https://youtu.be/Z_ie_1neiAU

Most churches miss this front door, not because of a lack of awareness but because of a lack of effort. Over half of the unchurched believe church could be a great place to make friends, but nearly 60% say it’s too intimidating to visit alone. That’s a huge opportunity. Today’s episode highlights how friendship, follow-up, and one key ingredient—an invitation—can lower the barrier and open the door for gospel conversations. Thom and Sam discuss some key takeaways from their new research.



* Don’t just invite—offer to sit with them.
* Make your church more relational than institutional.
* Hospitality teams should focus on emotional comfort, not just logistics.
* Friendship often precedes faith; prioritize connection over conversion.



Resources:

* Upward Running


* Rooted


* “Opening the front door: Worship and church growth” by James Emery White (affiliate link)


* “Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)


* Brown Church Development Group


* Church Growth Services: Get your free campaign capacity analysis!


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

 

 



* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship