One of the coolest encounters of Scripture is that of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). In this section of Scripture, Jesus breaks down social barriers by talking to this woman, this causes her to open up about her life and eventually leads to the revelation that Jesus is the Messiah to come. When she hears this incredible news she goes back to her town and tells everyone to “come, see a man who told me all that I ever did” (John 4:29). Later, we’re told that many in the town believed because of the woman’s testimony. Oh, what power invitation has.
According to a study LifeWay Research did a few years ago “67% of Americans say a personal invitation from a family member would be very or somewhat effective in getting them to visit a church.” 63% said an invitation from a “friend or neighbor” would have the same effect.