Evangelism

In this lecture, Al Dayhoff, DMin addresses the class on his unique evangelism ministry. He notes that 50% of the population is writing their stories on their skin and we haven't made the connection. In his book, God and Tattoos: Why are people writing on themselves?, he explains that tattoos are a hidden language in plain view. One of the most meaningful things we can do is ask "Does your tattoo have a story?" Explore the context of Leviticus 19:28, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” Consider that tattoos are tombstones. This generation is commemorating their dead in a different way than any time before. Tattoos are also poetry. The Apostle's creed of the post-Christian world is showing up on the live canvas of the skin. Dayhoff explains that tattoos are armor and also show her beauty. Tattoos are totems. People are labeling themselves in the search for personhood. Consider that the new shaman is the tattoo artist. Tattoos are also recovery. Did God write on Jesus' skin? In Isaiah 53:5 we read, “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.” We also read in Revelation 19:16, “On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”

In this lecture, Chad Mullinix explores the relationship of evangelism and prayer. We read in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” We also read in Matthew 4:17, “From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Explore the Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 102. J. C. Ryle states, "The wheels of all machinery for extending the gospel are moved by prayer." Consider the example of Jesus in Matthew 9:37-38. “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’” Consider Matthew 9:35-36. Who should pray? How should we pray? In Luke 8:38 we read, “The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him…” In 2 Corinthians 8:4 we also read, “…begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints…” Augustine stated, "Pray as though everything depended on God, work as though everything depended on you." To whom should we pray? Consider 1 Corinthians 3:5-6, “What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” What is it that we pray? In 2 Thessalonians 3:1-3 we read, “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” Prayer is part of the heartbeat of the Apostle Paul's ministry. All in the church are to pray. William Still states, "Happy the people however tiny the nucleus who begin to see or be made to see that they have the makings of the ministry if not the minister in their own hands by prayer."

Chad Mullinix continues to address the class on evangelism and its relationship to prayer using the text from Matthew 9:37-38, “Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’" Consider 2 Thessalonians 3:1-3, 2 Thessalonians 1:1, and 2 Corinthians 1:19-20. Consider also 1 Peter 5:12, “By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.” The "us" in 2 Thessalonians 3:1 is Paul, Timothy, and Silvanus. These were three men who were called to gospel ministry. How should we be praying for ministers of the gospel? We find the answer in 2 Thessalonians 3:1-3, “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith. But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” What does it mean to have the Word of the Lord honored? Consider 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 and 2:13. Explore 2 Thessalonians 3:2, “…and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.” Anytime the gospel comes there will be opposition. J. C. Ryle stated, "This is the highest charity. He loves me best who loves me in his prayers. This is to be like Christ. He bears the name of his people as their High Priest before the Father. Oh, the privilege of being like Jesus. This is to be a true helper to ministers. If I must choose a congregation, give me a people that pray. The work of ministry is too large and heavy to bear alone. Ministry or evangelism cannot truly and properly be done unless it is done with prayer. What are some of the ways that you can see this spirit of prayer being developed in the ministries where you are?

Chad Mullinix continues to explore the good news of hospitality. Explore Acts 21:4-5, 7-10, 15-16. We also read in Romans 16:1-2, “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.” What if the church would take a greater role in being hospitable? The good news of hospitality includes receiving the condescending and gracious love of God, demonstrating hospitality, supporting those going out with the good news, and welcoming those needing to hear the good news. Explore Acts 28:17, 21-24. Continuing in Acts 28:30-31 we read, “He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” Karen Mains states, "When we are given to hospitality, we can become missionaries without leaving our homes." She also reflects that, "These gifts of hospitality till the soil, fertilize the ground, and prepare for the evangelist who knows how to harvest the field to ensure maximum yield."

