5 Keys for How to Break Out of Christianville

Christainville (noun)- a place Christians get trapped in through to much church activity, to many relationships with other Christians, and to much time spent in circles with other Christians. 

As a pastor it can become really easy to slip into Christianville where everyone I see, talk to and have relationship with is a Christian. The following is a list of "5 Keys for How to Break Out of Christianville" and make an impact in the "circles of opportunity" all around us. Its my personal plan and I hope it can serve as a guide for you on how to reach those that are dis-connected from God.

1. Inquire of God- In one word, "PRAY"! Find out who God has placed in your life to reach for Him. Find out how God wants you to reach them. He knows what will be effective, and meaningful to people.

2. Identify circles of opportunity. "Circles of opportunity" are those circles of people in your life that are dis-connected from God. My "circles of opportunity" are:

• The gym
• My sons preschool
• People at our neighborhood park 
• Our neighbors
• Those I run into while "out and about"

3. Invest in meaningful conversation. Once you have Identified your circles of opportunity and inquired of God about these people. Begin to look for and step into opportunities to engage people in conversation

• Learn peoples names
• Make small talk (this helps people feel comfortable)
• Ask questions about their life (most people love to talk about themselves)

4. Invite people to church. Once you have Inquired, Identified and Invested its time to step out and Invite them to church or a church event or function. If you have invested in people relationally and have favor with them a personal invitation may be all they need to come to church. Christmas Eve, Easter, and church events are always good times to invite. Some things to remember:

• Carry invitations. Give them something with necessary information about what you are inviting them to.
• Remember no one wants to be a "project". Don't treat people like they are your "project" that will turn them off to your invite
• Make the invite simple. Don't feel like you have to "preach" to them before they come to church. Coming across overly "preachy" may turn people off to your invitation. 
• Have personal conviction. Sometimes coming across weak or un-convinced can turn people off. I believe that passion and conviction about your beliefs polarizes people. Those who are open will be drawn to you and those opposed will be turned off. Focus on the ones who are drawn in by your passion and convictions.

5. Include people in your life. After you have, inquired, identified, invested and invited make sure to include them in your everyday life. This one is hard because it means opening your home and life to people. Here are some idea of how to include people in your life:

• Have a meal or coffee together.
• Invite them to be a part of a small group you are a part of.
• Do things together. Shared experiences bring people together and creates vulnerability and trust. 
• Include them in a family birthday party or celebration

I am on a journey in living this out in a greater and greater measure every day. What has God led you to do to reach those in your "circles of opportunity"? I would love to hear ideas and stories. Is there anything you would add to these thoughts?

For more thoughts by like-minded people visit here.