without feeling pressured. They allow you to understand where someone is coming from and can naturally lead to deeper spiritual discussions.
Furthermore, asking questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the other person's perspective. It shows that you value their opinions and are open to learning from them, which can foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding in the conversation.
2) Share Your Own Struggles
There's power in vulnerability. You don't need to have all the answers or present a perfect facade. Being open about your own questions and struggles can create a bridge for others to explore faith. When we're honest about our journey, it gives others permission to be honest, too.
Examples: "I've been through some rough times too, but my faith kept me grounded, even when I didn't have all the answers.” "I still have questions about God, but here's what's helped me..."
Another great way to share your struggles is the Two-Minute Testimony method. This model provides a concise way to share who you were before and after Jesus came into your life. Learn how to craft a Two-Minute Testimony: HERE.
3) Be a Living Witness
While words are important, our lives should also reflect the transforming power of Christ. Are you known for your kindness? Your integrity? Your willingness to forgive? These qualities can speak volumes about your faith, even before you say a word.
4) Be Ready to Extend a Simple Invitation
Did you know that 82% of North Americans who’ve left the church say they’d be open to an invitation to attend church with a friend or family member if offered one? However, only 2% of churchgoers actually extend that invitation.
For many, all it takes is an invitation to bring someone back into the fold. Here are some simple ways to extend an invitation:
"I'm heading to church Sunday; want to come with me?”
"We usually grab lunch after service. Would you like to join us?"
"We're doing a new series that made me think of something we talked about. I think you might like it."
Remember, you're not responsible for the outcome. You're simply opening a door and inviting someone to step through it.
How to Overcome Challenges of Sharing the Gospel
Fear of Rejection
Fear of rejection is common when sharing faith. We can fear losing friendships or humiliation from a stranger. However, remember, Jesus faced rejection too, but He continued His mission. Remember that your role is to plant seeds; God will handle the rest.
To overcome fear, focus on the bigger picture of your personal ministry (Yes, everyone has a ministry—It’s part of being a Christian!). Your efforts are part of a larger divine plan, and every conversation holds potential for spiritual growth, regardless of the immediate outcome.
Additionally, rejection doesn’t reflect your worth or the validity of your beliefs. Your ultimate identity is in Christ, so draw strength from His example of perseverance amid adversity.
Lack of Confidence
You might feel unqualified or unsure about sharing the Gospel. Trust that God equips those He calls. The Holy Spirit will guide your words and actions, so lean on that divine support.
Furthermore, practice sharing your faith in a supportive environment, such as with fellow believers or in a discipleship band. This practice can help build your confidence and refine your approach, preparing you for real-world conversations about faith.
Handling Difficult Questions
You may encounter challenging questions about faith. It's okay to admit if you don't have all the answers. Offer to find out more and follow up later. This shows humility and a willingness to learn alongside them.
Approach difficult questions as opportunities for growth and learning. View them as a chance to explore your beliefs more deeply and engage in meaningful dialogue with others.
Got Questions is a great resource for some of the common and difficult questions you might be asked. It offers scripturally informed and accessible answers that can help equip you as you enter holy conversations.
Be Persistent, But Gentle
Sharing your faith isn't always met with immediate enthusiasm. In Acts, the early apostles faced rejection and even persecution but didn't give up. They continued to share the good news with love and persistence.
If someone isn't receptive, don't force the issue, but don't close the door, either. Continue to pray for them and look for ways to show Christ's love through your actions while patiently waiting for the next opportunity to discuss faith.
Sharing faith is a journey, not a one-time event. Spiritual growth is a gradual process that takes time and patience. Sometimes, it takes several conversations for someone to open up to exploring Christianity.
Cultivating Open Hearts, Not Perfect Words
Holy conversations don't start with perfect words; They start with open hearts. As we make ourselves available to God and others, we become conduits of His love and grace. We don't have to force spiritual conversations; we must be ready when God opens the door.
If you’re searching for the right words, be challenged by this simple prayer:
"Lord, make me aware. Help me notice people who are searching. Help me listen, and when the moment comes, help me speak not with pressure but with love. Open doors, and give me the courage to walk through them."
Remember, it's not about having all the answers or converting people on the spot. You have a unique story and perspective that someone needs to hear. Your willingness to share could be the very thing that helps another person find hope, healing, and a relationship with Jesus. So be open, be available, and watch in wonder as God uses your ordinary life for His extraordinary purpose.
TL;DR
You don’t need to force spiritual conversations—just be open when God opens the door.
Start by praying for opportunities, building genuine relationships, and being fully present in everyday moments.
Share your faith through curiosity, vulnerability, and consistent kindness, and don’t underestimate the power of a simple invitation to church.
You’re not responsible for the outcome—just for being available, authentic, and ready when the moment comes.