Creating an Evangelistic Culture

Slide1 : Creating an Evangelistic Culture


Slide2 : Creating an Evangelistic Culture Examining A New Methodology for Church Growth


Slide3 : In years past, there have been many methods by which Christians and churches have been successful in fostering local church growth. As society around us evolves we must continue to study and adapt to the most effective ways to reach the lost with the gospel of Christ (1Cor. 9:19-23). Colossians 4:5: “Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of time.” What was effective 10, 20 or 50 years ago may not be effective now. Introduction


Slide4 : The following information is based on analysis from what has been the most effective methods of evangelism in recent years. The numbers and facts that are presented in this lesson are based on the data that was gathered through this extensive study. Introduction


Slide5 : “Congregational Evangelism” calls upon every member to be fully and actively involved. This requires us to create a culture within the church that makes evangelism a part of our daily lives as opposed to limiting evangelism to ‘qualified individuals’ and specific outreach programs. Ephesians 4:15-16 “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Congregational Evangelism


Slide6 : Regarding the process of establishing this culture, author Thom Rainer said it is like “eating an elephant.” So how do you eat an elephant? Congregational Evangelism ONE BITE AT A TIME!


Slide7 : We must remember that our part in saving someone’s soul is very minimal, but absolutely vital. God has entrusted us to share His plan. He will take care of the rest! Congregational Evangelism


Slide8 : You probably don’t realize how influential you are! Congregational Evangelism


Slide9 : Creating this ‘Culture of Congregational Evangelism’ must first begin with each member recognizing and harnessing their relationships with those who are lost. Matthew 5:13: “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.” When we lose our flavor we become useless in the service of our Lord! Congregational Evangelism


Slide10 : Have you ever been in the dark before (can’t even see the hand in front of your face dark)? Congregational Evangelism


Slide11 : Have you ever been in the dark before (can’t even see the hand in front of your face dark)? Congregational Evangelism And then you see something in the distance?


Slide12 : And as you get closer you realize it is a light that can lead you out of darkness? Congregational Evangelism


Slide13 : Imagine all of our lights shining brightly in this community! Congregational Evangelism Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”


Slide14 : For congregational evangelism to be successful the church must be a family of believers where others can come to see them work, worship and teach the truth of the gospel without being attacked or ignored but made to feel comfortable. John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide15 : Our society has shifted to more of a willingness to attend a church service rather than accept an invitation for a personal home bible study. Most people want to see what ‘your church’ teaches and practices before they will ever agree to a study. Focusing on Visitor Flow How many of us would send our child to a school without first examining their facilities and credentials? That’s why we do walkthroughs!


Slide16 : The method that was once used to create flow now lacks effectiveness. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide17 : The new method focuses on creating flow before a study is presented. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide18 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow Colossians 4:5: “Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of time.”


Slide19 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow It is vital that we live exemplary moral lives so that others can verify that we are truly people of the Bible. (Mt. 5:16; 1 Pet. 3:13-16)


Slide20 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow The people of God need to start making some noise about the Lord, His church and the joy that we possess. (1 Thessalonians 1:8)


Slide21 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow We need to allow others to see New Testament saints involved in their work and worship before God, edifying and loving one another in the assemblies planned. (1 Corinthians 14: 23,26,33)


Slide22 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow We need to prepare our members to extend a warm welcome to each and every one that takes the time to show their interest in spiritual things by visiting with us. (James 2:1-5)


Slide23 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow Once a prospect has been found, we must carefully and cautiously help cultivate the relationship that they have with God and His people. (Luke 8:11-15)


Slide24 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow We need to find out where our prospects are in their life and then learn to start with them in a study of the word of God at that place. (Heb. 5:12-14; Ax 8:30-35)


Slide25 : In focusing on visitor flow there are several things that we must emphasize for it to be effective: Virtue Verification Natural Noise Visual Visits Warm Welcomes Cultural Cultivation Situation Studies Nurturing Nurseries Focusing on Visitor Flow We need to be equipped with a plan to help new converts grow and become stronger in the faith as they assemble with us and as we study with them. (Matthew 28:18-20; Ax 2:42)


Slide26 : Make a gentle noise. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide27 : Extend a gentle touch. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide28 : Invite them to “Come and see.” Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide29 : Cultivate the situational studies. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide30 : Convert their heart to the Lord. Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide31 : Statistics: Extend 100 invitations 10 of that 100 will visit. 4 of those 10 will return for at least a second visit. 1 of those 4 will turn out to be a ‘sincere seeker’. The question is: Are you willing to invite the 100 to find the 1 that will a prospect for the gospel?” Focusing on Visitor Flow


