Evangelism for the 21st Century (Part 1) - Identifying Idols

Randy Newman
Acts 17:16-34

Evangelism in the 21st century is a unique challenge. Today, we face barriers that create a need for having more pre-evangelistic conversations, conversations in which we help people across different theological truths before ever arriving to the gospel. One specific barrier in evangelism is the problem of idols. We often have our own idols of comfort or peace that prevent us from sharing the gospel. But those who do not know God also have idols in their life that take reign in their hearts. Learn how to address these by following principles demonstrated by the Apostle Paul in his own evangelism.

Living the Life of Faith

Dennis McCallum
Hebrews 13:1-3

The author of Hebrews highlights the importance of exercising sacrificial love as a follower of Christ.. First the love for other believers in community is highlighted. The author then expresses the need for the church to love the non-believer as a group. Finally he encourages the church to endure as persecution continues to increase.

The Level Playing Field

Ryan Lowery
Ephesians 2:11-22

The Author Paul gives the first command so far in the book of Ephesians - that the people would remember who they were before their relationship with God. It was God's intention to unite all people by first showing the world who he was through the nation of Israel. Now God intends to show the world who he is through the love of his people. When believers go out into our world we too need to remember our lives before we knew God.

God's Ways Always Triumph in the End

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 3:8-4:2

The idea that God blesses those who are righteous and punishes those who are wicked is challenged by our observations about the world around us. In an eternal sense, those who trust in Christ will ultimately win out. Though Christians may suffer in this life, they have the opportunity to share God's love with with confidence that it is worth it in the end.

Enduring Injustice

Ryan Lowery
1 Peter 2:11-25

Inevitably, every Christian encounters injustice from others. Though our indignation in the face of evil is a correct response, we are meant to fight injustice by proclaiming the humility and love of Christ.

Fight the Good Fight

Jim Leffel
1 Timothy 6:12-16

In his letter to Timothy, Paul encourages him to fight the good fight to manifest the truth and life of Christ. Jesus' sacrifice offers a new life that Christians most choose to live out. An understanding of the character of God is essential.

Ministries of Compassion

Jim Leffel
1 Timothy 5:3-16

We must view our wealth as a stewardship and from the perspective of God's priorities. The western church is in a unique position to strategically care for the poor domestically and to support missions overseas. Kat Gossman spoke about her experience in the refugee ministry at Whispering Oaks.

Sharing the Message of Jesus with Jewish People (Part 2)

Eric Chabot
1 Timothy 5:3-16

To share Jesus with Jewish people it is crucial to understand their stumbling blocks. Many of these stumbling blocks come about because of a faulty interpretation of scripture. To reach Jewish people you must be dedicated to building relationships with trust. It is not just adorning the gospel but sharing the redemption that Jesus wants to gift all people.

Corporate Evangelism

Dennis McCallum
Acts 14:1

There are many different strategies to evangelism, one that is proven successful is corporate evangelism. Corporate evangelism is warranted biblically and exposes people to the love of Christ through His church. Helpful elements to corporate evangelism include prayer meetings, large meetings, small meetings, and group investment outside of meetings. The more equipped the church can become to work together the more successful it will be to share the love of Christ.