The importance of sharing the gospel of Christ with those who are lost cannot be over-emphasized. Jesus wants everyone to hear the good news of salvation (Mark 16:15-16), and has provided the gospel as God’s power to save all who obey it (Rom. 1:16-17).
The Institute for American Church Growth asked over 10,000 people this question: “What was responsible for your coming to Christ and this church?” Their replies were:
I had a special need – 3% I just walked in – 3% I liked the minister – 6% I visited there – 1% I liked the Bible classes – 5% I attended a gospel meeting – 0.5% I liked the programs – 3% A friend or relative invited me – 79%
The obvious point of the survey is this: If churches are to grow, it will be through the efforts of individual members! Preachers, programs, and classes may aid our growth, but individual members have the greatest potential for impact.
Each of us has daily contact with people who need the gospel of Christ. Two fundamental things are needed to utilize the contacts made through individual members of the congregation:
CONCERN for the lost by those members (Matt. 9:36-38; Rom. 9:1-3; 10:1). PRACTICE ways to increase our opportunities to share the gospel with those with whom we frequently come
into contact.
Assuming the concern is there, the accompanying “action steps” will help us as Christians to increase opportunities for the gospel to be shared with relatives, friends, neighbors, and others.
MAKE A LIST of souls you would like to see taught the gospel PRAY for those on your list daily DO THINGS which demonstrates your love for them INVITE those on your list to attend services DEMONSTRATE hospitality to those who attend
These suggestions are offered with a firm belief that if they are carried out, our opportunities to share the gospel and save souls will be greatly increased!
For the elders (Gregg Woodall)