Chad Mullinix continues to share how his church does evangelism. Explore the good news of hospitality. Benjamin L. Corey states that, "People leave the church when they can't find community." He also states that, "People leave the church because they get turned off by social climbing, cliques, and nepotism" and "People leave church because they feel lonely." A Barna study found people responded that, "The church feels unfriendly to those who doubt." Lifeway Research reported that people thought the church is unloving. A Twitter poll reported that the church is full of unfriendly church members. For Karen Mains, "Evangelism without a functioning household of God will result in a high mortality rate." What is hospitality? The term philoxenia (φιλοξενία) means “a love for strangers.” We read in Hebrews 13:2, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” The good news of hospitality is receiving condescending love. Explore the Westminster Confession of Faith 7.1. Genesis 1:28-29 tells us, “And God blessed them... And God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food." We read also in Genesis 2:10, “A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and there it divided and became four rivers.” Consider God’s gracious love. Consider the Westminster Confession of Faith 7.3. Consider Israel in bondage in Egypt as an example. In Romans 5:8,10 we read, “...but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us... For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son…” Consider that we also need to demonstrate hospitality. Explore Ephesians 5:1-2, 1 John 4:19, and Romans 15:7. Mains states, "Why are our efforts at evangelism often abortive? Because the church has lost the awareness that it is a household of God into which we are to invite the weary and downtrodden in spirit as well as in body." Reflect on 1 John 3:16-18. We also need to support those going out with the good news. Matthew 10:9-11 tells us, “Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food. And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart.” Consider that part of the way whether a person receives the gospel or not is whether they receive you. Explore 3 John 2-5,8.

This student gospel presentation is on evangelism and neighbors. The class will then discuss the presentation.

This student gospel presentation is on evangelism and a funeral setting. The class will then discuss the presentation.

This student gospel presentation is on evangelism and an inter-faith conference. The class will then discuss the presentation.

This student gospel presentation is on evangelism and addiction. The class will then discuss the presentation.

This student gospel presentation is on evangelism and abstinence. The class will then discuss the presentation.

Chad Mullinix continues to share how his church does evangelism. Families are a way to do evangelism. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, we read, “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” Acts 2:39 states, “For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” Ephesians 6:4 states, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” How can we equip families to evangelize their children? Evangelism can also be done through hospitality and officers in the church. We read in Acts 6:7, “And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.” Consider direct and indirect evangelism. Visitors to the church can be visited, and consider the power of music. In Colossians 3:16 we read, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Explore a chart of the gospel presentation including Jesus with his death and resurrection at the center, and surrounding that with the benefits included of forgiveness, church, and joy. The context and crisis is outside the circle and the goal is to find the contact point within the gospel circle. Explore some thoughts about the gospel presentation. There is a need to find common ground and we have not failed if we haven't presented the entirety of the gospel. Do we believe that all questions have their ultimate answer in Jesus? Consider the early church and our post-Christian culture. In the early church, people came to faith because of loneliness, the Christians had one mind, people saw how slaves, women, rich, and poor were treated, there was hospitality, singing, dining, freedom from fate, and moral power. People saw how the Christians suffered, there was meaning and schools. People also saw the uniqueness of Jesus as evidenced by the early graffiti, family conversions, and methods used. Consider making Christianity different.

Explore the history of evangelism. In Revivalism, those leading revivals wanted things to happen outside of churches. Revival meetings are primarily aimed at nominal Christians. The problem with revivals is that the gospel has not gone from the head to the heart. There is also a type of resistance to the gospel because people may say, "I've heard it before." We tend to assume people know things they don't actually know. For evangelism in our post-Christian culture we to not assume too much. We should be raising people's curiosity about the gospel, using language and concepts people understand, and make Christianity weird and fresh. The class discusses the evangelism videos.

Chad Mullinix, pastor or Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church shares with the class on the topic of evangelism in our local church. If evangelism is not taking place in the church we need to ask if we are headed in the right direction. Recall that the center of evangelism is Christ's death, resurrection and forgiveness He provides for sinners. We need to connect the gospel to various aspects of life. Pastor Mullinix shares some things that his church does for evangelism. They go door to door in their neighborhood. The basis is Acts 5:42, “And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.” Also we read in Acts 20:20. “...how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you in public and from house to house…” When going door to door, take names and addresses of those who seem to show openness. The church also uses tracts, technology, meals, setting up a table at community events, and preaching. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 states, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures…” Consider Colossians 1:28. The sacraments can also be used for evangelism. Matthew Henry stated, "The sacraments are a sermon to the eye." In 1 Corinthians 11:26 we read, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.” Prayer can be used for evangelism. Prayer is one of the most important spokes on the evangelistic wheel. Offerings also can be used for evangelism. We read in 1 Timothy 5:17-18, “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The laborer deserves his wages.’”

