What do Mosques, Buddhist temples and your church have in common?
We are living in post-Christian America. This is not news. More people mark “none” when asked about their religious preference than ever before. Knowledge of the Bible and acknowledgement of the need for Biblical truth is at an all-time low. People are no more interested in entering a church, as they or even a long time Christian might be interested in entering a mosque or Buddhist temple.
For argument sake, let’s say a mosque or Buddhist temple was being built on a corner that a fine Christian passes every day. They watch the building getting built. Maybe they even think to themself, “that’s a nice building.” Would they go to jumah (prayer service) in the mosque on a Friday or a gathering at the Buddhist temple? Probably not. What if there was a big sign out front that said “All are welcome” would the fine Christian go in? Probably not. More than likely, it doesn’t even cross the fine Christian’s mind to attend a meeting. They just drive on by.
For argument sake, let’s continue to think the fine Christian had a neighbor who is super nice. They’ve had cookouts together. The neighbors are always willing to lend a hand, a cup of sugar and they grab their mail when gone. They are the best neighbors. What if that guy comes to the fine Christian and says, “Hey, we are having a special service at the mosque or temple, I’d love it if you would come. Don’t worry about not understanding things, I will help you and explain everything. If you get uncomfortable at any time, we can leave. No worries. It’s a special day and I’d love to share it with my special friends.” Would the fine Christian go? There is a far more likelihood that they would go to the mosque or temple with the friendly neighbor under those circumstances. Even with no intention of converting, they will go because it was important to their friendly neighbor.
Nonbelievers in Post Christian America think about your church, the way you might think about a mosque or temple. It’s foreign to them. No matter how well kept the building. They aren’t coming in. No matter what is put on the electronic sign in the front of the church. They aren’t coming in. They don’t know the customs. They have questions: Can anyone just show up? Does one need to get permission to attend? They wouldn’t want to offend anyone. It’s foreign to them. As they drive pass your church, it doesn’t even cross their mind to attend a service. But if a trusted friend invites them to attend a church service, they just might come. If for no other reason than curiosity. They know their friend would be with them, answer any questions and would help them. A friend’s invite is what it will take to get Post Christian America population to come to church.
Be that friend.
Invite that neighbor.
Allow God to do the rest.
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
