The global Church and Body of Christ have been commissioned with the task of sharing the gospel to the ends of the earth. Sadly, it’s easy to slip into a comfort zone instead of actively reaching out to those outside the church, and we must actively guard against this.

How does your local church follow the great commission Jesus gave us in Matthew 28? Sending overseas mission trips is a great ministry. Inviting neighbors’ kids to a Bible camp is also a great way to reach out to the community. But is your church being intentional about reaching those in your city who might be overlooked?

What is the role of the local church? Bible Verses about the local church

The best place to look for God’s desire and design for the local church is the Bible. We’ve pulled 3 key verses about our role as the local church to make God known and deliver the gospel to the lost.

The church makes God known to the world 

“[God’s] intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms…” Ephesians 3:10

Believers are called to preach the word

“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2

The body of Christ represents Christ

“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

The church is meant to be a multiplication hub for the gospel wherever it is planted. There needs to be active and intentional preparation for sharing the gospel, especially with those who are harder to reach– like our Muslim friends and neighbors.

The Local Church can grow an active outreach to share the gospel with Muslims

There are many ways your church can connect with the Muslims in your city to share the love of Christ.

1. Offer resources for church members

Does your church have evangelism resources readily available for its members? If a believer is intentionally trying to learn how to share the gospel with a Muslim friend or neighbor, would they know where to find help?

We have many free resources for you– including this blog you are reading! We also have three publications written specifically to help Christians understand Muslims and the religion they are under, which you can find here.

If your church is in North America, we also offer seminars and workshops where experienced speakers from our ministry will come and speak to your entire congregation, Bible study, or even church staff! We have virtual options as well. You can find out more if you email us at [email protected].

2. English as a second language

Many Muslims in the United States have come to this country for asylum from the violence and unrest in their native countries. These refugees have the same dreams as you but often are not prepared for the language barrier that awaits them.

Talk to your pastor about setting up free English classes for Muslims (and others) in your community who need help. Here, you can begin establishing relationships and provide them with a safe place. You never know, this might be the first time for the Muslims who attend to interact with a Christian, and this also makes them comfortable being in a church.

3. “Invite your one” initiatives

Designate a special Sunday for members of the church to invite at least one friend to church! Of course, this can help you reach more than just Muslims in your city, but this way the message is prepared in advance to touch the hearts of those who are not familiar with the gospel.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, show my church how You want us to reach the Muslims in our city and neighborhood. Inspire our hearts to be aligned with yours as we go to preach the gospel. Amen.