Larry Trotter continues to examine the gospel presentation. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-6 we read, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time…” An excellent benefit of the gospel to emphasize is justification. Consider that sometimes justification is presented as the gospel when it is really a benefit of the gospel. Explore types of personal evangelism such as prepared presentations. We must be careful to listen to people and adapt the presentation to their needs. Presentations include friendship evangelism, friendly evangelism, Bible study evangelism, and evangelism and prayer.

Larry Trotter continues sharing with the class. Does the Bible evangelize? Consider the Bible and preaching. We need to trust the appointed means of grace. The Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 89 asks, ”How is the word made effectual to salvation? A: The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially the preaching of the word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners, and of building them up in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation.” Question 90 asks, “How is the word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation? A: That the word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation, and prayer, receive it with faith and love, lay it up in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.” Assume non-Christians are present when preaching. If non-Christians are present, avoid jargon (Christian language). If a theological word is needed, explain it. Do all you can to help people manage the Bible. Resist formulas and preach Christ as the text preaches Christ. Should non-believers be addressed in the sermon? Consider the elements of worship and the dividing line. We do people a disservice by not fencing the table clearly and missing an evangelistic opportunity. John Leonard speaks of evangelizing Christians and discipling non-Christians.

Larry Trotter demonstrates the Gospel presentation in a group setting. Psalm 93:1-5 and Psalm 139:1-12 are read aloud to the group. The group considers Exodus 34:5-7 and explores 1 John 4: 7-10. The group discusses John 3:16-18, 36. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”

Larry Trotter answers questions from the class concerning his mission experiences. How many people you have invited have come to church? Consider using the Bible study for the gospel presentation. Are people more reluctant to do the Bible study one-on-one? Consider advice to someone thinking about becoming a cross-cultural missionary.

Larry Trotter, pastor, missionary, and evangelist continues to explore with the class the gospel from Acts. What is the message? What are the main points? What was preached? Consider Acts 9:20-22, “And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’ And all who heard him were amazed and said, ‘Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?’ But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.” Also explore Acts 10:34-43, Acts 13:16-18, 21-25, and Acts 13: 26-32. Consider Acts 14:14-17, “But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out into the crowd, crying out, ‘Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them. In past generations he allowed all the nations to walk in their own ways. Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.’” In Acts 16:31 we read, “And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’” In Acts 17:2-3 we read, “And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, ‘This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.’” Consider Acts 17:30-31 and Acts 26:22-23. Finally, we read in Acts 28:23, “When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.”

Larry Trotter continues to discuss the gospel and the response that is required. Explore Acts 2:37-41, "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’ And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, ‘Save yourselves from this crooked generation.’ So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” Consider Acts 4:4 and Acts 8:36-38. Notice verse 37, “And Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ And he replied, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’” Continue to explore Acts 10:44-48, Acts 13:42-48, Acts 9:21, and Acts 14:18-19. Consider Acts 16:14-15 and Acts 16:32-34. Consider also Acts 17:4-5, “And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks and not a few of the leading women. But the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, seeking to bring them out to the crowd.” Consider Acts 17:32-34, Acts 20:18-21, Acts 26:24, and Acts 28:24. Larry Trotter summarizes with verses in Acts. In Acts 2:41 we read, “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” Explore Acts 2:42-47. We read in Acts 4:4, “But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand.” Consider Acts 5:12-14, “Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women…” And we also read in Acts 11:24-26, “...for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” What is the content of the gospel and what is the required response? It is sin, fulfillment of the Old Testament, life -righteous, good, power, Christ suffered death, His Resurrection and Ascension as Lord and Judge. The response is to believe, baptism, repentance, join or be added to the Church, and obey. In conclusion, the Apostles preached the gospel in different ways depending on the circumstances. They emphasized the death, resurrection and ascension of Christ and called people to repentance, faith, and baptism. How does a person become a Christian now? What is missing or added in today's evangelism procedure? Assurance and God as Judge are pointed out as missing today in the evangelism procedure.

Larry Trotter shares his experiences on the mission field in Mexico. Consider that from the days of revivalism and awakenings we have cut the tie with the church and the corporate testimony of the church and made it more individualistic and subjective.

