EVANGELISM AND CHURCH PLANTING IN EAST AFRICA
(SUDAN, UGANDA, CONGO, CAR & KENYA)
A TWO HOUR CREDIT FOR CLIHM
CONCORDIA LUTHERAN INSTITUTE FOR THE HOLY MINISTRY
The Rev. Dr. Bernie Lutz
The Rev. Dr. Robert Rahn
The publishing of this volume has been made possible by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.
© Bernie Lutz. Used by permission.
The Lutheran Heritage Foundation Macomb, Michigan USA www.LHFmissions.org
EVANGELISM AND CHURCH PLANTING IN EAST AFRICA
Course Description:
Evangelism and Outreach for East Africa offers ten steps to consider when bringing the Gospel to a new community. Each step is an important step to effectively crossing the cultural barriers that often bring tension, conflict and rejection of the Gospel. (2 credits)
TEN STEPS FOR EFFECTIVE EVANGELISM AND OUTREACH:
1.Step One ATTITUDE
2.Step Two THE MESSAGE
3.Step Three CHRISTIAN BEHAVIOR
4.Step Four CULTURE DIFFERENCES
5. Step Five THE PURE GOSPEL
6.Step Six THE HOLY TRINITY
7.Step Seven THE LIFE OF JESUS
8.Step Eight THE HOLY BIBLE
9. Step Nine BIBLE STUDY AND PRAYER
10.Step Ten CREATING A WORSHIP COMMUNITY
FOREWORD
God takes the humble and meek things of life and changes them into great and honorable things! Consider the man Abram who becomes Abraham, the father of the Jewish nation, who becomes the father of all nations; or consider David the humble shepherd boy, who becomes a forefather of Jesus the Messiah.
God took an unfinished church in Yambio, Sudan and turned it into a spectacular seminary classroom! He took the humble Lutheran Guest House and made it into a seminary dormitory and staff office for the Concordia Lutheran Institute for the Holy Ministry.
This academic course, “Evangelization and Church Planting in East Africa,” is the last course this graduating class will study prior to graduation and ordination into the Lutheran ministry.
This course is a very fitting one for young men entering the Holy Ministry because it reviews the basic steps that need to be taken to bring the Gospel of salvation to the lost. It considers the truths that are used by the evangelist to show the lost the road to find forgiveness, love and last peace.
God worked through His Word to bring faith to the people of Sudan, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan was formed. God gave the ELCS Bishop Andrew Mbugo Elisa, who worked to establish this church body, and, in fact, helped develop the curriculum this graduating class has used for the past three years!
May the steps found in this booklet be a blessing for those who now graduate and for the many who follow to equip themselves for the Holy Ministry.
The Rev. Dr. Bernie Lutz 8 October 2010
STEP 1: Attitude
An evangelist stepped into a bank elevator in Hamra, the banking district of Beirut, Lebanon. There were three men in the elevator. He struck up a conversation with one of the three men and handed him a calling card with his telephone number. That man called the evangelist and wanted to learn more about the Lutheran faith. This man was brought to the USA, completed a seminary program, and is now a Lutheran church pastor.
The attitude of that evangelist was very important in the process of reaching people with the Good News. Why do you think the evangelist passed out a calling card?
1.ATTITUDE: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE TOWARD EVANGELISM AND OUTREACH includes …Love for God …Love for people (how we show love, how we do not show love) 1 John 4: 8
A person’s outlook toward evangelism is very important. Attitude affects the approach one takes in reaching people who do not know the Lord Jesus Christ. One’s attitude affects the manner in which we plan, prepare and pursue an outreach scheme. One’s proper attitude toward evangelism must be based on the Gospel; in other words, a strong desire to reach the lost. “Do I really need to bring the Good News to those who are living without Jesus?” The attitude one has toward evangelism affects the end result one takes toward reaching those who are not Christian. Personal feelings toward reaching the lost affect one’s desire to reach the lost. One’s attitude toward evangelism and outreach affects one’s opinion, and the kind of action taken toward the development of an outreach philosophy, especially as
it relates to the work-schedule of an ordained pastor. All Christians have the task of making disciples, but those set apart as pastors have a specific duty not only to make disciples, but also to train other Christians to make disciples.
This seminary course is about evangelism methods that help pastors reach the lost and train members to join the circle of the faithful to share the Gospel which leads to life eternal, with special reference to East Africa.
Scripture is filled with passages that emphasize the kind of attitude one should have toward evangelism and outreach.
2.We now consider Bible passages that help the evangelist understand the importance of beginning with the proper attitude:
1 John 4: 8 “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
What is important here that affects one’s attitude? In what way does love affect one’s attitude?
Mark 12: 31 “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
How does this passage help develop the right attitude toward outreach and church planting?
Romans 5: 6-8 “6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
What is the most important factor that affects the development of a good, sound Christian attitude toward evangelism and outreach? Why would someone want to become a Lutheran pastor and not want to incorporate
evangelism into the daily schedule?
Matthew 15: 19 “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.”
According to Matthew 15:19, the problem originates in the heart. How is it possible to change bad attitudes to good ones?
Romans 7: 19 “For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.”
What is the Scriptural answer for someone who says, “Everything I do is wrong, so why should I even try to develop a good positive attitude?”
Philippians 2: 5 “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.”
Why is this passage the heart and core of a Christian pastor? Explain.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE WORD EVANGELISM:
Definition of the term: Evangelism. The word “evangelist” comes from the Koine Greek ____ ____________________________ (euangelion). The Latin is Evangelium, and is used for the titles of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the Four Evangelists. The Greek word ______________________ meant a reward for good news given to the messenger. _____= good __________________ I bring a message.
The verb form of euangelion, euangelizo was used sparingly outside of the New Testament Greek, thus making its meaning more difficult to determine. The Greek verb kerusso, which means “to proclaim,” has a very close relationship with the verb euangelizo in Luke and in Mark.
Note also that the term Gospel, so often used, comes from an old English word, “Godspell.” The term Godspell means “good word.”
What command does Jesus give to His followers in regard to the “Godspell”? Matthew 28: 18-20 makes clear that the disciples were to go everywhere and make disciples, to baptize, to teach everything Jesus had commanded them to teach.
Whose task is it to evangelize? The task to share the Good News belongs to everyone who believes in Christ. This task is not given only to the clergy or only to men. The task to evangelize is given to every Christian.
A positive attitude willingly accepts the commands of Jesus which point out the need to share the Good News about Jesus with everyone. A poor attitude has little love or concern for sharing the Good News. Worldly possessions and pleasures often become more important than sharing the Good News, and consequently there is no urgency to share the Good News.
DISCUSSION
1. Why should we care about those who do not have faith?
2. Three reasons for getting involved:
a.Christ’s command b.Our need
c.Our neighbor’s need (1 Peter 2: 11-16)
3. What stereotypical attitudes prevent us from really getting involved in church planting?
4.How can a person develop a healthy, positive attitude toward evangelism and outreach?
ASSIGNMENT
Create an evangelism program for a Christian congregation that will measure up to Matthew 28.
Table of Contents
STEP 2:The Message
A missionary serving in Lebanon was asked to address a small Hezbollah group meeting in the mountains of Western Lebanon. The missionary was concerned about what to say to these very legalistic and fanatical people. When the time came to address about thirty men of this group, he was asked a question that took ninety minutes to answer. The question: From where do you get your inner peace? The missionary was given the opportunity to reveal the Christian message to a group of men who normally would not listen to such an answer.
What is the core of the Christian faith?
