Evangelism in the Local Church

Four things we should be doing in the local church to reach out to lost people:

1. Seek to foster an environment of social and cultural engagement in which church members increasingly come to see themselves as missionaries in their workplaces, in their schools, in their neighborhoods, on bowling teams, in book clubs, at neighborhood barbeques, etc. The local church is to be a place where believers gather each week for worship and the ministry of the Word. But then after we gather, we scatter! We go to serve as beacons of light in our communities. We should strive to help our people understand and internalize this calling to live as Christian missionaries within the context of our community. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity” (Col 4:5). Here Paul reveals his understanding that we are all resident missionaries in the places where we live and that our connections with those outside the church are opportunities to share the gospel. As we share the gospel, then, he thus calls us to live exemplary lives in order that our lives might bear witness to the reality of the gospel we proclaim.

2. Develop evangelism training. Many Christians are reluctant to share their faith because they’re not sure how to go about it. Evangelism training designed to teach Christians how to share their faith can go a long way toward helping them to overcome this obstacle (one such training program is Way of the Master). This might also include training in apologetics to help our people better understand how to give an answer to those who ask them about the hope that is within them (1 Pet 3:15).

3. Seek to foster an environment within small groups in which evangelism was encouraged. Often times we hear a sermon or read a book in which evangelism is highlighted and encouraged. Something like this may renew our passion to share our faith. But as time goes by we get involved in other things and we may not keep this in the forefront of our minds. Small groups can provide a place of accountability where we are reminded of this call Christ has placed on our lives. In this way we can spur one another on to love and good deeds (Heb 10:25).

4. Consider developing some outreach groups. Outreach groups are groups in which a leader and several others from the church meet with people in their community to study the Bible over the course of several weeks (perhaps 8 to 10 weeks). It is an informal and safe environment where people from all backgrounds are able to share openly as they investigate Christianity. A good example of this kind of course is Christianity Explored.