1. Yes
2. No
3. Sometimes
We're going to talk about what to do when they say "YES" today.
The first thing you want to say is, "that's great!" Then ask them about their church and why they love it. The temptation will be to get them to move to your church. However, that's probably not the best thing to do. Our goal is to help Jesus build the kingdom by inviting people who don't go to church or who don't have a relationship with Jesus Christ. There's a term in the church world called "sheep steelers," and that's when one church steals people from another church, usually through cooler or more exciting worship and programs (not that our's isn't cool!). Our goal is NOT to steal sheep. We want to invite NEW people into a loving environment where all experience the grace of God.
Of course, you may not like the church your friend goes to and that's okay! What's most important is that they are growing in their relationship with Jesus. If they are being hurt, that is another topic to be discussed separately.
The conversation doesn't stop once your friend says he or she goes to church. Instead, it opens up a door to have faith conversations in your workplace, favorite restaurant, Elk's Club, wherever you hang out.
A couple of weeks ago I was at a lunch with some members of our church and during the time of prayer, the server asked us to pray about something specific. You never know where other Christ-followers are, but one thing is for sure: God is everywhere and people are tapping into the Spirit all the time. My goal for the next gathering is to ask her where she goes to church. She might not, but she may know that God exists and might want an invitation to our church.
Opening up a conversation about where someone goes to church may not lead to that person coming to yours, but it opens up a new place where faith can be developed. The possibilities for deepening a relationship with Jesus, and extending the ministries of the body of Christ are endless.
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