Slide32 : As we track the flow of our guests we need to be able to distinguish as quickly as possible the difference between “prospects” and “projects”. A prospect is one who is a ‘sincere seeker’. A project can either be ‘sincere’ or a ‘seeker’, but not both. A merely ‘sincere’ person has a good heart but is honestly not looking to change for truth. A simple ‘seeker’ is one who is always studying to know more but not willing to make necessarily life changes. Prospects vs. Projects


Slide33 : The reason for the changes in our society is the urbanization of our nation. We see 100’s of people every day and never even make eye contact with them. This truth causes us to become unaware of the fact that many of these people are lost souls and need us to reach out and give them a gentle touch and a warm bridge of the love of the Lord. Sometimes we can feel like we don’t have a chance to reach the masses, so we just do nothing at all. Understanding Urbanization


Slide34 : With urbanization comes a generation of people with very limited biblical knowledge. This is quite different from just 50 years ago. Understanding Urbanization What would happen if you tried to give a baby a large piece of meat? While we try not to allow the word to be choked out of those who hear it, we certainly should not choke them with the word! (Heb. 5:14; 1 Cor. 3:1-3)


Slide35 : Spiritual Abortion – Killing a Prospect Understanding Urbanization Good Morning Reverend. How are you today? The Bible says in Psalm 111:9, “Holy and Reverend is HIS name” and calling any man such a thing is a sin.


Slide36 : Spiritual Abortion – Killing a Prospect Understanding Urbanization Good Morning Reverend. How are you today? Just call me Dan. I’m doing great today and I’m very glad to see you’ve joined us to praise God today.


Slide37 : We need to make sure our visitors and prospects understand that we are only interested in using the Bible as our source of authority in EVERYTHING! 2 Timothy 4:2-4 “preach the word... for the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching... and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” Sincere seekers today will respect a church that boldly stands for truth. 10 Essentials for Church Growth 1. Follow the Bible


Slide38 : Sincere workers in the kingdom will appreciate the challenge of living with greater spiritual commitment. Luke 14:33: “So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” If we set the bar too low and only expect the lowest standard from others, that is all that we will get. Many churches are filled with those who do as little as they can to still be considered faithful and dedicated. 10 Essentials for Church Growth 2. Set High Standards of Commitment


Slide39 : In a world that has been decaying morally, for many it seem hopeless to find people living virtuously. Moral living is not old-fashioned it’s God-fashioned! It will be by our good works that others will be led to glorify God (1 Peter 2:12) Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” 10 Essentials for Church Growth 3. Maintain Strong Levels of Morality


Slide40 : God’s people should be recognized for their loving, caring spirit just as much as the truth they stand for. When we show no interest in others who come to seek a spiritual life, we are telling them that they are not important to us. We could be guilty of causing a prospect to lose their soul due to the lack of help and concern that we offer to them. John 13:34-35 10 Essentials for Church Growth 4. Express a Loving, Enfolding Spirit


Slide41 : A growing church has leadership (eldership) that grows right along with it. The local church will only grow to the potential that the pastors provide. 1 Peter 5:2-3 “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you, not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.” 10 Essentials for Church Growth 5. Calm, Steady, Visionary Leadership


Slide42 : Good: On-time (early) teacher arrival; Adequate preparation; Material/Curriculum that is engaging; Learning environment that is comfortable; Teachers who want to teach. Bad: Late arrival by the teacher; Lack of preparation; Dry, boring, outdated curriculum; Stale learning environment; Teachers who are only teaching because they feel like they have to. Colossians 3:23 – “heartily unto the Lord” 10 Essentials for Church Growth 6. Exciting, Enthusiastic Bible Classes


Slide43 : The concept of “Congregational Evangelism” accomplishes this effectively. Every part of the body of Christ is needed for the proper functioning of the whole unit. Ephesians 4:16: “from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” 10 Essentials for Church Growth 7. Every Member Committed to Growth


Slide44 : For the visitor, it is our assembly that will be the first impression he/she will have. Our assemblies of praise and worship need to be prepared, reverent and joyful all at the same. Hebrews 12:28-29: “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” 10 Essentials for Church Growth 8. Reverent & Edifying Assemblies


Slide45 : Growing churches are “making some noise” in their respective communities about their faith, their bible classes and praise & worship assemblies. Churches that are experiencing guests each week are working to find effective ways to say “come.” Remember, for this type of evangelism (congregational) to be successful we must focus on effective ways to generate “flow”. 10 Essentials for Church Growth 9. Enthusiastic Efforts to Motivate Flow


