Your Invitation May be an Answer to Her Prayer.

 By Courtney Garrett

I had spent an hour on the phone with my friend Lindsay one afternoon, coaching her through what it would look like to start a neighborhood Bible study. It had become my passion to equip women to take a meaningful risk by opening their homes to host an introductory, foundational Bible study. We hung up after praying that the Lord would open doors and soften the hearts of the neighbors she was inviting.

Lindsay sent out her thoughtfully worded group text, and the responses started rolling in almost immediately:

“Great idea. Count me in!”

“I’d love to!”

“This is awesome! When do we start?”

To Lindsay’s astonishment, almost all of the women replied positively. But the response she didn’t see coming came privately from an acquaintance:

“You have no idea how timely your text was. Just this morning, I was in the shower praying. For the longest time, I’ve known I needed to find a way to grow closer to God, but I felt stuck. I didn’t know where to start. But then I got your text. Your invitation was an answer to prayer!”

UNDERSTANDING THE NEED

Sometimes we have preconceived ideas about people. We often think those who don’t attend church may be hostile to Christianity, but the reality is that most, if not all, have unsettled questions about spirituality. We don’t always know what people are thinking. But by assuming spiritual interest rather than dismissing it, we recognize that everyone wrestles through the same big questions of life:

• Am I loved? 

• Why do I hurt? 

• Does my life have any meaning? 

• Is there any hope? 

• What is the truth? 

• 
  

These questions may not be expressed outwardly during conversation, but they are universal to the human heart. Our unchurched friends are often waiting for us to take the first step to help them discover the truth that can change their lives.

BEYOND A PERSONAL QUIET TIME

Those of us who call ourselves Christians can fall into a very common trap. We can mistakenly believe our faith is a private matter and that our job is simply to grow closer to God by remaining in Bible studies year after year, seeking only to grow in knowledge. Personal Bible study is a critical aspect of becoming a fully devoted follower of Jesus. However, if we take the

Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) seriously—to go and make disciples of all nations and teach others to obey God’s commands—we must also have eyes to see those around us who have not yet come to a knowledge of the gospel.

Seeking to be a disciple-maker means reminding ourselves of a simple truth: Someone I know needs what I know.

Even if we are convinced of this, we can feel at a loss for how to communicate truth from God’s Word effectively. We may feel nervous or ill-equipped. This is normal, but we all have to start somewhere. We don’t have to know all the answers before we are ready to invest in those around us. With a clear roadmap, we can simply and effectively discuss the truth others so desperately need.

GETTING STARTED

So how do you take the first step? It’s easier than you might think.

1. PRAY

Pray and ask the Lord who around you needs the gospel and a foundation for growing as a believer in Christ. He may put a specific person on your heart—a coworker or neighbor—or He may lead you to a group of people, such as several women in your neighborhood or a group of friends you see regularly. Trust that the Lord will draw the right people at the right time. Even if you invite ten women and only two say yes, trust that those are exactly who the Lord wants there. You may have deeper conversations that have greater impact in a smaller setting.

2. PARTNER OR LEAD SOLO

Decide whether you want to lead the group with a friend. There are many benefits to co-leading. You can pray together, share the responsibility, and help answer questions that come up in the group. You may even live in the same neighborhood or work together, making it easier to gather a group.

3. STOP OVERTHINKING

We encounter several obstacles as we think about sharing our faith. How will I be perceived? What if I’m rejected? How will I find the time? The core issue, however, is often a misunderstanding of the goal. We can mistakenly believe the Great Commission means, “Go and convert.” But that is not what the Bible says. Our job is simply to be faithful and share the truth with others. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to do the rest. So leave the results to God!

4. SEND THE EMAIL OR TEXT

People are hungry for truth, but they are also hungry for friendship. They want to be invited and included. If the thought of inviting others to join a Bible study is intimidating, remember your invitation may be an answer to another person’s deep need for connection. Craft an email or text that is short and to the point. Then send it—even if you’re scared. It is risky to face possible rejection, but remember the Lord is in control. We often don’t know what another person is thinking or going through. An invitation communicates that you care. Even if she says no, you have given her something to think about.

5. START YOUR GROUP

Gather for your first meeting and discuss the format of the study. Explain the homework and that your discussion time will center on the questions and their answers. Encourage members to underline or star observations they would like to share with the group. Don’t put people on the spot. Instead, ask for volunteers. As members become more comfortable, discussion will become more natural. Many people simply need time to feel comfortable, especially if they have never participated in a small group before.

6. WATCH GOD WORK

As a leader, it is natural to desire a specific outcome. You want people to understand and believe in Jesus and His Word. Remember, however, God is in control—and that is a very good thing. He is sovereign and omniscient. He knows people’s hearts. Continually surrender your desire for a particular outcome and ask the Lord for His will to be done. You may be surprised! Trust His good plan and His ability to accomplish what brings Him the most glory. You may simply be planting seeds that need time to take root. Even if someone does not respond immediately, they have still heard the truth.

Reaching others for Christ is a universal call for every believer, but we don’t have to overcomplicate it. With a clear plan, you can confidently share the truth with others. And remember: Your invitation may be the answer to her prayer.

Courtney Garrett

Courtney Garrett earned her Master of Arts in Christian Education at Dallas Theological Seminary before serving for several years as the director of women’s discipleship at her home church. She is the founder of 101 Christianity, a ministry dedicated to creating resources that help seekers and new believers begin their faith journey while also equipping mature believers to confidently share their faith with others. Courtney is a fellow through the Colson Center for Christian Worldview and she enjoys teaching the Bible, speaking on the intersection of truth and culture, and encouraging believers to think critically and live faithfully in today’s world. For information on starting a small group using her 10-week Bible study, 101: Exploring the Basics of the Christian Faith, visit 101Christianity.com.