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Evangelism: Overview


"....but as it is written, 'They shall see who have never been told of Him, and they shall understand who have never heard of Him.'"  Romans 15: 21

This introduction to Evangelism explains what a new church should consider as it reaches out to engage its community and invite individuals to become disciples (see Discipleship).

Evangelism is defined very broadly here, as we reach out in a variety of ways to shine the light of Christ into a dark world.  As such, Evangelism is defined to include Mercy Ministries, [Community Outreach], [Servant Evangelism], Alpha Program and the programs of hospitality we offer "visitors" to our church (see Church Visitor Guide).  Of course, your church may include others or exclude some we will present here.

The word "evangelism" evokes negative images in the minds of many in the "unchurched" community.  It is a mistake to begin by judging the validity of these images, or of those who hold them.  We have not been commanded to separate the deserving from the undeserving, no matter how biased they might appear to us.  Each one is to be accepted as he is, just as we have been accepted by Christ as we are.

And while we work hard to keep our evangelism efforts "contextual" it is important to remember that the Spirit brings to us who He wills.  We may be seeking to reach a certain neighborhood or a particular demographic group or worldview.  But God's surprising plan will inevitably bring some to us who don't fit our pre-conceived mold. 

"Really honest receptivity means inviting the stranger into our world on his or her terms, not ours.  When we say, 'You can be my guest if you believe what I believe, think the way I think and behave as I do,' we offer love under a condition or for a price."  Henri Nouwen, Reaching Out.

Go back to Evangelism

Go on to Evangelism: How To Start


Last Modified 5/11/05 11:16 AM

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