The message witnessed and shared is critical because of the great urgency connected to it, an urgency that cannot be replaced by material or earthly things. The object of sharing the Good News is the only reason for Evangelism and Church Planting. Jesus states the heart of evangelism in Matthew 28: “Go make disciples…teach them what I have given you.” The evangelism message brings comfort to all who are doomed to the fires of hell, guaranteeing the gift of eternal life by faith through Jesus Christ.
In Luke 10, Jesus made the message to be shared very clear. He visits the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha in the small village of Bethany. Jesus lovingly teaches all living in their house. Martha excuses herself to prepare food for their honored guest. Martha pleads with Jesus to tell Mary to assist with the preparation of the food for the meal. Mary sits at the feet of Jesus to listen and ponder on His precious teachings. “Martha, Martha,” Jesus replies, “Mary has chosen the better thing.” (Luke 10:42)
I Timothy 2: 3-6 reminds us that “God would have all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.”
If the lost are to come to know Christ and be saved, they must have faith. Faith comes from hearing about Christ (Romans 10). Christ has committed the message and the task to believers.
Holy Scriptures include many passages that contain and highlight the fundamental doctrine of saving faith.
A number of Bible truths which contain the chief message to be shared now follow:
I Corinthians 1: 23 “We preach Christ crucified.” What is the message of the evangelist?
John 3: 16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
What moved God to give His one and only Son to save sinners? What benefit does the Savior bring to the lost? Why is this passage the key to evangelism and outreach? Discuss.
II Corinthians 5: 18-20 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”
What important blessings did God give to His Church? What important teaching did God give to His servants here on
earth? What does the term reconcile mean? Why doesn’t God now count the Christian believer’s sin against him any more? What great work does God give the church? What are God’s workers called? What is the work of an ambassador? “God makes His appeal through His followers.” What does this work entail? How can sinners be reconciled to God?
Exodus 3: 10-12 10So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” 11But Moses said to God, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” 12And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.”
Why did Moses, an 80-year-old man, have difficulty understanding God’s call? How does God answer Moses’ weak faith? What assuring words did God give to Moses? How does this apply to evangelism we do today?
Exodus 20: 5-6 5You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.
What does God mean when He states, “I am a jealous God”? Explain. “God punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation.” How much love can God’s children expect?
2 Corinthians 4:5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.
What does “preaching ourselves” mean? What is the real message we are to preach?
2 Kings 7:1-9 Elisha said, “Hear the word of the LORD. This is what the LORD says: About this time tomorrow, a seah of flour will sell for a shekel and two seahs of barley for a shekel at the gate of Samaria.” 2The officer on whose arm the king was leaning said to the man of God, “Look, even if the LORD should open the floodgates of the heavens, could this happen?” “You will see it with your own eyes,” answered Elisha, “but you will not eat any of it!”
3Now there were four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, “Why stay here until we die? 4If we say, ‘We’ll go into the city’-the famine is there, and we will die. And if we stay here, we will die. So let’s go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.” 5At dusk they got up and went to the camp of the Arameans. When they reached the edge of the camp, not a man was there, 6for the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots and horses and a great army, so that they said to one another, “Look, the king of Israel has hired the Hittite and Egyptian kings to attack us!” 7So they got up and fled in the dusk and abandoned their tents and their horses and donkeys. They left the camp as it was and ran for their lives. 8The men who had leprosy reached the edge of the camp and entered one of the tents. They ate and drank, and carried away silver, gold and clothes, and went off and hid them. They returned and entered another tent and took some things from it and hid them also. 9Then they said to each other, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves. If we wait until daylight, punishment will overtake us. Let’s go at once and report this to the royal palace.”
What options were available for the four lepers? What moved the four lepers to tell others of the food supply available to them? In what way does this text apply to sharing the Good News with others?
The message contains Law and Gospel. It is essential that the Law and Gospel are clearly understood and that they are shared in the proper way. Proper distinction of the Law and the Gospel is critical to sharing the Good News properly.
Why is it important to understand Law and Gospel when sharing the Good News with the lost? The Law shows us our sin. The Gospel shows the sinner the Savior. Law is demanding and must be kept perfectly. One mistake, and it brings the fires of hell upon the sinner. The Gospel assures the sinner that He is forgiven through the atoning work of Christ, without any merit or goodness on the part of the sinner. Salvation is a gift through faith by God’s grace. If, for instance, someone says, “If you are good, Jesus will love you!”, this clearly is an untrue statement and mixes Law and Gospel. Again, should someone say, “If you try to please Jesus, He will never let you down.” Why is this also a false statement? The Law and the Gospel are not to be mixed. The Law and the Gospel should not be co-mingled and confused. The evangelist must be precise and clear in his preaching and sharing.
Ephesians 2: 8-9 clearly states, “For it is by grace that you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourself, it is a gift of God and not of works, lest any man boast.”
The gift of eternal life is a free gift and man’s works are totally excluded. Good works are a response to God’s eternal love and do not merit God’s favor. The message shared reminds sinners that good works follow faith, come from faith, are a result of faith, and, in fact, good works are the evidence of a life of faith.
DISCUSSION
1. Why is knowing the message so important in sharing the Gospel?
2. What are some common mistakes made in sharing the Good News?
3. When the Scriptures state, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ,” is this Law or Gospel? Explain. We find that it is not a command, but rather it conveys the loving grace made available in Christ our Lord.
4. Which do you share first, the Law or the Gospel? Discuss.
ASSIGNMENT
Write a paragraph describing the Christian message that must be shared with the lost.
STEP 3: The Christian’s Behavior in Outreach
A missionary evangelist was visiting a large market place in a large city of Nigeria, Africa. As he walked through the narrow, muddy paths of the busy market place, one man yelled out, “Go home to America, white man!” The missionary ignored the sharp attack by one man, as many of those who heard the attacking words publicly rebuked the man for his unreasonable attack. The crowd took care of the needed response.
Christian behavior is very important for reaching out into the cities and rural areas with the Gospel.
Is there such a thing as evangelism decorum? Yes, there is a right way and a wrong way in respect to an Evangelist’s behavior when sharing the Good News. Pride and vanity hurt effective sharing, and clearly are seen in subtle ways. Ways which hinder the Gospel presentation with the unreached. Proper evangelism décor includes accepting others as equals and not lifting one’s self above the life-style of the person with whom you are sharing the Gospel.
Any time evangelism is done, it must be done with a humble spirit in honest, Christian love. The key motive is to preach Christ, forgiveness of sin, and a free new life in Jesus, the world’s only Savior. Never aim at just one sin. If visiting with a thief, don’t just dwell on honesty and integrity.
It is important to be self-controlled at all times; do not lose your cool. There are times when the Evangelist may be truly riled and angered when sharing the Gospel with the unreached. There will be moments when he wants to respond in a spirit of anger, but losing one’s temper gives
a poor impression. Any behavior that inhibits or destroys a friendship that has been developed only closes doors which the Holy Spirit opens. The evangelist must refuse to be provoked and angered, and always strive to be logical and reasonable in his approach. Confidently knowing the subject of evangelism will help to witness a spirit of love and concern.
When witnessing the faith and you begin to sense or feel that you are not wanted, appreciated or perhaps even worse, you are becoming a nuisance, you had better rethink your approach as those involved are beginning to close the door to your presentation. The evangelist is not a policeman; he is a shepherd, a pastor. An evangelist’s task is to share and inform, not to enforce or make demands upon those he is visiting. The evangelist must earn the right to become personal. Until that right has been given, little progress will be made in sharing the Good News.