Larry Trotter, a pastor, missionary, and evangelist addresses the class. He notes that ministry success is a mixture of biblical principles, trial and error, prudence, providence, and perseverance. The most important thing is do evangelism. It is important to put yourself in situations for evangelism and to just keep going. What is the Gospel? Consider the Apostolic Gospel. In Acts 2:14 we read, “But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.’” Explore Acts 2:22-24,Acts 2:29-33, Acts 2:36, Acts 3:12-16, and Acts 3:18. Also we read in Acts 3:26, “God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.” Consider Acts 4:8-12, Acts 7:51-53, and Acts 8:35. Finally, we read in Acts 8:32-33, “Now the passage of the Scripture that he was reading was this: ‘Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter and like a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opens not his mouth. In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life is taken away from the earth.’”

Bill Welzien shares his tabletop evangelism presentation.

What is the biblical problem and what is the solution? If the solution is justification by faith, then the problem is the penalty of sin. If the solution is Christ's kingdom or kingship, the problem is God’s "absence" of the kingdom on earth, the lack of true human vice-regency, and the dominion of Satan, sin, and death. The forgiveness of sins is a means to an end. In 1 Peter 2:24 we read, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.” Also in 1 Peter 3:18 we read, “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God.” Review the gospel diagram again. Consider Acts 17:22-23 and Acts 17:26-27. Explore the question of Jesus as Savior or Lord. What is the goal of evangelism? Is it discipleship or conversation? Is it decision or commitment? Is it experience or participation? What is the difference between discipleship and conversation? Are we looking for a decision or commitment? Is our goal experience or participation? The Gospel of me is when the gospel revolves around me. Some ask, “Where is the gospel in the Nicene or Apostles’ Creed?” Consider 2 Corinthians 4:4–5. The response of the gospel is repentance, faith, and baptism. Michael Bird states, "Christians were not thrown to the lions because they asked Jesus to come into their hearts. It was rather because they confessed that 'Jesus is Lord of all.'" Repentance is turning away from sin and idols and faith is turning toward the living God. Repentance is a disallegiance to self and faith is an allegiance to God. Both are embodied in baptism in the public renunciation of sin and allegiance to Christ. It is death to self and sin and alive to God in righteousness. Baptism is the "new birth" and marker of an identity in Christ. Baptism is also entrance into and identification with Christ's Church. Is Creation necessary to the gospel? Consider the gospel appeal to God as "maker of heaven and earth". Explore judgment as restorative justice in the gospel. The gospel reveals God’s justice. Explore Romans 3:25–26. Explore the Law and gospel. In the gospel message, humanity put Jesus on the cross. We read in Acts 2:37, "they were cut to the heart". Consider the gospel and Spirit. Review the gospel diagram with the Holy Spirit added. The gospel is the God-appointed means of the Spirit’s work in people’s hearts. Consider the sermons in Acts 14 and 17 to Gentiles. Explore Paul's testimony to the Jews. His testimony to the people is found in Acts 22:1–21, to the Sanhedrin in Acts 23:1–9, to Felix the governor in Acts 24:10–21, and to King Agrippa in Acts 26:1–23. Review the gospel diagram with our own history added.

Michael Green points out reasons why people came to Christian faith in the early church. People came to faith due to loneliness, the fellowship of the Christians, how slaves and women were treated, that the poor and rich mingled (not M. Green), due to Christian hospitality in the oikos meaning family or house, and Christianity as a burial society. We could say Christianity was like a dining club or fraternity.

Continue to explore evangelism in the early church. Michael Green also notes that people came to Christian faith due to Christian singing. What draws people to Christians and to ask questions? Another reason people came to faith, notes Green, is due to the release from fate. Justin Martyr stated, "We are above Fate, and instead of the demons which deceive, we have learnt one master who does not deceive." He also stated, "Jesus is the Master of the scroll of destiny." View a picture of the Greek Goddess Soteria from a 5th century Roman floor mosaic. Green notes that people came to Christian faith due to moral power as they saw the courage of Christian martyrdom, saw Christians stay behind during the Plague, and saw meaning in the world (schools) with the universal claims of Christianity vs. provincialism and the uniqueness of Jesus. View a picture of 2nd century graffiti. People also came to faith as they saw the relationship of children to parents. Explore the methods of evangelism in the early church including the agora and open forums, household evangelism, curiosity of neighbors, literary evangelism, and late patristic passion dramas.

