Evangelism (means a messenger of "good news").

Evangelism can occur just by invitation to church.  We share in servant evangelism - loving our neighbor by practical good deeds, and by invitation to our Big Days.  We usually have a big day in Feb. and September.  We are seeking to invite, show hospitality, and to connect.  

The Great Commison found in Matthew 28:19-20 says "go."  Obviously, we are to be active in evangelizing (to bring into the doors of the church) so that we can disciple as Jesus commanded.  As Methodists, we see this fulfilled in both word and deed.  Jesus sent out the 12 and then the 70 in evangelizing campaigns (this is the word).  Jesus and the disciples also were active in healing and praying ministiries (this is the deed).  Both word and deed are needed for an effective evangelism ministry. 

We had a "Big Day" of invitation in Feb. 2009.  Evangelism is not just something that happens, but one that is actively planned for and prayed about.  We had about 25 visitors on that day.  Last fall we did a Servant Evangelism project and had a booth at Hart's Pumpkin Fesitival and Goldston's Old Fashion Days.  We gave water and Bibles away at those events. 

The evangelism myths listed below are for us to re-think what evangelism is and the blog web address is given below from where these myths were found.

 http://mondaymorninginsight.com/index.php/site/comments/debunking_the_popular_myths_of_evangelism/

These are quotes from the above webaddress.  The included links are not necessarily the opinion of the pastor or of the church but are included to get us to think about what evangelism is. 

Myth #1 Everything we do is evangelism! Maybe you have not heard that one - but I have - it was especially popular a few years ago.  If everything we do is evangelism - then we must not be doing anything at all! Otherwise our churches would be bursting open with new life and new churches would be formed in record numbers!

Myth #2 People cannot be reached by “cold call” evangelism! Tell the Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses that and watch them laugh!!!!  It is not the most effective method - and culturally one can argue that it has become less effective.  Yet - when coupled with a “probe” of a community - or a distribution of gifts for a neighborhood - or pre-site visits for a block party - there will be people God has prepared to hear the gospel - and they will trust Christ!

Myth #3 People will not come to church if I invite them! Whoa!  Contrary to the popular belief of many - most people - especially if invited by a friend or co-worker - will attend a worship service - if invited.  The key is giving “a meaningful invitation!”

Myth #4 Personal evangelism is just not the way to share Christ anymore! Get them to a service and let the “pros” handle it!  Not exactly!  Personal evangelism is a “growing process” for the believer.  For a new believer or one inexperienced with sharing their faith - a logical “next step of obedience” is indeed to invite as many of your friends as possible to weekend worship services and pray for their salvation!!!  Absolutely! 

As one grows in confidence and knowledge of the gospel - they can add to this the “personal sharing” of the gospel with others.  We will not win the world to Christ by just reaching those we can get to come to us.  We need “exponential” growth to really impact the culture and the Kingdom.  That requires personal obedience to the Great Commission and the Great Commandment!  At some point we have to so love Christ that He is in our hearts - our expression - on our lips - and our faces!!! 

Again - inviting people to a weekend service is one part of evangelism that we should not ignore!  Everyone can do this!  But we should not stop there!  Become more personal in sharing your faith and enjoy the blessings of leading people to Christ.

Myth # 5 A church cannot grow without a formal outreach program!  Maybe!  For a church without an outward focus, a “program” of outreach can be an effective tool to refocus and energize people to look outward and reach people.  There is no “one best” program for this - whatever fits your people!