Stay Connected

What About Those Who Don't Commit?

Not everyone who completes an introductory course will be ready to make a commitment to following Jesus. Some may need more time to think and pray. Others may have questions or doubts they're still working through. A few may decide that faith isn't for them right now.

Whatever the reason, it's important not to view these people as "failures" or write them off. Their journey isn't over—it's just at a different stage.

Keep the Door Open

When someone completes a course but doesn't commit, the worst thing you can do is let them disappear without any follow-up. Instead, keep the door open for future connection.

Designate patient, caring individuals to follow up gently—perhaps through a friendly email, phone call, or coffee invitation. The key is to stay in touch without applying pressure or making people feel guilty.

What to Say

When following up, your message should be warm, non-judgmental, and open-ended. For example:

"It was great having you as part of the course. I know faith is a big decision, and there's no rush. If you'd ever like to talk more, ask questions, or just catch up, I'd love to hear from you. You're always welcome."

Avoid language that implies failure or disappointment. Instead, affirm their journey and let them know the church community is there if and when they're ready.

Invite Them to Future Opportunities

Keep these individuals on your radar for future courses, church events, or social gatherings. Sometimes people need to explore faith multiple times before they're ready to commit. A second or third course might be exactly what they need.

Invite them to:

• Future Alpha, Pilgrim, or Christianity Explored courses
• Social events or community gatherings at church
• Special services like Christmas, Easter, or Harvest
• Informal meet-ups with others from the course

Pray for Them

Most importantly, commit to praying for those who haven't yet made a commitment. Trust that God is at work in their lives, even when you can't see it. Faith is a journey, and the timing belongs to God, not to us.