Bill Welzien, a pastor and evangelist from Key West, Florida shares his evangelism with the class. Welzien notes that our labor in the Lord is never in vain. Consider 2 Timothy 4:2, “ …preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”

Bill Welzien, pastor and evangelist from Key West, Florida continues to address the class about his evangelism. He gives a demonstration of his preaching of the gospel at Mallory Square. Consider the curiosity factor of his presentation. Explore the three fold use of the Law. The first use is that the Law is the basis for a civilized society. The second use is that the Law is a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. The third use is that the Law is a guide to living holy lives. It is important to preach the Law before the Cross. People need to know why they need to be saved. Consider the venue for street preaching. What are strengths and differences between this type of preaching and open air preaching? In Job 9:2 we read, "Truly I know that it is so: But how can a man be in the right before God?" Welzien notes that the easel is an outline, gives people something to look at, and gives a presence after the presentation is done.

Bill Welzien continues to share his evangelism with the class. Consider if there should be dialogue during the presentation. We need to know and work with the Word of God. In Ephesians 2:8-9 we read, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Proverbs 29:25 states, “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” What if there is a profession after the presentation? Welzien shares his evangelism resources.

Bill Welzien’s encourages class discussion about his tabletop evangelism presentation. He notes that with tabletop evangelism rapport must be established. The question of authority is the main sticking point for most people. We must encourage the reading of the Bible. Consider Christ's ascension and Kingship. In 1 Corinthians 2:2 we read, “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” Also, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 states, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures…” What was it like at the beginning of your ministry compared to today? Do you train with churches on this type of evangelism? Consider boldness for evangelism. Welzien notes that sharing the gospel is a privilege and honor. Serving the Lord faithfully today leads to serving the Lord faithfully tomorrow.

Our faith is in what? Consider that active Faith is a faith "toward God" or a "trust", "reliance", allegiance which is worship. Passive faith is a faith that "receives" Christ's atoning work as seen in Romans 3:25 and 1 Corinthians 15:1. Review the gospel diagram again. In 1 Corinthians 3:6 we read, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” Acts 17:27-28 states, “Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being’; as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are indeed his offspring.’”

Continue to hear testimony from Mike Brunjes, a Knox Theological Seminary graduate and church planter. He notes the third core concept is that the image of God in people will express longing for the way things should be. Everyone expresses a view of how the world should be. Listen to questions and answers concerning his ministry. What made you want to plant a church instead of joining a church? Would you say there is a kind of giftedness for church planting? What do you do when your church plant becomes established? Concerning the level of vulnerability, does your disclosure to individuals differ from the disclosure given behind the pulpit? How do you get the word out about a new church plant? What do you do when you get burnt-out? Is there a time when evangelism to a person should stop? Mike points out that we need to think of the church as an essential part of evangelism as well. He elaborates on the topic of street preaching. At what point in the conversation do you transition into spiritual things?

Continue to explore the gospel as good news. Recall Acts 14:15, "Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news: that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them." Also recall 1 Thessalonians 1: 9-10, "For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come." In 1 Corinthians 12:2 we read, "You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led." Also in John 4:23 we read, "But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him." Recall that the gospel is the gospel of God. God's own happiness is a gospel truth as seen in 1 Timothy 1:11, "the gospel of the glory of the blessed God". Next explore the object, means, and result of the gospel. The object of the gospel is the knowledge of God or "active faith". The means of the gospel is Christ’s atoning work or "salvation accomplished", received by faith or "passive faith". The result is union with Christ - justification and sanctification or "salvation applied". There is knowledge of God in Christ, the work of God in Christ or atonement, reception of his work by faith, and reconciliation with God. View a diagram of the fullness of the gospel showing the heart and God in the center, along with justification, the church, adoption, forgiveness, the event of Christ’s coming and sanctification.

