As we all get ready for the weekend, the church services, the Easter egg hunts and the bright colors that fill the stores, let us take a moment to remember how this weekend can change the lives of others who do not yet believe.

It is easy to go through the motions of easter and simply just remember what Christ did for us. But, this weekend of all the weekends is the one weekend that we, as Christians should be on mission for non-believers.

The Invitation

Easter Sunday and Christmas are the most attended church services of the year. It is more than probable that pastors of churches are preparing for services geared to gospel presentation messages, especially Easter. (Visit our blog by Dr. Larry Moyer to read about the importance of presenting the gospel in every message.)

Is there a person you have in mind? Someone you know that does not believe in the good news? Have you personally tried planting seeds or shared the gospel with that person and they just haven’t had their “AHA” moment? Or are you nervous or fear the rejection of sharing the gospel with them?

This is the perfect opportunity to extend an invitation and let the pastor do his thing. It removes the pressure, fear, or nerves of sharing the gospel with that person(s) and allows them to hear this vital message from someone new. Simply extend an invitation.

They said “No” to the invitation… Now what?

In the event you invite someone, and they say no, do not be defeated. Do not respond in anger, frustration, or offense. Simply respond with compassion and grace. If they are already not attending a service, let them know that if they change their mind, the invitation remains.

After the service

After the service, be open and ready to have conversations about the service. Ask them questions about what they thought or if they would like to come again.

Don’t get comfortable and treat this Sunday like any other church service. Make this one different. Introduce them to your small group members or a team member of the church. Grab breakfast together before church, or lunch afterward. Make it special and eventful. Show how much you appreciate that person attending this service with you.

What to do if they respond to the gospel message

If they respond to the gospel, celebrate! Let them meet with someone who can help them take the next steps to get involved, get baptized, find a small group, etc. Celebrate the new life they are entering and pray with them that they may prosper and bear fruit in this life-changing decision.

Follow up with them a few days after or a week later to see how they are doing. Let them know that you are going to be there as they are navigating what it means to be a believer.

Here are a few Bible verses to share with them for encouragement:

• Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” -John 11:25-26
• And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. -1 Corinthians 6:14
• The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. ” -Romans 6:8-11
• Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. -Proverbs 3:5-6
• For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 6:23
• Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

What if they reject the gospel message?

Once again, don’t fret. If after the service they state that this was not for them and they say no to the gospel, don’t take responsibility or feel defeated. Instead, remain optimistic and add them to your prayer list. (Visit our blog So they say “No” to the gospel – Now what? by Dr. Larry Moyer to learn more about how to respond.)

He owed us nothing, so we owe Him everything

Ultimately, remember that no matter the outcome, whether someone comes to Christ or not, it is your mission to share the good news that Christ is alive, defeated death, and here to make us new!

Jesus died for us on the cross, suffered excruciating pain, shame, and torment then came back to life so that we can live an eternal life with God. Someone so flawless and pure owed us nothing, yet, He took our shame and sin so we could be closer to God. Because of this, we owe Him everything. We should be honored to share this gift with others.

Don’t hesitate this Easter to invite that person who needs to hear this message. This Easter can be an opportunity for someone you know to make a life-changing decision to follow Christ. Pursue Christ’s calling for us and take the chance to see something wonderful potentially unfold.

“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation,’” Mark 16:15.