Why Personal Evangelism?
Introduction:
Personal
evangelism: “One person talking to another person about his need
for the salvation found only in Jesus Christ, with the purpose of
bringing him to a decision.” With that definition in mind, any
Christian concerned about the souls of others can do it. Note
Paul’s great concern in
Romans
9:1-3.
Talking with a friend or co-worker can be done any day of the week,
any time of the day, and in any place. It can be done in places
like a living room, office, factory, school, or even a jail. Most
people who become Christians do so because of a friend or a relative
(79%). Your efforts are vital to the cause of Christ.
Body:
I. Follow
the Example of My Lord
-
Luke 19:10
“for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was
lost.”
This was Jesus’ mission and purpose. It needs to be the
mission and purpose of His followers as well. They should do
all in their power. This should spring from a great love for
the souls of others. Jesus loved people so much that He
sacrificed Himself on the cross. (I Peter 2:21-24)
II.
Follow the Example of the Early Church
-
Acts 8:1, 4
Christians were true to the gospel even amidst great
persecution. This teaches us that sometimes personal work may
be uncomfortable and even cause some anxiety. It is worth it!
III. It’s
a Commandment
-
Matthew 28:18-20
“Go
and make disciples”
is not an option, but a command to all who call Jesus “Lord.”
Disciples are to make other disciples. This is part of
bearing fruit. (John
15:1-6)
-
We must
use our talents and abilities and resources to help others
become disciples of Christ.
IV. It’s
Vital If the Church Is to Grow
-
Jesus is
head of the body, the church. Each of us has a part to play in
building up that body. (Romans
12:4-8)
Each of these gifts, if used well, can help the church to grow.
-
No
member should think that he can’t do anything to help the church
grow. We all have enough knowledge of the Word to teach someone
how to be saved. We all know enough to tell others how we were
saved and why we did it.
-
Follow
Paul’s advice to Timothy in
II
Timothy 2:2.
We should be able to teach.
V.
There’s No Greater Work
-
Matthew 16:26
The worth of a soul is greater than the gain of the whole
world!
-
This
brings tremendous joy.
III
John 4 “I
have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in
truth.”
Invitation:
A story of
Henry Ford and his friend who sold life insurance relates that Henry
Ford bought life insurance from someone else. When his friend
asked, “Why didn’t you buy from me?” Henry Ford responded: “You
never asked me.”
Bobby
Stafford
February 5,
2012
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