Think about the people who respond to a sermon. Those who need to confess sin are rarely ready to do so publicly. Confession is best done in a more private setting. Those who need to come to Christ usually need some additional study or at least a chance to discuss new birth in a setting with less pressure. As a minister, I hate being put on the spot when someone I don’t know that well comes wanting to be baptized. I’ve learned to say, “This person is interested in giving their life to their Lord and we’re going to spend some time studying about that.”

The one scenario that seems to fit is when a person wants to request congregational prayer. For that, it seems appropriate to come down and make that request, although it could just as easily be done by speaking with someone in private.

I think it’s time to rethink the invitation song. Many congregations already are. A lot of churches are working to make this a more prayerful time, a time when the shepherds of the congregation can spend time praying with those who need prayer. Some do this by having a designated room for prayer. Others have the elders walk the aisles during the “invitation song,” praying with those who need prayer. Others invite people to go to the back to meet with brothers who are prepared to counsel, study or pray with them.

I hope we can break away from the bonds of tradition and not have an invitation “just because.” If it truly meets the need of a congregation, great. If not, let’s explore other ways to do it.