“Go and make disciples” wasn’t just a suggestion.

Bible study groups are great at digging deep, praying hard, and bringing food that could win awards. But when it comes to evangelism? Sometimes we get a little… cozy. Comfortable. Maybe even a tad insulated. (No judgment—we’ve all been there.) A friend of mine once said, “The natural inertia of any group is to turn inward,” which is why we must work hard to maintain an outward, gospel-focused orientation.

What if your group could be a place where spiritual seekers feel welcome, where the gospel is naturally shared, and where the Great Commission isn’t just a memory verse but a group mission? Here are a few practical ways to help your Bible study group become more evangelistically focused:

1. Pray Like You Mean It (and Name Names!)

Start by praying regularly and specifically for people who don’t yet know Jesus. Encourage group members to write down the names of friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors they’re burdened for. Then pray for them—out loud, together, and often.

This isn’t just a spiritual warm-up. It’s a way to keep evangelism on the front burner. When you pray for people by name, your heart stays soft, your eyes stay open, and your group stays focused on the mission.

Although the language in the following quote is a bit dated today (it was written in 1920!), it still rings true. It emphasizes the role that a group leader can have in leading his or her group to be evangelistically focused. Private prayer for the lost can work its way into the Bible study group experience, too:

 “Each teacher should have a prayer list both of the lost pupils in his class and of the lost who are prospects for his class. This list should be kept in the Bible and daily spread out before God as the teacher prays for each one by name… Many Sunday School pupils can be reached only through prayer.” – Building a Standard Sunday School, p.103.

2. Make Space for Guests—Literally and Relationally

If your group feels like a private club with assigned seats and inside jokes, it might be time for a little hospitality makeover. Keep an extra chair open. Avoid cliques. Explain things clearly (not everyone knows what a “quiet time” is). And maybe—just maybe—don’t make newcomers introduce themselves with a 5-minute life story on their first visit.

Instead, create a culture where guests feel like they’re walking into a living room, not a lecture hall. A warm smile and a genuine “We’re glad you’re here” go a long way.

3. Plan Something That’s Not a Bible Study (Gasp!)

Sometimes the best way to reach people is to meet them where they are—at a backyard BBQ, a game night, or a service project. Hosting a casual, low-pressure event gives group members a chance to invite friends who might not be ready for a verse-by-verse study of Leviticus (or Song of Solomon).

These moments build trust, open doors, and show that Christians are (surprise!) normal people who laugh, eat chips, and care about others.

Juan Carlos Ortiz once said, “People who are opposed to the gospel are not opposed to ice cream.” That’s a good insight! Even though the people you’re reaching may not be opposed to the gospel, we all like doing social activities with others. Sometimes a person becomes a member of your group before they officially become a member of your group.

4. Keep the Gospel Central—Not Just Assumed

It’s easy to assume everyone in the group already knows the gospel. But don’t miss the chance to weave it into your discussions naturally and regularly. Whether you’re studying Daniel or diving into James, look for ways to point to Jesus—His grace, His cross, His invitation.

You never know when someone in the group is hearing it clearly for the first time—or when a believer needs to be reminded of the good news all over again.

Final Thought:

Evangelism doesn’t have to be awkward or forced. It starts with prayer, continues with intentionality, and thrives in a group that genuinely loves people. So keep the snacks coming, keep the Bibles open, and keep your hearts turned outward. You never know who might walk through the door next.