7.08.2001 | CHRISTIAN TERMINOLOGY- "Evangelism"

Christian Terminology “Evangelism”

After a big holiday like the 4th, people usually will tell you more than you want to know about what they did. Why? Cause they are excited about it, think it’s important and are convinced you need to know. They are an evangelist

What comes to your mind when you hear the word evangelism, or evangelist?
Yep, someone like this….VIDEO
Why is evangelism sometimes a scary word?

Break down of the word:

Evangelism: “euangelion”, “good news, gospel, messenger of good news”
The real meaning is quite different than what we tend to think of… Ephesians 4:11& 12

“The process of communicating (not just verbally) the message of salvation to unbelievers.”

“Sharing the gospel.” “Spreading the word.” “Sowing the seeds.” “Sharing your faith.” “Witnessing.” …..others?

Thesis: We need to share our faith in a real, genuine, authentic way so that God would be honored and people brought to Christ.

1 Peter 3:15

Peter was an aggressive evangelist, sometimes to his detriment.
“Set apart Christ.” Put God first, trust him as to how, when, where you should tell others about Christ. Remember, we are tools in God’s hands. Real evangelism begins with a surrender to God.

“Always be prepared.” Think back to your school days. How do you best prepare for a quiz or test? (Study, study groups, go over and over the material, memorize, flash cards, sleep on the book…) You are passionate about somehow remembering the material.)
Now, compare that with our knowledge of Christianity….duh.

“To give an answer to everyone who asks you…” That’s hard work, but that’s our job.

“For the hope that you have.” Is there any hope in this world? “We don’t have all the answers, but we know Who does.”

“But do this with gentleness and respect.” Let me emphasize the word respect. Why is that so important? Because people aren’t morons if they aren’t Christians. Sometimes it’s the Christians who are morons in the way they go about it...VIDEO

Galatians 5:11 Often the cross (and everything involved with either becoming a Xian or being one) is offensive enough to a non-Xian without a self-righteous attitude or condemning spirit getting the way. How so?

That a man can be saved only by grace and faith is an offense to his pride.

“Jesus, save me from your people.”

In light of the sermon on predestination, what is our part in evangelism? Should we even bother “sharing our faith?” Matt. 28:19-20

Some practical tips on sharing your faith or sharing your story.

• You don’t have to be an expert on all things biblical to tell your friend how God has changed your life.
• Remember the power of a story. No one can deny what Christ has done for you, big or small. Being willing to dialog about all kinds of issues than just “You need Jesus.” Why? They do need Jesus but maybe not that instant…
• We need to respect the mystery of the faith and everyone’s journey.
• Often evangelism is more about living out your faith than just talking about it.
• Remember, the HS needs to work in a person’s heart also. Our timing for our friends coming to church or coming to Christ, isn’t always God’s timing. 1Cor. 3:6. Our job is to continue to faithfully sow the seeds. God will harvest the crop. Otherwise we’re “whacking ‘em on the back of the head with the sickle.”
• Evangelism is a process, not a sales job. We either build bridges or put up fences with our actions. (my neighbors…) Invite your friends to some of our non-church events.
  
• Pray for your friends by name.
• Always look for creative ways to share the gospel and your Christianity.
• Don’t feel like you need to save the entire planet. What is your mission field and who are the people God has placed in your life?
• You do need to know some of the very basics.
• Get training. We offer training with our new home fellowship that will a rotating 6 week course.
  
• Love ‘em like crazy and ask ‘em to forgive you when you mess up.

From the book, "Amazing Grace", pg. 302

- In today’s postmodern context, I can almost guarantee that a forced, rational, logical, scientific, canned, “4 steps”, “lets put God in a box” approach will not work.

- Let’s embrace the mystery, beauty, reverence, awe, fear and experience of God as we attempt to grasp almighty God.

Col. 3:12 “kindness, compassion, humility…”

Thesis: We need to share our faith in a real, genuine, authentic way so that God would be honored and people brought to Christ.

Conclusion: My story. I knew the basics from early on...I had to own it for myself

Prayer/reflection/silence/prayer

Closing worship...

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