The life style of the evangelist is critical to effective sharing of the Good News. An evangelist who is found around alcohol, money, bad language (cursing and swearing) or sex will never be accepted. His lifestyle is very important and it is helpful and is necessary to avoid anything that will give offense to the person with whom you share the Gospel.
The evangelist should be dressed in clean clothes, a washed body, and properly cared for. It is not the cost of the clothing, but whether it is clean. Bad breath, unkempt hair, or smelly feet are not conducive to effective outreach.
Your personal love for God, His Son, and God’s rich grace will show in your presentation. Your honest love for Jesus and your interest in bringing the Good News will be obvious to your client. If you in any way fake a false enthusiasm, you have lost all. The evangelist is to be confident and eager to share the most thrilling story ever told.
We look at Bible passages which point out the evangelist’s behavior in sharing the Gospel:
I Corinthians 13: 4-7 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Name the important points regarding an evangelist’s behavior in I Corinthians 13:4-7.
Matthew 7:1-7 1”Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. 6Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.”
How does Matthew 7: 1-7 help the evangelist to be a better “ambassador” for the Gospel?
Matthew 18:15 15”If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.”
How do we apply Matthew 18:15 to effective Christian outreach?
Matthew 5:13-15 13”You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
A number of considerations are found in Matthew 5:1315 which point out important characteristics in using good principles in witnessing to the unreached. Discuss.
1 Peter 2:21 “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.”
Why is Christ’s example valuable in developing good outreach behavior?
DISCUSSION
1. How can we change “Oh what a beautiful day!” to a Christian witness?
2. Is well worn clothing a negative in sharing the Good News? Discuss.
3. Give several illustrations of correct behavior and incorrect behavior.
4. Why is understanding another kind of lifestyle important in sharing the Good News?
ASSIGNMENT
Make a list of do’s and don’ts of sharing the Good News.
Table of Contents
STEP 4: Learning to Understand the Unreached
A young Christian man had reached the top of the ladder as he had now reached all his goals in life. He held a great job, was happily married and had three children to love and care for. One day as he was studying for an advanced degree, he became deathly sick and was rushed to see a doctor. His appendix had ruptured and he would have died had not the doctor performed surgery on him. As he was recuperating in the hospital, he became aware of the many people who do not know Jesus as Lord and Savior. He resigned his position to study for the Holy Ministry so that he could help bring the Good News to the lost.
Who are the unreached? Where are the unreached? How can we effectively reach the unreached? What are some problems in reaching out to the unreached?
Rationale:
Anyone who does not personally confess Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior is considered unreached. The command Jesus gives is: “Go…make disciples of all nations.” This is no easy task. How do we find the unreached and what must be done to create a climate of understanding, trust, and love? The unreached do not come running to the one offering the free Gospel. The unreached must be discovered, and once discovered, the Gospel shared in a meaningful way.
As we take the Gospel out from Yambio to Juba, Malakal, Nuba Mountain, Uganda, Congo, Kenya and other countries, it is important to understand the cultural differences that often become barriers. Culture is the sum of distinctive
characteristics of a people’s way of behavior. It is the way that is learned to be the right way. All other ways are wrong.
For instance, Muslims see men and women meeting together as a sexual meeting and therefore a very bad thing to do. It is crucial that when entering a new or different community of people that cultural cues be observed. An evangelist must immerse himself in the new culture and begin as a baby does to observe and learn the do’s and the don’ts that become cultural laws for the society. We call these norms the rules of the community.
People learn to think in different ways. Some societies and groups of people are dichotomists, while others are holistic in their thinking. A dichotomist is one who sees things in two parts. If a person makes a mistake, that person is totally rejected. He sees life and its activities as particulars. A holistic thinking person sees life as a whole. One mistake is not serious because we all make mistakes. One mistake will not or should not keep a person barred from future activity.
Enculturation is a cross-cultural term that concerns itself with the process of learning. When entering a new area of evangelistic work, we should begin much as a child, learning the correct way of thinking about all of life.
It is important for the evangelist to make every effort “to be born anew” when entering new work. This is true for the same language group as well as new tribes where work is to begin.
I Corinthians 9: 22-23 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 23I do all this for the sake of the Gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
To avoid tension, confusion or conflict we must choose our responses carefully. The evangelist is usually on a tight daily time schedule. We are time conscious, having a watch on our wrist and a schedule to follow. Others do not live by a watch or the clock. We who are time-oriented must be careful when working with event-oriented cultures. At the seminary we are ruled by a clock. In the village we may not be ruled by a clock. Community events such as weddings, funerals, sporting events consume the interest of most and the clock matters little.
The unreached must be given every opportunity to hear the message of hope in a clear and relevant way. Recognizing cultural preferences helps the evangelist to effectively work with those who live and think differently than he does.
How is it possible to reach the lost with the Gospel? As an effective evangelist, let us search for every way possible to find methods that clearly speak the saving message of hope with the unreached.
We note a few activities among many:
1.Community activities. Lectures, movies, music sessions, drama, special speakers. Following Jesus’ example we normally reach the unreached best in a one-onone relationship. The personal contact is the best way to share the Gospel with the unreached.
2.Focus on issues. Health, employment, counseling, education, language, death, marriage, illness, failures that disappoint, planting, harvesting, building a house, etc.
3.Home visits. Evangelism visits at the family compound when food is prepared, eaten or digested! Some seasons are better than others for working with the local people. Often a rainy day is better than a warm day to make an evangelism visit in the rural jungle. In cities some days are better than
others to make visits. In the jungle, people are eventoriented while in the city people are more time-oriented. Table of Contents
CLASS DISCUSSION
1. Who are the unreached?
2. What is culture?
3. Why must the evangelist understand culture when sharing the Gospel?
4. Explain the terms dichotomy and holistic. Apply to outreach and evangelism.
5. Read Matthew 5: 13-14. Explain this concrete analogy.
6. Discuss: We must adapt to time and even the priorities of those with whom we work.
ASSIGNMENT
Develop an outreach plan that you think would work in the city of Juba.
Develop a cross-cultural community plan that lists differences that often cause division.
STEP 5: Sharing the Gospel
A missionary was called to serve in faraway Papua New Guinea. His task was to bring the Gospel to the lost in the high interior mountains of the Papua New Guinea Island. The missionary found other mission helpers to purchase a generator and film machine so that he could help educate the people of the land. One evening, when he was presenting a film show at a small community center, it began to rain and rain. The men refused to help carry the equipment down to the main road where his vehicle was parked. The missionary found women to help and on the way down to his vehicle, the missionary fell down a mountain and broke his spine. He had to be flown to the United States for spinal fusion. Yet he returned to serve in Papua New Guinea for another term.
Why is getting the message of hope to the lost so important?
The Gospel is the Good News that Christ has fulfilled the Law for sinners. By His death on the cross, He has freed sinners from God’s charge for sinners to be perfect, and has set them free. The Gospel shows God’s gracious love for sinners, namely, what He has done to give eternal life to sinners. It is the Good News that is preached to the troubled, broken-hearted, down-trodden, and lost. The task of sharing the Gospel is exciting, rewarding and gives countless blessings to those who evangelize. Those who witness the Gospel and then have it rejected become disappointed and sad when such a wonderful free gift is spurned.
Why does the Gospel need to be shared? The Gospel has the power to give faith in Christ, and therefore eternal life. Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he that believes
in Me has eternal life.” Those who have died in the past are already judged. Our God given task is for the present. The task to evangelize, given to believers, is a joyous task because God blesses the sharing of the Gospel.