Slide46 : We need to be offering prayers at every assembly for guidance & wisdom on how to effectively reach the lost with Christ’s gospel. Colossians 4:2-3: “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ...” Pray that you will become a dedicated soul-winner! 10 Essentials for Church Growth 10. Pray for Wisdom & the Lost


Slide47 : It is important to understand the difference between “growing” and “swelling” as far as church growth is concerned. Brother Harold Comer said: “When I speak about growth I am generally talking about conversions and increasing the population of heaven and not about creating bigger churches... The congregation may become larger with evangelism but increasing the ‘innumerable multitude’ in heaven is the church’s task!...” When you convert people there will also generally be transfers of converted people. I will refer to “transfers” as “swelling. Transfers” increase the size of the local congregation but that doesn’t fulfill the task God gave you! When you teach or turn a lost person to God, that’s growing!” Big churches don’t always mean working churches! Growing vs. Swelling


Slide48 : The most fundamental principle concerning ‘congregational evangelism’ is that it cannot be successful unless someone extends an invitation by saying “Come and see...” It is founded upon Christ’s invitation found in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” It must also be understood that without one to proclaim the good news, no one can come! Romans 10:14-15 “Come and See!”


Slide49 : Extending an invitation is not a new idea. It is a biblical principle through and through: Matthew 14:28-33 – Peter walks on water Luke 14:15-27 – A table is prepared John 1:35-49 – The disciples are called John 4:25-30 – Samaritan woman Revelation 22:17 “The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.” “Come and See!”


Slide50 : Offering “spiritual benefits” or “scriptural values” is probably the most effective method of extending an invitation: “You have wonderful children and we would be so excited to have them participate in our bible classes.” “I am sorry you are having to deal with that. Having and knowing the promises of truth from God is how I get through the tough times. Why don’t you come by and meet with our church. It just might be what you need. “Would you enjoy knowing that everything we say and do is founded upon the Bible?” Scriptural Values


Slide51 : Great Bible Classes: Stories about the emphasis on the Bible in our classes. Stories on the effort that is put into teaching the Bible well. Stories about the compliments and impressions of others. Examples of what the kids can learn How children benefit personally from good Bible teaching. How good bible classes can benefit a family. Bible-Filled Sermons: What the benefit of Bible sermons every Sunday does for you personally. Scriptural Values


Slide52 : Benefits of prayer in your life: How prayer has helped you in difficult times. The joy of being forgiven of your sins. The security of God’s continual presence. How looking toward Heaven helps: Getting through the toughest things in life. Overcome bad habits. The joy of having 100’s of mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and houses. Scriptural Values


Slide53 : The protection I receive when I obey God’s moral restrictions. The weekly refreshment of sincere Bible-centered praise & worship services. The excitement of having something worthwhile to live for – what life with hope feels like. The benefits of local autonomy vs. centralized denominational control and interference. How singing instead of listening has hit me with a message I really needed to hear. Scriptural Values


Slide54 : REMEMBER THESE WORDS: “If you are ever looking for (one of these values) I would like to recommend the church in _______________” Scriptural Values


Slide55 : We need to be ready to show love, give a sense of importance and be accepting to every guest (regardless of their appearance or status). Take non-verbal messages seriously: Location, appearance, design, cleanliness, colors, sign, parking lot, etc. First-time visitors are skeptical, suspicious and uncertain – the smallest neglects will drive them away. Remember that visitor flow is essential in making congregational evangelism successful! Responding to Visitors


Slide56 : In one visit, we must give our guests a reason to return: Non-complex teaching (don’t let them leave confused) Easy participation (e.g. song selection) Prepared leaders (preachers & teachers) Quality facilities (convenience and comfort) Things that will be considered by guests: Where to sit and park (open spaces and seating) When to arrive (greeters are expedient) First impression (5-8 minutes) Responding to Visitors Are We Here To Save Souls or Save Money!


Slide57 : Some problems that need to be solved: We are so concerned with self, family and truth that we forget about the souls of others. We are committed to just about everything except seeing evangelism carried out. We fail to pay careful attention to opportunities to talk to people about the Lord (e.g. Religious Holidays). Often we do not ask God to guide us in what we say and do; Remember – we only plant and water, He gives the increase! Comfort zones = Danger zones! Responding to Visitors


Slide58 : To Sum It All Up: Congregational Evangelism requires all to participate. Facilities and Teaching needs to be up to or above par. Visitor Flow is the lifeblood of this methodology. Saying, “Come” and using Scriptural Values. 10 Essentials for Church Growth Prospects vs. Projects – Searching for the Sincere Seeker. Conclusion Colossians 4:5: “Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.”