Evangelism 1 (witnessing as a way of life)

[disciple]

Witnessing as a way of life

NT evangelism is not a special activity to be undertaken at a set time; it is the constant, spontaneous overflow of your experiences and knowledge of Christ.
-OT example: Deut. 6:7
-NT example: Matt. 28:19-20 (“as you go”)
-NT believers as examples: Jesus (John 4), Peter (Acts 3), Philip (Acts 8), Paul (Acts 16), Andrew (John 1).

Relational evangelism means using existing relationships and developing new ones as bridges through which to share the gospel. This does not mean simply using a relationship as a means of sharing the gospel. It means being a friend, caring about them, and continuing to build a friendship after salvation (1 Th. 2:8).

Every person is the center of a network of relationships:
-family
-school & social activities
-neighbors
-co-workers
-other daily activities
One’s network of relationships naturally provides opportunities to share the gospel.

How most people come to Christ (American Christians only, but other cultures are probably similar):
-Church visitation: 1%
-Evangelistic crusades: 1%
-Church programs: 3%
-Sunday School: 5%
-Witness by a professional pastor: 6%
-Witness by a friend, relative, or other long-term acquaintance: 79%

Why is this response so good? Why is this percentage so high?
-The gospel is shared by a trusted friend
-The sharing is usually unhurried and natural (“a part of life”)
-A known lifestyle (hopefully) adds credibility to the witness
-The witness, being a friend, is a natural disciple maker for the new believer

We must discover more creative ways to become involved with unbelievers!

One can keep a prayer notebook that includes information about lost friends you are praying for: information such as name, address, phone number, e-mail, birthday, family info, hobbies & talents, interests, church relationship (if applicable), etc. Pray for them regularly, because God will open their hearts to the gospel (Acts 15:14, Col. 4:2-4).

Remember that it takes time for fruit to ripen, and all fruit doesn’t ripen at the same season or at our perceived rate. The Holy Spirit is working at His own pace. Be patient and persevere in prayer.

People around you are constantly moving between times of crisis and calm, responsiveness and resistance. People who have recently experienced a high degree of change in their lives are generally more receptive. Therefore, be alert to express loving concern at such times of need.

The average person needs 7 hearings of the gospel before accepting. Some may need only 2 while others may need as many as 25. No one hears anything the first time, so don’t become discouraged.

Witnessing as a way of life will not happen automatically. You must work consciously, regularly, and prayerfully to develop this. Jesus is the perfect example of witnessing as a way of life.
-He used water (John 4)
-He used bread (John 6)
-He used light (John 9)
-He used the resurrection (John 11)