What does the Gospel do for the unreached? The Gospel has the power to take a person from the fires of hell and brings that person into God’s heavenly mansions of eternal joy. It has the power to open hearts. All have sinned and fall short of God’s grace (Romans 3:23). Man cannot earn salvation, no matter how faithful he is or how hard he tries to merit heaven. The Gospel is a divinely revealed truth. God is moved by man’s needs and has prepared the only way for His salvation. God’s rich grace is the moving cause for sending His only Son to free sinners from the clutch of Satan, and bring each blood-bought soul to Christ.
The Gospel of God’s free grace offers the promise of salvation for all who believe. This wonderful truth distinguishes the Christian religion from all other religions in the world. This biblical truth stands for all time, from Adam to the end of this troubled world. Grace then, is more than God’s eternal goodness, for it specifically refers to God’s unmerited love for sinners. The addition of any manmade works to help, assist, or aid in man’s salvation destroys the meaning of being saved by grace. (Romans 11:6)
Some Bible passages which help to understand the need for sharing the Gospel:
Matthew 28:18-19 18Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…”
What does Jesus mean when He states, “go make disciples of
all nations…”? How does the Gospel help to make disciples?
Mark 16:15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.”
Mark 16 speaks of bringing the Gospel “to all creation.” What does “all creation” mean?
Luke 24:44-49 44He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” 45Then He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49I am going to send you what My Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
In Luke 24, we read, “Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me.” Explain.
John 20:21-23 21Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you.” 22And with that He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
What is significant in the words “Peace be with you!” What important evangelization point does Jesus make in John 20?
Acts 1:7-8 7He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Why was it unimportant for the disciples to “know the times and dates the Father had set”? What special power is referred to in Acts 1?
2 Corinthians 5:19 19that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.
To whom has God committed the message of reconciliation? The command that God gives His children is to believe the Gospel and to share the Gospel. God has worked faith in the hearts of sinners, a faith that accepts the Gospel. As the Gospel is shared, some hear and accept, others hear and reject. We are not to be dismayed or dejected when this happens, because after doing our duty in sharing the Gospel, we know that some may reject the Gospel and its blessings and promises. The Bible assures us that God’s grace works in the sinner’s heart, but because of the Old Adam, some reject the Gospel.
As powerful, exciting, and meaningful as the Gospel is, many Christians fear and even dread the task of publicly evangelizing and sharing this Good News!
Some Christians need ideas and helps to actually share the Good News. Some pastors fear and tremble at the thought of visiting compounds, or taking the time to clearly share the Good News with the lost! Maybe you have questions on how one properly can share the Gospel with someone who has never heard about Jesus. Numerous examples of how to share the Gospel can be found.
Good news is something all humans experience from time to time. In this world of ours there are many different ways that we experience good times. For instance, the birth of a new baby, the success of a business, and overcoming a sickness all bring happiness. These events are happy times
and we do not need someone to come and help us share the good news. It is natural to share in a spontaneous way. So it is with the blessed Gospel. The Gospel is such a blessed and wonderful truth that we who believe cannot help but bring this Good News to other people.
It has been found that when an evangelist goes out into the world with the Gospel, he feels better and more confident when he has a format memorized to follow in his presentation.
ONE METHOD USED FOR SHARING THE GOSPEL
You meet, you become acquainted, you earn the right to ask a personal question. After a good relationship has been established, the evangelist may begin with a personal question or two. Several questions that may be asked: (1) If you died right now, this very moment, would you go to heaven? Discuss. (2) And if God were to ask you, “Why should I permit you to enter heaven?” How would you answer God?Discuss.
Then, even if the person you are in conversation with has the right answers you discuss the following guideline: (My friend, I have very good news for YOU!!)
I.Grace
1.Heaven is a free gift
2.It is not earned or deserved Titus 3:8
II.Man
1.Is a damned sinner
2.Has no inner power to save himself.
III.God
1. Is merciful….doesn’t want to punish sinners 2.Is just… But must punish sin
IV.Christ
1.Who Christ is…true God-Man
2.What Christ did… atoned for all sin with his death. 3.Offers us forgiveness
V.Faith (illustrate for hearer)
1.What faith isn’t (knowledge, temporal)
2.What faith really is (trusting Jesus for salvation alone
VI.Closing
1.Closing passage (I Timothy 2:3-6). God wants all to be saved.
2.If we confess our sins…He is faithful and just. (I John 1:9)
3.Close with prayer and invitation
4.Set date for next visit
Sometimes a number of people are willing to meet as a group. This is beneficial for class members and saves the evangelist/pastor much time.
ANOTHER METHOD OF SHARING THE GOSPEL (The 4-D
Method)
Key terms for the outline:
1.Dilemma
2.Deliverance
3.Destiny
4.Delight
The great dilemma all of us face is the dilemma of sin.
“There is no difference, for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
“The wages of sin is death.” (Romans 6:23a)
“There is none righteous, not even one. There is none who understands, there is none who seeks for God; all have turned aside, together they have become useless; there is none who does good, there is not even one.” (Romans 3:10-12)
God is just and must punish sin. “He will by no means clear the guilty.” (Exodus 34:7) “The soul that sinneth it shall die.” (Ezekiel 18:4)
The Bible says that our lot is loss, as a result of sin. Bible refers to punishment in the fires of hell. It is described as a lake of fire. “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into a lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15)
It says further that it is a place of weeping and wailing. “He will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 13:42) It is a place of sorrow, a place of punishment.
This is God’s description, not the church’s, not the pastor’s. It is a real dilemma that touches each and every one of us.
But God is merciful and doesn’t want to punish us. “As I live, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked but that the wicked turn from his way and live.” (Ezekiel 18:32) Further, “God desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4)
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in loving kindness.” (Psalm 103:8)
“Let the wicked turn from his way and return to the Lord for mercy and abundant pardon.” (Isaiah 55:7)
DELIVERANCE BY HIS SON
The ransom price has been paid, enabling us to come home. Our sin was not overlooked, but it was covered by the blood of Jesus on the cross of Calvary. A ransom was paid in a hostile hostage situation.
“The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
“It was the Father’s good pleasure to reconcile all things to
Himself, having made peace through His blood of the cross.” (Colossians 1:19, 20)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
What a price! What a deliverance! “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)
What then? Is that it? What does this mean? Those are the facts that speak for themselves from the Bible. That is God’s plan for all. It means
WE HAVE A DESTINY
Our DESTINY is heaven. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2: 8, 9)
When the Philippian jailer asked the important question “What must I do to be saved?” Paul answered: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” (Acts 6: 30, 31)
Other religions are a religion of works. Ours is a religion of faith. We can do nothing. As the hymn writer states: “Simply to Thy cross I cling.”
OUR DELIGHT
Our DELIGHT will result in joyful service to our Savior. The result of this ransom that has been paid is joyful service and worship.
“For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:13)
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.”
(1 Corinthians 15:58)
“Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” (Colossians 2: 6-7)
DILEMMA – DELIVERANCE – DESTINY – DELIGHT
(Dr. Robert L. Rahn)
DISCUSSION
1. Give examples of co-mingling Law and Gospel.
2. How do the Law and Gospel differ? How are they the same?
3. How might a learned process for sharing the Gospel be of some help?
4. What examples can you find that add human works to God’s saving grace?
5. Why is it important to know Law and Gospel in presenting the Gospel?
ASSIGNMENT
What reasons can you give as to why some people neglect the sharing of the Gospel?
