One Prayer, One Conversation, One Story

What Is Three Ones?

Three Ones is a simple and Spirit-led way to live out outreach one step at a time. It’s not a program or a script; it’s a lifestyle of walking with others toward Jesus through everyday relationships. It follows Jesus’ example through making personal connections, showing deep compassion, and being led by the Holy Spirit. Built around One Prayer, One Conversation, and One Story, this framework helps believers join God’s mission right where they are. Whether you’re just beginning or growing in outreach, it starts with what you already have: One Prayer. One Conversation. One Story.

  • One Prayer starts outreach by aligning our hearts with God.
  • One Conversation can open doors by creating space for spiritual connection.
  • One Story shared can make an eternal difference by awakening faith in others.

Why the Three Ones?

The world is changing, but the good news of Jesus still speaks—especially when shared in simple, meaningful ways. The Three Ones is:

Biblically Rooted

Each “One” flows from how Jesus lived and led others to faith.
Jesus prayed (Luke 5:16), engaged in conversations (John 4), and encouraged people to share their stories (Mark 5:19–20).

Culturally Relevant

In today’s world of distraction, skepticism, and spiritual curiosity, people long for authenticity, purpose, and connection.
The Three Ones helps you meet people where they are—with grace, not pressure.

Relationally Powerful

Outreach isn’t about big moments—it’s about small, faithful steps in real relationships.
→ Real transformation often begins with just one prayer, one conversation, or one shared story—small steps that grow through genuine relationships.

Simple, Lightweight, and Reproducible

With the Three Ones, anyone can begin. And like any relationship, it deepens through honest connection, gentle reflection, and a heart willing to walk alongside others in love.
→ Anyone can take one step—pray for someone, talk with someone, or share a story. The Three Ones makes outreach simple, natural, and doable.

One Prayer

It all starts with One Prayer—God moves in you before He moves through you.

One simple, sincere prayer can open the door to someone’s journey toward Jesus. When you pray by name for just one person, you connect with God’s heart and begin walking with them in love and faith. It’s not about saying the perfect words—it’s about letting God move in you before He moves through you.

Practical Actions

  • Pray by name—just one minute a day can make a real difference.
  • Ask God to shape your heart—that you would grow in love and compassion for others.
  • Pray for their heart—that God would gently prepare them to receive His love.

One Conversation

It all starts with One Conversation—God moves as we open space to listen.

One meaningful conversation can become the bridge that draws someone closer to Jesus. When you listen with love, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine curiosity, you create space for trust to grow. Conversations don’t need to be deep right away—just real. Outreach grows one honest exchange at a time.

Practical Actions

  • Listen with care and curiosity.
  • Ask sincere, thoughtful questions.
  • Be patient—let trust grow naturally.

One Story

It all starts with One Story—God uses your story to plant seeds last forever.

One honest story can plant a seed of hope in someone’s heart. Whether it’s your personal journey with Jesus or a simple story from Scripture, sharing with love and humility opens space for God to speak. You don’t need to have all the answers—just a willingness to share what’s real and true.

Practical Actions

  • Share your personal story of faith or a Bible story.
  • Speak honestly and gently, with love and respect.
  • Trust God’s timing—don’t force or rush the moment.

How Three Ones Helped Others

I’ve been praying, “God, help me notice who You’re working on around me.” I want prayer to be part of my everyday conversations. One day, I was talking with my friend Sarah. We usually chat about life, but this time she opened up about feeling overwhelmed. I felt a quiet nudge to ask, “Would you like me to pray for you right now?” She paused, then said, “Actually… I would love that.” It was a simple, honest prayer—but it really touched her. I’m learning that offering to pray in the moment can open hearts in powerful ways—one prayer at a time.
One Prayer
Cathy Evans
Outreach isn’t a program or a technique. It’s not something I turn on or off. I’ve simply been praying, “God, would You be with me in my everyday conversations?” I’m asking Him to help me notice people, care well, and trust that He’s already working in their hearts. The other day, I had a conversation with Mike. We’ve talked before—mostly about work and surface-level things. But this time, I slowed down and really listened. As we talked, he shared something difficult he’s been going through. I don’t know where this conversation will lead yet—but I can’t wait to see how God continues to work.
One Conversation
Brent Thompson
Over time, I noticed my friend Allison becoming more open to spiritual conversations. We had built trust through lots of everyday moments, and I could see her curiosity slowly growing. One day, she asked me, “Can I ask… how did you come to know Christ?” I didn’t have a perfectly prepared answer—I just shared my story. I told her what my life was like before Jesus, how I came to trust Him, and how He’s been changing me ever since. It was simple, real, and honest. In that moment, I realized—this is what I’ve been praying for: a chance to share my story when someone is ready to hear it. I’m learning that when we walk with people patiently, God often opens the door to share our story—one story at a time.
One Story
Eun Lee