Continue to explore the gospel in the New Testament through the Epistles. Ephesians 1:13 states, "... the gospel of your salvation ..." Consider Ephesians 2:17, “And he came and preached the gospel of peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near.” The “gospel of peace" in also used in Ephesians 6:15. We read in 1 Timothy 1:11, “the gospel of the glory of the blessed God” and in 2 Timothy 2:8, “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel…” Consider Revelation 14:6-7. Explore the mystery, timing, and revelation of the gospel. Ephesians 6:19 states, "make known the mystery of the gospel". Consider Ephesians 3 and Galatians 3:8. Also consider Romans 16:25-26, “…my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience of faith…” Consider what the New Testament tells us about obeying the gospel. We read in 2 Thessalonians 1:8, “…inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.” In 1 Peter 4:17 we read, “For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” What does the Gospel mean in the New Testament? The Gospel is news - it is new! It was promised long ago and it has happened in history.

View an illustration called the “Lion’s Den Tract” which states that God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. Consider that the Gospel is rich because our God is rich. What is the Gospel in Acts? It is salvation accomplished and salvation applied. Calvin stated, "All that Christ did is meaningless unless it is applied to me." The resurrection is particularly highlighted in Acts about the Gospel. We read in Romans 1:1–4, “…set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was the seed of David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord...” Consider judgment as an aspect of the Gospel in Acts. Salvation is a bigger concept than justification.

Mike Brunjes, a Knox Theological Seminary graduate and church planter speaks about his experiences in ministry. He notes that a genuine relational interest lets people share with us. There are three core concepts, the first of which is listening to hear. Consider Genesis 3:9, “And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, ‘Where are you?’” Explore Mark 10:46-51, “And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ And Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him.’ And they called the blind man, saying to him, ‘Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.’ And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’” The second in the three core concepts is the genius in our wounds. Consider 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” We also read in Hebrews 4:15, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

How does the New Testament define the term "gospel"? Scot McKnight points out that it is the story of the world and Israel through the "covenant", the story of Jesus and his "kingship". It is a summons to respond, a method of justification or "grace through faith", and a method of persuasion. The gospel in the New Testament is a "gospel of God", "gospel of the Messiah", and a “gospel of the kingdom". It is the gospel of the LORD Jesus who is Messiah, a gospel of fulfilled promises, "the mystery of the gospel", obeying the gospel, and 'living in' and 'walking in' the gospel. Explore the gospel as good news. It is new. What's 'new' about the gospel? It includes Jesus's humanity, the Incarnation, full satisfaction for sin, the Resurrection, and Ascension. It is news also in that it is an historical event - a 'happening'. Most religions are based on "timeless principles". Christianity is falsify-able. The gospel is news that was promised beforehand! What has 'happened' is culmination of what God had been doing with Israel. It is the culmination of what was promised to Adam in his kingship and vice-regency. What Jesus did in Israel is through Israel for the world. Why did God provide salvation through a people? God dignifies human people and makes us a part of his plan. The gospel is good news. It is good in that it results in 'union with Christ' in our justification, sanctification, etc. Union with Christ gets worked out in many different ways. It is worked out in forgiveness of sins as seen in Acts 2:38, 3:19, and 10:43, the gift of the Spirit as seen in Acts 2:38–39, 10:44–47, and 11:16–18, and leads to times of refreshing in Acts 3:19, justification in Acts 13:38, and salvation and peace. The gospel is good firstly as a summons to rejoice, to celebrate, and to find meaning and true fulfillment in God. The gospel is good secondarily because of what is avoided -'hell' and 'judgment'. Explore the gospel as 'victory'. Satan, sin, and death are defeated. The gospel is primarily a 'cosmic' victory and secondarily a 'personal' victory as it is victory for you! Explore Jesus, Israel, and the gospel of the Kingdom. What was Jesus's message of the gospel? The time is now! God is completing the story of Israel! This is seen in the calling of the 12 disciples and in the parables. Jesus also states that he is the authoritative interpreter of the law as seen in the Pharisee arguments. Through his healings, creation is being restored! In feasting with sinners he shows that the kingdom party is here! In his nature miracles and temple cleansing he show that God is returning to Zion! In his judgment on the temple he shows that the end of the old covenant is here! Jesus shows his identity and response in his call to follow him! What are the gospels about? The gospel is the message plus the ACTION of Jesus in his death and resurrection. Israel is fulfilled so that salvation could flow out and Gentiles come in as we read, "salvation is of the Jews". Explore the gospel as the gospel of God. The gospel, at its heart, is an announcement about the true God as opposed to false 'gods'. God’s "timeless" character is shown in his "timely" actions as seen in the psalms and his "marvelous works". The gospel is about worship or 'allegiance'. Consider Acts 14:15, 2 Corinthians 4:4–5, Revelation 14:6–7, and 2 Thessalonians 1:8. We read in 1 Thessalonians 1:9–10, “For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” Consider 1 Corinthians 12:2, John 4:23, and 1 Timothy 1:11.