STEP 6: The Teaching of the Holy Trinity
A missionary was sent to tell the Good News about Jesus to the lost. The people were illiterate and had never heard about God. An old man asked the missionary who made that “big tree” over there, pointing to an old gnarled tree. God made that tree long ago. “Who is God,” they asked. He told them there is only one God. This One God consists of three Persons: the Father, who made the world; the Son of the Father, who was sent by the Father to die for sinners; and the Holy Spirit, who creates and sustains faith in lost sinners.
How would you explain the Holy Trinity to someone who is illiterate and unreached?
Evangelism is the sharing of Good News. It is the task of telling others about the love of a wonderful God. Many religions in this world speak of a god. The Muslims refer to Allah, the American Natives refer to a Great Spirit, the Enga of New Guinea speak of Annasu. Christians believe and trust in the one, true, Triune God.
The Triune God is a God of one essence. Essence is defined as the basic substance of something. The Holy Bible is clear that there is one God. We believe and we worship one God. “If God be for us, who can be against us?” Christians then turn to God for help and for their salvation. John 17:3 says, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” He is the only true God!
The Athansian Creed speaks of the undivided and indivisible Essence of God as three distinct Persons (Person here
meaning an essence or something that subsists all by itself). The teaching of the Holy Trinity is not restricted to the New Testament, but is also taught in the Old Testament. Isaiah 48:16 states, “Come near Me and listen to this: ‘From the first announcement I have not spoken in secret; at the time it happens, I am there.’ And now the Sovereign LORD has sent me, with His Spirit.” At creation, God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” (Genesis 1: 26)
From the baptism of Jesus and the Great Commission, we find three distinct Persons who are God. Yet, we worship not three gods, but one God.
The Father is God. Jesus says, “He gave His only Son.” (John 3:16) Apostle Paul writes, “yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” ( I Corinthians 8:6)
As the creeds teach on the basis of the Holy Scriptures, the Father, unbegotten, begat the Son from eternity. The Father, together with the Son, Scripture teaches, spirates (sends forth) the Holy Spirit from eternity. As John 15:26 states, “When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me.”
The Son, Jesus Christ, is true God. “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us under-standing, so that we may know Him who is true. And we are in Him who is true—even in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.” (I John 5:20). Jesus is not just similar to the Father, but as the creeds state, He is co-equal, as John 5:23 states: “that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent Him.”
The Son is distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit. He is “begotten” from the Father from eternity and together with the Father sends forth the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is true God. Christians are called the temple of God because the Holy Spirit lives in them. “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you?” (I Corinthians 3:16) The Holy Spirit is distinct from the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit did not beget, nor was He begotten, but proceeds from the Father and the Son. The Bible teaches this eternal generation of the Father and the Son and the eternal spiration of the Holy Spirit by the Father and the Son. These truths are beyond human comprehension and remain a great mystery to us.
So then, the Father is God, the Son is God and the Holy Spirit is God. On the basis of God’s Word, the creeds explain that there are not three gods, but one God. There are not three parts or divisions, but one whole, One True God. God is incomprehensible. It is vain and foolish for man to dig deeper into the mystery of God than what has been revealed to us in the Bible.
Biblical support for the teaching of the Holy Trinity:
Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.”
This is a very important and essential Bible passage that clearly speaks of God as one God.
Galatians 4:4-5 “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.”
Galatians supports a Father-Son relationship. The Son’s Incarnation is also included here.
1 Corinthians 12:3 Therefore I tell you that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit.”
The power of the Holy Spirit is stated here. It is only through the power of the Spirit that a person can come to faith.
Matthew 17:5 While He was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!
Matthew speaks clearly of a Father-Son relationship.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
What significant truths does Genesis here offer regarding the Holy Trinity?
DISCUSSION
1. Why is the doctrine of the Holy Trinity difficult to explain?
2. What does the term “Person” mean when we speak of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as Persons?
3. How important is it for the evangelist to teach about the doctrine of the Trinity?
4. Prove from the Bible that the Holy Trinity exists.
ASSIGNMENT
Tell how you will explain the doctrine of the Trinity to potential converts.
Table of Contents
STEP 7: The Life of Jesus
An evangelist was called to bring the Good News to the people of New Guinea. A rich leader lived in the area to which this Evangelist was sent. He refused Jesus and Holy Baptism. He had many wives and much power. One night God sent a freeze that destroyed all the gardens, and the sweet potato plants turned to mush. The evangelist needed the help of this leader and his clan to work on the roads so that rice and fish could be brought to starving people. The two of them worked closely for one year. This strong, illustrious and distinguished leader began to study the Bible. Soon he wanted to be baptized and become a member of the Lutheran church in his area.
What do you think helped make this leader become a soldier of the cross?
God’s Son’s name is Jesus. Jesus is His personal name, and His name means “Savior.” Christ is Jesus’ official name. Christ is the Greek for the Hebrew Messiah. Messiah means “the Annointed.” Christ is true God and true Man. Denial that Jesus is true God is a serious matter. Such a denial excludes a person from heaven. From His conception, Jesus was and is and ever will be true God.
Jesus was a true human being, born of the Virgin Mary. He was true man with real human flesh. Jesus had human ancestors, and is referred to as the son of David. He was a real human being born of a human mother but was not begotten by a human father. Jesus was sinless and He did not inherit the depravity which all people are born with and require a savior to atone for their sins. He who knew no sin was made to be sin for us. Jesus was sinless and did not
have to die. (John 10:18) At no time did the human nature of Jesus exist for itself. Jesus’ two natures, Son of God and Son of Man, were not as one new person, but the eternal Person who assumed human nature as the Son of God. Jesus is one person, but has a complete divine nature and a complete human nature. Colossians 2:9 states, “In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”
To satisfy God’s demands for perfect holiness it was necessary that the Law be fulfilled. Man was unable to do this; only Christ could do this. To satisfy the demands of God’s justice it was necessary that full atonement be made for the sins of man by suffering the penalty. “The wages of sin is death.” (Rom 6:23)
The amazing truth is that God in Christ fulfilled the law by His suffering and dying for our sins. This wonderful truth gives infinite value and saving power to the work of our Redeemer. It was God Himself who reconciled the world to Himself through Jesus, and thus we now know for certain that we have truly been redeemed and reconciled to God.
The Promise
Genesis 3:15 “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel.”
Why is this passage so very important to share in our evangelism efforts?
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.
What significant truths does Isaiah present, hundreds of years before Christ the Savior was born?
The Incarnation
Luke 2: 7 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Why is the Incarnation of Christ so important?
The Early Life
Luke 2:22 When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took Him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.
What significance is the rite of purification? What does this tell us about Joseph and Mary’s faith?
Luke 2:42 “When he was twelve years old, they went up to the Feast, according to the custom.”
What was the family custom for Mary and Joseph?
The Public Ministry
John 18:36-37 36Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is from another place.” 37“You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to Me.”
Why wasn’t Jesus’ ministry of this world? Was Jesus a King? What is important about the last sentence of John 18 passage: “Everyone on the side of truth listens to Me”?
Suffering and Death
2 Corinthians 8:9 For you know the grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.
How might 2 Corinthians be helpful in sharing the Gospel with the lost?
John 19:1-3 1Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. 2The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head. They clothed Him in a purple robe 3and went up to Him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they struck Him in the face.
What is the important truth to be learned from John 19?
John 19:30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.”
Why is this passage from John 19 so very important in helping to bring the lost to saving faith?