"Outreach is not a program or technique. It’s simply walking with people through everyday life, just like Jesus did."

Relational Outreach Tools: Walking with Others

Tools and insights to help you journey with people toward Jesus, one step at a time — by understanding how people come to Jesus and grow into spiritual maturity.

People come to know Jesus in many different ways, but most follow common steps on their journey—from being non-Christians to becoming followers of Christ and growing in their faith. By understanding these steps, you’ll be better equipped to have caring, thoughtful conversations and to walk alongside others with the love, patience, and timing of Jesus. For each step, you’ll find practical resources like videos, websites, conversation tips, and Bible studies—designed to help you support people as they take their next step toward Jesus and spiritual maturity.

Part 1: Coming to Faith (Steps Toward Jesus)

Typical Mindset: Why Relationship Matters Most

Many people begin their journey toward faith with deep hesitation. They’re often guarded and cautious, keeping emotional and spiritual distance. While they may not openly criticize Christianity, they quietly wrestle with whether Christians—or God—can truly be trusted. Some are skeptical of motives, assuming Christians are pushy or have hidden agendas. Others carry negative past experiences, such as being hurt by the church or growing up in environments where faith was mocked or dismissed. Cultural influence also shapes their view—portraying Christians as narrow-minded, anti-science, or hypocritical. As a result, they’re often uninterested in spiritual conversations and may avoid them entirely. And yet, beneath the surface, many are craving authenticity. They long to encounter people who are real, humble, and kind—people who live out their faith with no strings attached.

That’s why relationships matter most in this early stage. People don’t trust resources—they trust people. No book or video can replace the power of a consistent, caring friendship. Many carry deep skepticism that only softens when they experience genuine care from someone who reflects the heart of Jesus. Over time, trust begins to grow—not through clever arguments, but through steady love. Each moment of kindness becomes a seed of hope, slowly breaking down walls and opening the door for deeper conversations.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

Walk slowly. Love genuinely. Listen well. Trust God for the growth.
Your role isn’t to push but to be present. This stage is about patience, presence, and trust-building.

  • Be Present, Not Pushy
    Don’t try to “fix” them. Be a steady, caring friend. Let your actions speak louder than your words. Your presence and attention can speak volumes.
  • Show Consistent Kindness
    Be dependable. Help when they’re in need. Celebrate life with them. Let them see love in action—without expecting anything in return.
  • Practice Hospitality
    Invite them into your life. Coffee, meals, shared activities—these are the natural places where trust is formed and faith can quietly grow.
  • Avoid Debates
    This isn’t the time for apologetics or arguments. Instead of trying to prove something, aim to understand and care.
  • Pray for Open Doors
    Ask God to soften their heart, open opportunities, and give you sensitivity to respond with grace and truth when the moment is right.

Resource Books

Typical Mindset

After trust begins to form, some people slowly start to open up. They may not be ready to embrace Christianity, but they’re less guarded than before. Curiosity is stirring. They’re more willing to talk about spiritual things—not in a confrontational way, but with real questions and wonder.

At this stage, they might say things like:

  • “Why do you believe in God?”

  • “How do you make sense of suffering?”

  • “What makes your faith matter to you?”

They’re not asking to start a debate. They’re testing the waters—wondering if faith has something real to offer. This openness is often subtle. It shows up in moments of vulnerability, deeper questions, or a quiet willingness to listen.