Continue to explore and answer the question, “What is the Gospel?” Consider the announcement of Jesus. In Matthew 4:23 we read, "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people." Matthew 9:35 tells us, “And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.” In Matthew 24:14 we read, “And the gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.” Consider Mark 1:1, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.” Mark 1:15 tells us, “The time is fulfilled; the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe the gospel!” In Luke 4:43 we read, “But he replied, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent." We also find in Luke 16:16, “The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the gospel of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it.” Consider some observations about Jesus's announcement. Matthew almost exclusively uses the phrase, "the gospel of the kingdom". The phrases used are the "gospel of God", "gospel of the Messiah", and "gospel of the kingdom". Explore the gospel in Acts. In Acts 5:42 we read, “Every day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.” Acts 8:2 states, “But those who were scattered went about preaching the word of the gospel.” In Acts 8:12 we read, “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:35 states, “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.” We also read in Acts 10:36, “He has sent this message to the people of Israel, proclaiming the gospel of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.” Consider Acts 11:20, “But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the gospel of the Lord Jesus.” Explore Acts 13:32–33, Acts 14:15, and Acts 17:7. Acts 17:18 states, “Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also conversed with him. And some said, “What does this babbler wish to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a preacher of foreign divinities”—because he was preaching good news of Jesus and the resurrection.” Consider Acts 20:24, Romans 1:1-5, and Romans 1:16–17. In Romans 2:16 we read, “This will take place on the day when God judges people's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.” Paul states in 1 Corinthians 15:1–5, “Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you which you received, in which you stand . . . or I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.” Paul also states in 2 Corinthians 4:4–5, “…the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord…”

Continue to explore evangelism and the Christian. What is the expectation of every pastor? Consider an "Evangelist" as a category of ministry. In 2 Timothy 4:5 we read, "As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry." Consider evangelism as an expectation of church leadership which includes being "hospitable" as found in 1 Timothy 3:3 and Titus 1:8. The term hospitality or "philoxenia" is the "love of strangers" or outsiders. In 1 Timothy 3:7, we see hospitality is to be "thought well of by outsiders". The expectations of the Christian is to first share in the life within the body. Consider Colossians 3:16 and Ephesians 5:19. To outsiders the Christian is to show hospitality as found in Hebrews 13:16 and to do good to all as found in Galatians 6:10. In Colossians 4:6 we read, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” To the outsider the Christian is also to adorn the teaching of Christ our Savior as found in Titus 2:10. We see in 1 Corinthians 5:10 the Christian is to associate with unbelievers and we see in 1 Corinthians 9:27 they are going to their dinner parties. Consider 1 Peter 3:15. What is the expectation of the local church? We read in 1 Thessalonians 1:8, “For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything.” Paul states in Romans 1:8, "I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world." Consider that part of the expectation of the local church is Kingdom growth, not "sheep stealing"! Explore theses about evangelism including the Importance of evangelism in its proper place, evangelism versus social action, relating everything to evangelism (preparation of evangelism), the differences between evangelism only and discipleship, and evangelizing the right people. Also explore theses about evangelism that go beyond a formulaic gospel, formulaic method and settings of evangelism, and formulaic motivations to evangelize. Explore the awareness of the history of the church and understanding our culture and being practical as starting with the little things. Explore the local church and evangelism as the work of the body and ecumenism.