I Peter 4:6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.”
Christ did not descend into hell only in His divine nature, but also with his human nature. He preached judgment and damnation to those in hell. He did not preach the Gospel to those in hell. Christ did not descend into hell to liberate anyone, but to share the victory over sin, death and Satan.
Though seemingly unimportant, this I Peter passage is very important. Discuss.
The Resurrection of Jesus
Acts 10:40-41 “40but God raised Him from the dead on the third day and caused Him to be seen. 41He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead.”
Why is the resurrection of Jesus so important for the Christian faith?
I Corinthians 15: 4-8 that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that He appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. 6After that, He appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8and last of all He appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
This passage from I Corinthians is helpful for new Christians. Discuss.
The Ascension
Luke 24:51 While He was blessing them, He left them and was taken up into heaven.
Why is the ascension of Jesus into heaven physically so important to our Christian faith?
Acts 1:9 After He said this, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight.
What happened right before the eyes of Jesus’ followers?
Mark 16:19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up into heaven and He sat at the right hand of God.
To sit at the right hand of God means to have a position of supreme power and dominion. God setting His Son at
His own right hand was a great honor. The divine nature of Christ was always at the right hand of God, but now His human nature fully participates in this honor, authority and dominion.
Explain Mark 16. What does “right hand of God” mean?
DISCUSSION
1. Why is Christ’s resurrection so important? Comforting?
2. What passages describe Jesus’ descent into hell?
3. How does the work of redemption benefit you?
4. List all of Jesus’ names and their meaning.
5. What are Christ’s two natures? Explain.
ASSIGNMENT
Write a paragraph explaining active and passive obedience of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Table of Contents
STEP 8: The Holy Bible
An evangelist walked the streets of Beirut looking for ways to share the Gospel with the Muslim. A young nursing student came to the Evangelist and asked him to explain the Holy Bible. This young man asked for a Bible and was giving a large Bible. Soon the man returned to the evangelist pleading for a smaller Bible because his father, a radical Shi’a Muslim had burned his large Bible. The two of them studied the Bible. When the evangelist was leaving Beirut the young man tearfully told the evangelist, “ I have Christ in my heart and will never let Him go!”
Although the young man had no Christian congregation to worship in, he daily read and studied God’s Word. Where does the Holy Bible get its power?
All Christian doctrine must be based on the Word of God. The Lutheran Confessions teach: “We believe, teach and confess that the sole rule and standard according to which all dogmas together with all teachers should be estimated and judged are the prophetic and apostolic Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments alone.”
To be an effective evangelist, it is necessary to read, study, memorize and meditate upon God’s holy Word. Sometimes when the Bible is used in outreach, it is inhibiting and problematic for those we visit. When Scriptures and Christian teachings are quoted from the heart such a witness often means more than if the evangelist only reads from the Bible.
We must use knowledge of language and grammar to discover the sense and meaning of God’s Word. It is the Word that judges and is the norm and rule, not man’s idea
or reason. When the Word of God speaks the right of private judgment is excluded. An important principle is: Sensus literalis unus est. A Scripture passage has but one intended sense or meaning.
When making an evangelism call the evangelist first earns the right to ask personal questions. When the evangelist begins with the Word of God before becoming acquainted, chances of forming a warm and personal relationship often cease. The evangelist skillfully and meaningfully weaves the Word of God into the conversation after he becomes acquainted with those he is visiting (in other words, after the evangelist has developed a trusting relationship with those he is visiting).
The Bible has one author, God. II Timothy 3:16 reads “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” The Holy Spirit gave Bible writers the insights and thoughts to write, as He inspired and controlled what they wrote.
The power of the Word, when shared, is very great. Romans 1:16-17 states, “16I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’”
Learning how to share the Word with the unreached is very important for effective outreach. It is important to trust the Word of God. The evangelist is God’s ambassador. The evangelist merely shares the Law and Gospel, the Word of God. When shared, the Holy Spirit uses the Word to change hearts and minds of those who hear the Word.
The Bible was verbally inspired by the power of the Holy
Spirit. The Bible tells us this is true and the Evangelist bases his Gospel presentation on this miraculous truth. This truth helps the evangelist because he now believes for certain that the Word is to be trusted as the very words from the mouth of God.
II Peter 1:21 states “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” The Word of God is efficacious, that is, has the power to produce saving faith. Sincerity and love for the Word have nothing to do with proving that the Bible is a true book or its doctrines are correct. The Bible is authentic, real and inerrant.
The books of the Bible have been accepted by the Christian church on the basis of many factors. The following questions are asked to help verify that the books of the Bible are valid for inclusion:
1.Is it authoritative?
2.Is it prophetic?
3.Is it authentic?
4.Is it dynamic? (life transforming)
5.Was it received and used when first written?
The Holy Bible was given to show sinners the road to eternal life. The evangelist must know the Word of God, believe the Word of God, trust the Word of God and live by the Word of God.
John 8: 31-32 Jesus said, “If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
The Word of God has been given to show Christ’s saving work in order to save lost sinners.
Romans 5:8-9 8But God demonstrates His own love for us
in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through Him!
God’s love and compassion moved Him to restore lost sinners to Himself.
II Timothy 3:15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
The Bible is able to make sinners wise unto salvation, which is in Christ Jesus.
DISCUSSION
1. What five principles are used to help include early Christian writings in the Canon?
2. What determines whether or not a writing is from God?
3. Why are the Jehovah’s Witness and Mormon writings blasphemous?
4. Discuss the topic “verbal inspiration.”
5. What is the difference between a paraphrase Bible and a translation Bible?
ASSIGNMENT
Find passages from the Old and New Testament that explain “Man is saved by God’s rich grace.”
STEP 9: Bible Study and Prayer
An evangelist was sent to serve in Papua New Guinea. The evangelist preached and taught the Word of God to those living in the area. One man came to Bible study each week. He asked many questions each time he came even though he was unable to read or write. He loved the Good News about Jesus. When the class sessions ended this man had to make a decision. He was married to six women. Was he willing to leave five of them and become monogamous with his first wife? “Yes,” he responded,” I am willing to give up my old ways for Jesus, my new life!”
How did Bible study and prayer help this man make a difficult decision?
PART ONE: THE IMPORTANCE OF BIBLE STUDY
The Word of God is efficacious. It has the power to create saving faith and promise eternal life. The study, meditation and continual use of God’s Word is commanded and is sorely needed. It brings rich spiritual blessings upon all who ponder and meditate upon God’s faith giving and faith increasing Word. The Evangelist is in need of new strength each day. He often fails and has many weaknesses that need God’s help. Prayers consist of memorized prayer and prayers that spontaneously come from his heart and his lips to God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (ex corde)
The Christian Church bases it life and spiritual health upon the use of God’s Holy Word. Many Christians postpone, delay and often neglect the use of God’s Word. Many hear the Word on Sunday in public worship but spend little or
no time reading, marking and meditating upon His Word. Some who attend worship are illiterate. Some do not know the language the evangelist is using. Proper hearing and understanding of the Word is critical in bringing the Gospel to such people.
It is required that a pastor effectively preach the Gospel, and that he be an able reader and speaker of the Good News. As a public servant of the Lord, an evangelist must enjoy not only reading God’s Word, but memorizing God’s Word as well. It is important to publicly hear and meditate upon God’s Word. It is also important for the evangelist to personally study the Word of God, not merely to prepare for a sermon or a Bible study class. If a Christian is to evangelize, he must love the Word and share it in a way that reflects such love for the Word.