But this is also a fragile stage. People may still carry past doubts, assumptions, or fears. If the conversation feels forced or if they sense judgment, they may pull back. That’s why tone, timing, and trust remain essential.

This is not the time to give them “all the answers.” It’s time to walk gently with them, offering grace, humility, and hope as they explore.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

Stay curious. Speak with grace. Watch for God’s open doors.

  • Engage with Gentle Curiosity
    Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions. Show genuine interest in their story, and avoid jumping in with quick fixes. Be someone who seeks to understand, not just to be understood.
  • Name Spiritual Moments
    If they share something vulnerable, you might say, “That sounds really hard—can I tell you how my faith helped me in something similar?” Don’t force the gospel—just offer real-life connections.
  • Share Small Stories
    You don’t need a dramatic testimony. A moment when prayer gave you peace, or when you felt seen by God, can powerfully open hearts. Keep it short, real, and personal.
  • Be Okay with “I Don’t Know”
    You don’t need to have every answer. It’s okay to say, “That’s a really good question—I wonder about that too sometimes.” Your honesty builds credibility.
  • Pray for Courage and Clarity
    Ask God for wisdom to know when to speak and when to listen. Trust the Spirit to lead you into the right moments, with the right words.

Resource Books

Typical Mindset

As trust grows, some people shift from guarded openness to genuine curiosity. They’re not ready to believe yet, but they’re beginning to consider the possibility that Christianity might hold real answers. Their interest is often sincere, though still tentative. They ask thoughtful questions—not to argue, but to understand.

You might hear them say things like:

  • “What if there is something more to life?”

  • “Why does Jesus matter so much to Christians?”

  • “What do you mean when you say God is personal?”

They’re exploring—not just ideas, but meaning. They’re weighing what they’ve heard, seen, or experienced, and beginning to wonder: Could this be true? Could this be for me?

This stage is marked by thoughtful curiosity, spiritual openness, and a search for connection. But it’s also a time of tension. Old beliefs or wounds may compete with new possibilities. People may lean in, then back away—uncertain of what they’ll find if they go further.

That’s why this stage requires patient presence, a listening posture, and spiritual sensitivity. It’s less about giving answers and more about helping them want to find them.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

Be a steady, gracious companion on their journey toward truth.

Invite Questions, Not Pressure
Say things like, “That’s a really thoughtful question—what do you think about it?” Invite reflection. Don’t rush to correct or convince.

Let the Bible Speak Softly
You might gently introduce Scripture—something simple and meaningful—like, “This verse really helped me when I felt lost.” Let God’s Word stir their curiosity.

Connect the Dots Gently
If they share struggles or longings, connect them to deeper spiritual themes: hope, purpose, forgiveness. You’re not giving a sermon—just pointing toward meaning.

Model a Thinking Faith
Be honest about your own journey—how you’ve wrestled with questions, and what’s led you to trust Jesus. Help them see that faith is not blind; it’s considered and tested.

Pray Behind the Scenes
Ask God to stir their hearts and remove spiritual obstacles. Pray for discernment—when to speak, when to stay silent, when to simply be present.

Resource Books

Typical Mindset

At this stage, something is clicking. The questions aren’t just about spirituality in general anymore—they’re now pointed toward Jesus. People are beginning to grasp the unique claims of the gospel: who Jesus is, what He’s done, and why it matters personally.

They may not yet have full faith, but there’s a growing sense that the Christian message could actually be true. They’re comparing what they’re learning to their own experience and wondering, “Could this really be for me?” A clearer picture of Jesus is forming—maybe for the first time.

You might hear them say things like:

  • “I’m starting to see how Jesus is different from other religious leaders.”

  • “The idea of grace—that God would love me no matter what—is hard to believe, but it’s beautiful.”

  • “I’ve never thought about the cross this way before.”

Their curiosity is shifting into discovery. The gospel is becoming more than a concept—it’s becoming personal. They may be moved by a story, a Scripture, or a conversation that lingers with them.

But this is also a tender and pivotal time. They’re weighing what it would mean to believe. Past wounds, fears of rejection, or misconceptions about faith can still get in the way. That’s why clarity, compassion, and continued relationship are so important here.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

  • Gently clarify the gospel.
    As their understanding deepens, help them connect the dots: who Jesus is, why the cross matters, and how grace is different from religion or good works.

