December 17, 2025

The Rainer Scale of Unchurched Receptivity

28 minutes

The Rainer Scale helps churches understand how open an unchurched person is to the gospel, to spiritual conversation, and to attending church. It is not a judgment of spiritual worth, but a practical tool for identifying likely openness.

U1 — Highly Receptive

U2 — Moderately Receptive

U3 — Neutral / Passive

U4 — Resistant

U5 — Highly Resistant

Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary

Upward Running

“Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

“The Unchurched Next Door” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

The Unchurched Report – coming in 2026!

The Hope Initiative

Church Answers Membership

FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.

Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.

Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

Flexible online format that fits your schedule.

Equipping men and women called by God.

An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!

If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

New Year, New Goals with Upward Running

It’s a new year—time for new fitness goals! Upward Running gives your church a fun and effective way to reach adults in your congregation and community. Offer a 5K Challenge that promotes both spiritual and fitness growth, helping participants build relationships, encourage one another, and experience health and wellness together. With Upward Running, your small group or adult ministry can engage adults in a meaningful, active, and relational way.

Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post The Rainer Scale of Unchurched Receptivity appeared first on Church Answers.

...more