An evangelist will work hard to find ways to reflect his joy for sharing the inerrant Word. This all begins with prayer and Bible study. He will daily seek spiritual strength for helping him through the challenges that will arise during the coming hours. He thoughtfully ends each day with a prayer of thanksgiving and seeks God’s help for all who have special needs.
Bible study is not a hit-and-miss activity, but an activity that must take priority over all other matters, except for emergencies, such as injury, harm to others and death. The evangelist faithfully sets time in his daily schedule for meaningful Bible study.
The purpose of Bible study is to grow stronger in the Christian faith. To be armed with the authority of the Word is the best weapon an evangelist can possess. Strategy is better than energy. Running all over the jungles to reach the lost can result in discouragement and failure. Through meaningful Bible study, the evangelist will develop a well
thought out mission strategy and God will bless the outreach result so that it will give glory to Him!
Romans 10 reminds us that faith comes from hearing the Word. Without faith there is no hope for an eternal life with Christ in heaven. Armed with a strong faith, the evangelist is committed to the task of evangelism and ready to share the Good News. Trusting the Word, the evangelist becomes an aggressive ambassador for the Lord Jesus Christ.
The power of God’s Word convicts, converts and controls the new convert. The evangelist doesn’t convert; the Holy Spirit, by the power of the Word, regenerates and renews the hearts and lives of lost sinners. Soul winning is done where sinners are, not always in a tin-roofed worship center, but in gardens, places of work, and the market place.
PART TWO: THE IMPORTANCE FOR PRAYER
The importance of prayer in doing the work of an evangelist cannot be overstated or overused. Prayer is an important part of a believer’s life. A Christian evangelist needs to speak to God. Prayer includes words spoken or sung, thoughts, meditations and personal concerns of the heart. Psalm 19:14 states, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Ephesians 6:18 states, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:18 reminds Christians to be praying in the Spirit always, bring your supplications to Him.
Prayer includes giving God thanks and praise for His gifts and goodness. In prayer we ask God for special gifts and blessings. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4: 6)
Prayer is a learned habit and can never be perfectly mastered here on this earth. As a Christian grows and matures in the faith, he realizes the importance of conversing with God in the good times and the bad. When prayer becomes a part of a person’s lifestyle, it becomes more valuable. Prayer is included in public worship and is a blessing for group worshipping. Prayer is also a personal and an individual act that takes on great significance.
Also, pastors note that prayer between husband and wife is valuable and a rich blessing. When a married couple uses prayer daily it becomes more valuable than gold.
Prayer is one of the Christian’s special weapons to deal in his struggle with the devil, the world and his flesh. Prayer changes things. Prayer opens doors. Prayer helps the evangelist get into the life and heart of those he serves and those he witnesses to.
A Christian prays because he knows and believes that God hears and answers prayer for Christ’s sake. With such faith, the evangelist is strengthened and encouraged to speak to God and seek His blessings for a successful sharing of the Gospel, as well as an open door to share God’s love and peace with those living in darkness. In John 16:23 we read, “In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. I tell you the truth, My Father will give you whatever you ask in My name.” A Christian asks for needs in the name of Jesus. Without Jesus and His atoning work, we dare not speak to God, the Father.
Prayer is to be addressed to the Holy Trinity, either the Father, the Son or the Holy Spirit. No prayer is to be addressed to the Virgin Mary, saints or some other god such as the Muslim’s Allah. Such prayers are worthless and bring God’s wrath upon those who pray in this way.
Jesus commands His followers, “Pick up your cross, and
come follow Me!” Those who evangelize do well when they thoughtfully and joyfully pick up their cross and follow Jesus’ example. When Jesus faced a difficult challenge, He is found on His knees in prayer. His High Priestly prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane is an example of deep and painful prayer. His suffering was so great that His sweat was as droplets of blood! All of this tension and pain was brought about to reconcile sinners to His Father. All of Christ’s suffering was endured because of His love for the lost. Evangelists will do well to follow Jesus’ example.
The power of prayer is astonishing and brings God’s blessings to us in many ways. Believers are reminded again and again to ask, seek and knock at the heart of Jesus. Ask and you will receive, says our sovereign Lord. The reason many evangelists do not pray is lack of faith. Some say they do not have time to pray. Some simply forget to pray, while others pray in a way that is not proper or acceptable to God.
God answers prayer in His own good time, and in His own good way. Paul prayed for help, again and again, but God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you; for My strength is made perfect in your weaknesses.” (II Corinthians 12:9) Prayer is not a means of grace, such as Holy Baptism and the blessed Eucharist. The purpose of grace is to empower the believer to ask for God’s rich grace, which He grants through the blessed sacraments. Prayer is an act and work of man seeking God’s guidance and help.
DISCUSSION
1. Why is God’s Word so powerful?
2. Why do Christians hesitate to study the Word of God?
3. In what way could prayer become a work of man and result in God’s judgment?
4. Why does armchair evangelism bring no results?
5. How should the evangelist teach new converts to pray?
ASSIGNMENT
Write two paragraphs, one on the importance of Bible study and one on the importance of prayer.
STEP 10: Creating a Worshiping Community
An evangelist was called to serve in Nigeria, Africa. He decided to conduct evangelism crusades throughout the country. He asked himself, “How can I bring the Good News to the people of Nigeria?” He found people who purchased a projector, generator and a film, “Jesus”. He spent weekends traveling, doing Bible study, handing out Bibles and praying with people in many languages. He was able to show the “Jesus” film, based on Luke, to 85,000 people. On one visit the evangelist baptized 67 men, women and children. A new Lutheran congregation of believers was created.
In what way has the power of Jesus affected your life?
Jesus commands His followers to make disciples, and to teach others what He has taught us in the Holy Bible. The object of evangelism is to reach out into the community to tell those without faith about Jesus, the world’s only Savior (Matthew 28:18-20).
Church planting is the result of effective evangelism. Effective evangelism is proper use of God’s Word and the Sacraments. This includes using proper motivation, message and method.
The evangelist’s task is to be out among the people in the public market place. The Holy Spirit will open doors for the evangelist to meet and share the Gospel with many people. He will share with those who know Jesus as Savior, commend them for their faithfulness, and will share the Gospel with those who still remain unreached and unsaved.
A one-on-one sharing or sharing with a small group visit are ways one may reach those who are not Christian. The evangelist avoids shouting matches and arguing and instead creates positive ways to make the Good News interesting and effective.
The evangelist also uses evangelism crusades, conventions, seminars, radio programs, movies and popular guest speakers to bring people of the community together. Mass meetings should be scheduled at the convenience of the local people and not the best time for the evangelist. In most developing countries, mass gatherings are popular and the local people enjoy crusades with special music, speakers, prayer and sermons.
Because there is often a lack of gifted church leaders, it is important to create special leadership classes consisting of both men and women. The evangelist normally has a number of communities to visit weekly and it becomes a problem to train and equip community leaders for effective leadership. These classes of gifted leaders will be taught and equipped for sharing and leading the new spiritual community. After a short but thorough training, these leaders are now able to reach many in the new community and bring them to the public worship meetings.
After a leadership class has completed the sessions, the best leaders can be used to help in the worship and the evangelization of other communities following the same model.
As the congregation grows, a meeting place will be needed to bring the group together. At first the shade of a large tree is very acceptable, but in time a more permanent place will be required. The local grade school buildings are good places to meet. In some cases, a grass-roofed building with open sides is also very agreeable and an excellent place to
hold worship, Bible study and training sessions. In time, a more permanent building in which to worship will be helpful, and a pastor’s house may be necessary to find.
