Barna released details of a recent survey on "American Lifestyles" and their "Compassion and Self-oriented Behaviors." The study states:

"Faith commitments sometimes play a role in what people do - but less often than might be assumed. In comparing the lifestyle choices of born again Christians to the national norms, there were more areas of similarity than distinction. (Note that in Barna surveys, the born again segment is not based upon whether a person uses that label, but based upon their profession of faith in Christ and confession of personal sin.) Born again Christians are more likely to volunteer for their church; however, they are no more likely than average to help the poor and homeless."

How can we apply this in our churches? This implies to me that we can invite the non-churched on our service projects. There seems to be a willingness to "do good" in the community. This can thus become an outreach tool. Those we are trying to reach may be more likely to accompany us on a trip like this than come to a "Bible study" in our home. Once we build the relationship, they may be more comfortable in visiting our groups.