Could we do this?

In recent days, I have become more and more persuaded that evangelism must go hand in hand with sound biblical teaching. Moreover, I have always wished that there was some way to engage in what may be called "Hall of Tyrannus" evangelism (see Acts 19:8-10). But how can this be done in our day?

One answer is in-home Bible studies, and we are pursuing this route with the residents of Foxcroft and many seem open to it. Within the Foxcroft apartments are many single-moms, working hard to provide for their kids. So an important question to consider in our ministry to Foxcroft is: How do we minister well to single-moms, who lack a male leader in the home and who have crushing work schedules? In-home Bible studies are one way in which the Church can come alongside single-moms and help them raise their kids in the Christian faith. The other day I started thinking how great it would be if Harvest could somehow get a babysitting service started that these single moms might be able to count on. And what if this babysitting service was supplemented by teaching in the basic Christian fundamentals? Thus, two purposes would be served: 1) babysitting, which may meet a real need and 2) instruction in the Christian faith, which helps to meet the more ultimate need. This is just a thought.

Another idea in incorporating a "Hall of Tyrannus" style of evangelism/teaching might be to open up theology classes to everyone in the community, on a certain night of the week. Perhaps this could take the form of an enquirers' class that starts with the real questions of enquirers. I've even seen the effectiveness of small group studies like Christianity Explored, that take people through the Gospel of Mark in a way that avoids Christian jargon and creates thought-provoking questions.

As one who loves teaching the Christian faith, I really hope something can be done in our future to bring together evangelism and teaching. This method of evangelism was very effective for the early Church. And as we all know, the early Church found herself in an environment remarkably similar to our own.

In addition, I am often discouraged by the one-time door to door encounter. People just need more than this. They need to be taught. They need a safe place to ask real questions. And they need to see true Christian community beautifully lived out. And as evangelists, we all need to be respectful of the fact that conversion is usually the culmination of a process leading to faith.

I really encourage all readers of this blog to think more on this subject, interact, and offer some other fresh ideas that we can all get excited about. We all have a role to play. But for now, I have to sign off.

Remember that nothing takes off without prayer. God hears us and He alone is the Greatest Evangelist in the universe!