Money will always be needed to build educational facilities, for some important learning articles (such as Bibles, catechisms, booklets), and for providing the bread and wine for the Lord’s Supper. In a new area the evangelist must be aware of each need when planning and preparing for the development of a new congregation.
From the very beginning, the evangelist must develop and introduce God-pleasing leadership in a new congregation. Women may not serve as a worship leader or an elder. Women are encouraged to lead other women’s Bible study groups, work with children and youth, and demonstrate how to use home devotions around the cooking fire as food is prepared. Women often outnumber the men in a developing Christian community. Therefore, it is imperative to train and use women as well as men in helping to begin a new Christian congregation. New paradigms should be found to incorporate the men into the worship community.
The evangelist will evaluate development and progress often. On the basis of attendance, population, and the need for a Lutheran church, he will make reasonable plans for the future. The planning is to be done with the help of local members so that the community is an integral part of the planning process.
The new Lutheran group of believers should be led to answer the question: What is God’s purpose for this Christian body in this community?
Where possible, all men who become involved in preaching on Sunday should meet during the week to work through all Bible lessons, receive homiletic materials and helps, and
receive a Bible study on the next Sunday’s pericopes. These sessions will continue the training program and development for congregational leaders.
Christian stewardship education begins from the very first Sunday when worship meetings begin. Christian stewardship is a response to God’s love. This must be encouraged, not demanded (II Corinthians 8 and 9). Developing a God-pleasing stewardship program is biblical. Everything belongs to God; we return a token to Him each week.
How to expand the worshiping community will soon become an agenda item. Usually deeper in the rural areas, we find people to be evangelized. The joy of reaching deeper and farther into the local communities is exciting and challenging. It is by no means easy, but God has given His church the task to reach out with the Gospel.
When planting a new church, the evangelist considers baptisms, confirmations, funerals, weddings, and counseling sessions. The pastor must be wary of overwork and discouragement. It is important to train and develop leaders again and again. Some leaders will die, some will run away, some will quit the work, some will join another church group. Regular church leader training sessions should be held each year at a minimum, even if the leaders do not change. Training and equipping the saints is a Bible challenge and the education will be a great blessing for church growth (Ephesians 4).
There is a need to help choose a core of leaders to help meet the needs of the new church. There leaders may be elected by simple majority and positions filled on the basis of need. The sooner this is done, the faster the new church will grow into a healthy Christian group.
The evangelist will need to educate the new congregation on its relationship to all other congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sudan, or whatever Christian body the evangelist is associated with. This is important so that the new congregation and its members understand all duties, privileges and responsibilities. In this way, their walking together will truly be a blessing for the new congregations and the church body.
DISCUSSION
1. What are the necessary steps in planting a new church?
2. How can an evangelist find new members?
3. Should an evangelist take members from other Christian churches?
4. When should a new church building be constructed?
5. Why is Christian stewardship difficult to teach?
6. Motivation, message and method are the chief ingredients required for reaching multitudes. Give six reasons for Christians to share the Good News.
ASSIGNMENT
Develop a plan that you think would be just right for beginning a Lutheran church in a local community.
THE FINAL EXAMINATION
Using the ten steps reviewed, explain how you would incorporate each step in evangelizing a new non-Christian community.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE IN AFRICA:
Bibles in the local language
English language Bible
Book of Concord in local language
Luther’s Small Catechism in local language
Tracts in local language
Devotion books in local language (make your own)
Commentaries
Use of DVDs, video, electronic devices where available
OTHER ACTIVITIES AND NOTES:
Plan seminars for:
Men
Women
Youth
All ages, men and women
Invite speakers
Literacy workshops
Health seminars
Economic seminars (help develop businesses)
PRINTED
Adams, Arthur M. Effective Leadership for Today’s Church. Westminster Press. Philadelphia, PA. 1978
Allen, Roland. The Spontaneous Expansion of the Church. William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, MI.1962.
Missionary Methods: Paul’s or Ours?
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William B Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, MI. 1962.
Beyerhaus, Peter & Lefever, Henry. The Responsible Church and the Foreign Mission. Grand Rapids, MI.
William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. 1964
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. SCM Press. London. 1937.
Dayton, Edward & Fraser, David A. Planning Strategies for World Evangelization. William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. 1980.
Bible, The Holy New International Version. Zondervan Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, MI. 1973.
Callahan, Kennon L. Twelve Ways to an Effective Church. Harper & Row Publishers. New York, NY. 1983.
Cragg, Kenneth The Call of the Minaret. Orbis Books. Mayknoll, NY. 1992.
Ehlke, Roland Cap. Speaking the Truth in Love. Northwestern Publishing House. Milwaukee, WI. 2004.
Feucht, Oscar. Everyone a Minister. Concordia Publishing House. St. Louis, MO. 1986.
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Hopler, Thom. A World of Difference. Inter-Varsity Press. Downers Grove, IL. 1981.
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Johnson, John F. Witness & Worship in a Pluralistic America. Concordia Publishing House. St. Louis, MO. 2003.
Kane, Herbert J. Understanding Christian Mission. 4th Ed. Baker Book House. Grand Rapids, MI. 1986.
Wanted: World Churches. Baker Book House. Grand Rapids, MI. 1986
Kennedy, James D. Evangelism Explosion. Tyndale House. Wheaton, IL. 1977.
Klug, Eugene. Church and Ministry. Concordia Publishing House. St. Louis, MO. 1993.
Imberg, Josef. Christian Life. Stifttelsen Evangelisk Litteralurmission. Gothenberg, Sweden. 1995.
Lee, Harris. Effective Church Leadership. Augsburg. Minneapolis, MN. 1989.
Lingenfetter, Sherwood & Mayers, Marvin K. Ministering Cross-culturally. Baker Book House. Grand Rapids, MI. 1986.
Little, Paul E. Know Why You Believe. Inter-Varsity Press. Downers Grove, IL. 1976.
Lutz, Bernhard. Here Am I Lord: A Woman in Your Church. Dateline Printers. Lagos, Nigeria. 1996.
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Guidelines For Sharing Your Faith With Your Muslim Friends. Lutheran Heritage Foundation.: Macomb, MI. 2008.
Mayer, F.E. The Religious Bodies of America. St. Louis, MO.: Concordia Publishing House. 1956.
Merino, Larry C. & Burger, Jeanne. Everyone a Missionary. Precedent Press. Indianapolis, IN. 2007.
McGovran, Donald. Understanding Church Growth. William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, MI. 1980.
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Effective Evangelism: A Theological Mandate. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. Phillipsberg, NJ. 1988.
Newbigin, Lesslie. Foolishness to the Greeks. William B.Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, MI. 1986.
Parshall, Phil. New Paths in Muslim Evangelism. Grand Rapids, MI. Baker Book House. 1980.
Stott, John R. Christian Mission in the Modern World. Inter-Varsity Press. Downer’s Grove, IL. 1975.
Veith, Gene. The Spirituality and the Cross. Concordia Publishing House. St. Louis, MO. 1999.
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Postmodern Times. Crossways Books. Wheaton, IL. 1994.
Winter, Ralph & Hawthorne, Steven C. Perspectives on the World Christian Movement. William Carey Library Press. Pasadena, CA, 1981.
Woodberry, J .Dudley. Muslims & Christians on the Emmaus Road. MARC. Monrovia, CA. 1989.
ADD YOUR OWN RESOURCE REFERENCES BELOW:
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