  • Share how Jesus has changed your life.
    Make it personal. Stories of your own transformation or moments of doubt and discovery can help make faith feel real—not just theoretical.

  • Invite them into Scripture.
    Offer to read a short passage together, like a story from the Gospels. Ask, “What stands out to you?” or “What do you think this says about Jesus?”

  • Focus on Jesus, not behavior.
    Avoid moralizing. This isn’t the time to critique their lifestyle—it’s the time to show who Jesus is and how He loves them.

  • Create space to process.
    Don’t rush them. Let them wrestle with questions, doubts, and emotions. A safe, listening presence matters more than having all the right answers.

  • Pray specifically for revelation.
    Ask God to open their heart to the truth of the gospel. Pray for clarity, courage, and the Spirit’s gentle conviction.

  • Invite them to explore further.
    Consider inviting them to Alpha, a gospel-centered Bible study, or a safe small group where they can keep discovering at their pace.

Resource Books

Part 2: Growing in Faith (Steps Toward Maturity)

Typical Mindset

After exploring spiritual questions and discovering who Jesus is, some people begin to realize they’re not meant to walk alone. They’ve tasted glimpses of truth—and now they’re longing for connection, purpose, and a place to call home. They may not have fully committed to Christ yet, but they’re drawn to the warmth and authenticity of Christian community.

At this stage, they might say things like:

  • “I’ve never felt this kind of welcome before.”

  • “I wish I had people like this in my life earlier.”

  • “I don’t agree with everything yet, but I love being around you all.”

They’re not just curious anymore—they’re beginning to belong. Not because of shared beliefs (yet), but because of shared love. They’re building friendships, asking deeper questions, showing up more often. They may still wrestle with doubts, but they’re also experiencing the beauty of being seen, valued, and included.

This is a sacred time. It’s often in community that people see the gospel lived out—in grace, patience, joy, and truth. And that lived witness can soften even the most hesitant hearts.

Caution: People at this stage can still feel like outsiders if they don’t see diversity, authenticity, or space to be real. Overly “churchy” language or pressure to conform too quickly can create distance. What they need most is consistent, welcoming presence—not perfection.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

  • Be a Bridge, Not a Barrier
    Invite them into everyday rhythms—meals, small groups, events, or even just coffee. Help them feel like they don’t need to “believe before they belong.”

  • Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
    Affirm signs of growth, openness, or relational connection. Simple encouragement like, “I love that you’re here,” or “You ask great questions,” helps them feel seen and safe.

  • Create Space for Questions and Doubts
    Let them wrestle out loud without rushing to fix or correct. Practice listening more than answering. A non-anxious presence builds trust.

  • Include Them Authentically
    Give them low-pressure ways to contribute—bringing snacks, joining a project, helping set up. Let them see they’re needed, not just welcomed.

  • Model Real Christian Community
    Be honest about your own struggles, your need for grace, and how your faith shapes your life. Let them witness community that’s honest, humble, and joyful—not polished and performative.

  • Pray for Heart Connection
    Ask God to help them experience His love not just through theology, but through people—real friendships, spiritual family, and a sense of belonging in the body of Christ.

Resource Books

Typical Mindset

At this stage, people are no longer just learning about Jesus—they’re starting to live like Him. The truths of Scripture are becoming more than ideas; they’re becoming habits, decisions, and actions. Their faith is becoming visible in their everyday life—how they treat others, how they make choices, and how they respond to challenges.

They might say things like:

  • “I’ve been trying to love people the way Jesus loves me.”

  • “I started praying with my kids before school.”

  • “I’m trying to forgive someone—it’s hard, but I know it’s what God wants.”

This is where transformation takes root. Obedience becomes a response to grace, not duty. People begin to align their lives with God’s Word, one step at a time. They still stumble—but now they’re learning to walk with Jesus, not just talk about Him.