Recap the definition of evangelism in broad terms as communicating the gospel and in narrow terms as communicating the gospel for gaining new believers. Review the topics of evangelism, missions, church planting, apologetics, social action, the place of evangelism, the individual believer and his commands and expectations, the pastor, evangelist and the local church. What is the gospel? Typical answers are, “the way to go to heaven”, “forgiveness of sins”, “saved from hell”, and ”justification by faith”. Explore the lexical meaning of the term. In the English the term is "godspell" (Anglo-Saxon) or "god" meaning good and "spell" meaning “news” or "glad tidings". In Greek the term is "euangellion" or in Latin, "evangel". The term indicates a good announcement, good news or victory. Explore the Priene Inscription of Caesar Augustus (20 B.C.). “ ... The providence which has ordered the whole of our life, showing concern and zeal, has ordained the most perfect consummation and fulfillment of human life by giving it to Augustus, by filling him with virtue for doing the work of a Protector among men, and by sending in him a Savior for us and those who come after us, to make war to cease, to establish peace and institute harmony everywhere . . . the birthday of the son of God was the beginning of the good news for the whole world that has come to men through him...” The Old Testament term used is בָּשַׂר (basar). The derivation is "to smooth or shine the face". Consider 1 Chronicles 10:9, “And they stripped Saul and took his head and his armor, and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines to carry the good news to their idols and to the people.” 1 Chronicles 16:23–24 states, “Sing to the LORD, all the earth! Proclaim good news of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” Psalm 40:9–10 states, “I have told the glad news of your righteousness in the great congregation; behold, I have not restrained my lips, as you know, O Lord. I have not hidden your deliverance within my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your righteousness!” In Isaiah 40:9–10 we read, “Go on up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news; lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!” Behold, the Lord God comes with might!” Reflect on Isaiah 52:7–8, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings good news of happiness, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’ The voice of your watchmen—they lift up their voice; together they sing for joy; for eye to eye they see the return of the LORD to Zion.” Consider Isaiah 61:1–2, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are in bondage; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God.”

Explore the place of evangelism in the Great Commission. “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Going, therefore, disciple all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you . . .” This verse tells us to disciple all nations "as you are going" in baptizing and teaching. Consider evangelism and the Christian. Is personal evangelism commanded of every Christian? Is personal evangelism expected of every Christian? Is there a gift of evangelism? There is no listed “gift” of evangelism in 1 Corinthians 12: 28–30 or Romans 12: 6–8. Are these lists of gifts exhaustive? In Ephesians 4:11 we find that the church is “gifted” with “evangelists”. We read in Ephesians 4:7-12, “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it says, ‘When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.’ (In saying, ‘He ascended,’ what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ…” In Greek the word for grace is χάρις. An "evangelist" is a "gospelizer". Consider evangelism and the Christian. What is the expectation of every Christian? Consider the ministry of reconciliation as found in 2 Corinthians 5:18. In Ephesians 4:12 we find "the work of ministry". Explore 2 Corinthians 5:17-20, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” The term "every member ministry" reflects the priesthood of all believers. Consider the burdens and expectations and the difference between "radical" and "ordinary". We read in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, so that you may walk properly toward those outside and not be dependent on any one.”

Explore evangelism’s relationship to other actions. Consider missions in which there is cross-cultural evangelism or where the gospel has not yet been in a culture, church planting, apologetics in which questions are answered in the process of evangelism, and social action. In James 1:27 we read, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Consider the place of evangelism. Is Evangelism the only calling of the Christian? Is Evangelism the only calling of the Church? Consider that the Gospel presentation starts with sin and salvation but the Bible starts with creation. We read in Genesis 1:28, “And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Consider Genesis 2:15, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” Greg Beale uses the phrase, "Edenizing the world". Consider the Great Commission, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Going, therefore, disciple all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Explore the broad definition of evangelism or "communicating the gospel". The audience is to believers, unbelievers, and to all. The intent is to teach and invoke faith, praise, and worship. Consider, should sermons be evangelistic? Is worship evangelistic? Is Christian living evangelistic? The answer is “Yes!” because all Christian action is "evangelistic" in this sense. Explore the narrow(er) definition of evangelism or “communicating the gospel with unbelievers for the purpose of gaining faith”. This definition includes a call to repentance and faith. Not all Christian action is “evangelistic” in this sense (and that’s ok!). The Gospel can be consider both by a broad definition and narrow definition. Consider Galatians 2:14, “But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, ‘If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?’”