A biblical understanding and practice of evangelism is a distinguishing mark of a
healthy church and the great privilege of every Christian on this side of eternity. In
this lesson, Dr. Dever defines what evangelism is and what it is not.
"What is a Healthy Church" Episode 6 - 'Evangelism'
Register for RightNow media account
Video Outline:
A biblical understanding and practice of evangelism can be defined by what it is not.
When you evangelize, you are presenting God’s truth... evangelism is simply telling the good news; it does not include making sure that the other person responds to it correctly
Evangelism is not imposing our beliefs on other people.
Evangelism is not a personal testimony.
Evangelism is not social action.
Evangelism is not apologetics.
Evangelism is not results oriented.
It is important to understand this truth, because a failure to understand it can distract well-meaning churches into pragmatic, results-oriented endeavors and transform pastors into neurotic people-manipulators.
A biblical understanding and practice of evangelism is properly motivated.
Evangelism can be rightly or wrongly motivated.
Evangelism should be done with a desire to be obedient to Christ.
Evangelism should be done with a love for the lost.
Evangelism should be done out of love for God.
A biblical understanding and practice of evangelism is essential for church health.
How many churches today are full of people who have been psychologically pressured in such a manner but not truly converted by the Spirit of God? And what about Christians who have done this kind of evangelism? Have we filled our churches with people who responded when they were eight years old because they sincerely wanted to please Mom and Dad? Who bowed their heads, closed their eyes, and even came down to the front of the church, but who have not truly repented and believed? What have we done to the gospel in America by the way we have evangelized?
Healthy churches are rooted in the God-centered message and motive.
Healthy churches want to put an end to false evangelism.
Healthy churches are committed to sharing the vibrant, living gospel.
Healthy churches understand that God is at work in the gospel.
Discussion Questions
Does anybody have some examples of well intentioned church evangelism campaigns that didn't work out so well (either at this church or another?)
After watching this, what do you think evangelism looks like in a healthy church?
What opportunities do you see in Worthington for Biblical evangelism?
Evangelism is an ongoing attitude, not occasional events or outreach efforts, but what specific things can we do to make sure WCRC is an evangelistic church?
Finish this sentence expressing evangelism: A thriving church... See how we've completed that sentence for WCRC so far, as we've determined that a thriving church will promote expositional preaching, be gospel centered, and conversion minded. This document will grow and develop as we work on this throughout the year.
