The fear of rejection is often what makes inviting someone to church feel so intimidating. We risk being misunderstood, judged, or even damaging a relationship. When someone says “no,” reacts awkwardly, or questions our faith, it can feel deeply personal.
Pero bilang mga Kristiyano, alam natin na we’re called to step out of our comfort zones and reach those who don’t know Christ. And maybe that starts with something as simple as inviting someone to church.
Inviting someone to church is giving them a chance to hear the Gospel. This is where people can hear the truth about Jesus, are called to repentance, and invited to faith in Christ. Your invitation could be the first step in their journey to knowing Jesus. Kaya naman, never underestimate the power of a simple invitation.
Inviting someone to church also means giving them the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be surrounded by a Christ-centered community. This is where real fellowship, encouragement, and accountability happen. In a world where so many are searching for a sense of belonging, the church offers a true family rooted in God’s love. Of course, hindi 'to magiging perfect, but that’s exactly why we need Jesus, as we grow together in faith and support one another.
So, paano nga tayo makakapag-invite despite the fear? Here are some practical steps that can help.
1. Recognize that everyone has a different experience with church
While some have felt welcomed and loved, others may have faced disappointment or hurt. That’s why it’s important to approach each person with empathy and take time to understand their perspective.
You can start by simply asking how they feel about church and gently share your own experiences, too. And if it’s their first time attending a Christ-centered church, help ease their worries by letting them know what to expect.
Tell them what usually happens during the service and share some details, like kung gaano katagal, saan located yung church, and what they can expect. It’s always easier for someone to say ‘yes’ kapag alam nila kung ano yung pinapasok nila. This leads us to point number two.
2. Start with something familiar
Inviting someone for coffee or lunch is always easier, so why not invite them to do something fun before or after church? Take Lea, for example. Her idea is something we can apply.
"Just recently, pumunta ako ng salon. I forgot how the conversation about beliefs started, pero na-share ko sa hairstylist ko kung ano talaga yung ginawa ni Jesus for us. I felt prompted to invite her for coffee para mas makilala ko siya, and eventually invite her to come to church with me afterwards. Praise God, pumayag siya."
This idea is not just to give them a chance to receive spiritual nourishment, but also to show hospitality by sharing a meal or coffee together.
Tandaan, even Jesus shared meals and spent time with people. Meet them where they’re at, establish the relationship, then take the next step.
3. Love them genuinely
While it is ultimately the Holy Spirit who changes hearts and draws people to Jesus, we have a role to nurture the seed of the Gospel in their hearts by showing them love and care.
Sa madaling salita, when you share Jesus, remember to care as well! Just because you invited them to church or shared the Gospel doesn’t mean you’re done. Helping someone know Jesus is a journey that you should walk with them. This might look like:
- Spending an evening each week to do Bible studies
- Sacrificing time with your friends to make someone feel welcome
- Adding someone to your prayer list and praying for them each day
- Sending a message or calling regularly to check in
Tandaan, if you’re struggling to find time to care, you can always ask other Christians or people from your church to help you. Introduce them to your friends, and share the burden (Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24-25; Philippians 2:4).
4. Trust God with the outcome
If you’ve taken the step to invite someone to church, remember: it’s okay kung hindi sila pumayag or may other plans sila. Declining your offer doesn’t mean they’ve rejected you or God forever. They might still encounter Christ later on in their life. Maybe they just need more time, or they have some past hurts or ideas you don’t know about—so respond with curiosity, not judgment.
Rather than giving up or taking it personally, ipag-pray mo. Ask God for clarity, discernment, and strength. Keep praying for that person.
The important thing is that you obeyed. You stepped out of your comfort zone kahit na uncomfortable. Kaya sigurado kami na the next time the Holy Spirit prompts you to invite someone to church, magiging mas ready at confident ka na.
Inviting someone to church is an exciting opportunity. If you have a friend you want to invite to church, be intentional about making a plan, then have the courage to ask. Paano kung pumayag sila, 'di ba? Them knowing about Jesus is more important than a few minutes of discomfort. At the end of the day, their journey of faith rests in God’s hands. Your role is simply to offer the invitation.