But It’s Not Easy

Applying truth can feel costly. It might mean letting go of old habits, facing conflict, or making countercultural choices. They may wrestle with doubts, inconsistency, or fear of failure. Encouragement, accountability, and grace-filled support are crucial in this season of growth.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

  • Emphasize Obedience Over Information.
    Encourage them not just to learn more, but to ask: “What is God calling me to do with this?” Remind them that transformation happens through obedience, not just insight.
  • Ask Reflective Application Questions.
    Model questions like:
    • “How does this Scripture apply to your current situation?”
    • “What’s one step you could take this week in response?”
  • Create Safe Space for Honest Growth.
    Let them wrestle with Scripture and how to apply it. Be a safe person to process with—especially when obedience feels difficult or costly.
  • Celebrate Small Steps of Faith.
    Whether they forgave someone, chose integrity, or prayed for a neighbor—affirm even small acts of obedience. These steps build momentum.
  • Encourage Scripture-to-Life Habits.
    Introduce journaling, prayer-walks, or SOAP (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) to help them internalize and apply God’s Word daily.
  • Invite Them Into Action.
    If they’re studying generosity, serve together. If they’re reading about love, reach out to someone lonely. Move from study to story—help them live it.
  • Share Your Own Journey.
    Be honest about how you’re trying to live out God’s Word too—your challenges, wins, and ongoing growth. Your example gives them courage.
  • Disciple Them in Real-Life Rhythms.
    Teach them to weave Scripture into their family life, work, and relationships—not as a separate category, but as a guiding force in daily living.

Resource Books

Typical Mindset

As someone matures in their faith, a shift begins—faith is no longer just personal; it becomes purposeful. They start to sense that following Jesus means joining Him in His mission. There’s a growing desire to serve, share, and reflect Christ in everyday life. They may not feel fully equipped, but they’re willing to step out in faith.

At this stage, they might say things like:

  • “I want to make a difference with my life.”

  • “How can I share my faith with others?”

  • “God’s been teaching me so much—I don’t want to keep it to myself.”

  • “I want my life to point people to Jesus.”

They’re asking deeper questions about purpose, calling, and how to align their life with God’s mission. This stage is marked by an eagerness to grow in love, courage, and obedience—even when it stretches them beyond comfort.

But they also need support—encouragement, practical tools, and community—to stay faithful and fruitful. Without it, they may grow discouraged or unsure of how to keep living missionally in real-life relationships.

How to Walk with Them: Practical Actions

  • Normalize the Struggle.
    Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure about sharing their faith. Affirm that boldness grows with practice and prayer.
  • Encourage Real-Life Mission.
    Help them see that mission isn’t just about going overseas—it’s about loving neighbors, coworkers, classmates, and friends with intentionality.
  • Model Missional Living.
    Invite them into your life. Let them see how you pray for others, engage in spiritual conversations, and respond with grace and truth.
  • Teach Gospel Clarity.
    Help them clearly articulate what they believe and why it matters. Practice sharing the gospel in simple, personal, and compelling ways.
  • Offer Outreach Tools.
    Provide them with resources like conversation starters, prayer cards, or simple outreach ideas (e.g., hosting a meal, volunteering together, writing a testimony).
  • Create Accountability & Encouragement.
    Form small groups or pairs where they can pray, debrief, and encourage one another in living missionally.
  • Celebrate Obedience, Not Just Results.
    Affirm steps of faith, even when conversations don’t go as planned. Remind them that God is at work through their faithfulness.
  • Invite Them to Lead or Serve.
    Empower them with opportunities to serve in ministry or help lead others in spiritual growth. Responsibility strengthens maturity.

Resource Books

Pizza & Prayer Night

We Get Together to Pray for thE Neighborhood.

Would you like to open your home on a Friday night?
It’s a great way to build friendships with church members in your neighborhood and to pray together for your neighbors to come to know Jesus!

Shared Hobbies, Interests, and Activities

You’d Be Surprised!

Your hobbies and interests can open doors to meaningful relationships. Think about the groups in your community you could join—whether it’s building something, learning a new language, riding motorcycles, or simply doing what you enjoy. You might even be the one to start a new hobby group!

These natural settings often create the best opportunities to share both your story and God’s story in everyday conversations.

Featured Organizations

These groups are bringing influence, making a difference, and serving both Christian and non-Christian communities.