Friendship Evangelism

I took the Friendship Evangelism class at church today.  It was a good 2 1/2 hours of practical information.  The teacher gave a good quote from Bill Hybels, "Evangelism is introducing someone to the most important person in your life" - what a neat perspective.

Some of the good reminders is that as Christ's followers, we too should desire to carry out His purpose of seeking and saving that which was lost (Luke 19:10).  In the great commission in Matthew 28, the "Go therefore" points to doing it as part of our everyday walk.  The other thing is to remember that we are His ambassadors whether or not we choose to be, so we really should prepare ourselves and ensure that we are good representatives for Him.

Some of my barriers (F-ear, E-xtreme Separation, N-o preparation, C-lock crunch, E-dification overdose, S-tereotypes) to evangelism would include fear b/c of my shy personality, time limitations, and not spending as much time with those who are not yet believers.

I'm reminded to spend more time in intentional prayer and to invest in common ground.  Even the Apostle Paul asked for prayer for the right words to say, and to have boldness and perseverance.  I was also once again reminded that evangelism fits right in with my focus for this year on loving others, for that would include those who are not yet believers also.  The statistic that 70-90% of people come to Christ and to church through the influence of friends and relatives makes a really strong point.  I could even use my home after the remodel as a place from which I can outreach through inviting others over.

And just as all heaven rejoices when the lost are "found", this also fits into finding the joy in living, for joy in life can be increased if I am involved in reaching the lost.

One really interesting chapter in the class was the one on evangelism personalities.   It was so clear that my "GOTO" Evangelism Personality would be "ACADEMIC", and the next would be "SERVANT".   I'm okay with "HOSPITALITY" and "BOTTOM LINE"; but, am weakest in "TESTIMONY" and "CONVERSATIONAL".   This is just are reminder that I need to work on developing my social and conversational skills.   Already, God is starting to work on my intended focus for next year on sharing the goodness of God and thus bringing Him glory and being a witness for Him.