Spontaneous Evangelism
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells his followers to make disciples of all nations. That message was intended to be passed on to future generations — all the way up to present day and beyond — but how strictly do we adhere to that call?
I will say that a number of you take it very seriously, and our church has grown substantially as a result, but it is important that we all participate in this mission.
Earlier this month, Steve Moore and I met with former Oak Chapel Pastor Keith Bohley to talk about that very subject. It was an enlightening and insightful discussion, but it was highlighted by something that none of us saw coming.
During one of the waitresses’ visits to our table, Pastor Bohley asked if she had a place to worship. Surprised by the question, she stumbled a bit in her response, but eventually acknowledged that she and her family did not have a home church.
At that point, Pastor Bohley’s evangelistic instincts kicked in, and he carefully guided her through a very gentle, nonthreatening conversation, concluding with an offer to consider coming to Oak Chapel. I then handed her my card and invited her to join us some Sunday.
It was a poignant reminder that evangelistic opportunities can come up anywhere at any time, so it would be prudent for us to be prepared. Oh, and you don’t have to be an experienced clergy member like Pastor Bohley. Any of us can do it, and many of you have. So let us join together once again and ramp up our efforts to advance God’s Kingdom here on earth by being ready to share the Good News at a moment’s notice.