Taking a Walk Across the Room – Studies in Urban Evangelism
June 1, 2008
Lesson 1: On Walking and Winning
Sunday Adult Bible Class – Summer Lesson Series
West Broad Church of Christ
June 1, 2008
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
(Adapted from materials by Bill Hybels)
Introduction:
Christians are commanded to be evangelists, but this command often elicits a strong sense of nervousness among the faithful. How can this be remedied so that we can be more successful in winning the lost to Jesus?
· The question of urgency;
· Responsibility and repercussions
I. Establishing Evangelism Excess
The field of evangelism is extremely broad. How do we respond to this?
· Internet information;
· Evangelistic methods
Question: What do you suppose is the natural human response to this flood of evangelistic information? It goes without saying that “evangelism excess” has made Christians less than enthusiastic about sharing Jesus. But is there a better way?
II. When We Walk
Question: What is the great truth of the gospel? It is a truth that so many people need to understand and embrace.
· The vehicle for hearing;
· The reality of “walking;”
· An example of “walking”
This all began with a simple walk across the room. Question: How do you respond to this account? Have you ever been in a similar situation?
· “Walking” essentials;
· “Walking” and Jesus
Question: What kind of congregation would West Broad be if each member were strengthened to take a walk across the room? How would that walk impact members’ personal lives? The lives of others? Our city? Do you see yourself taking that “walk?”
Conclusion:
At its core, evangelism involves love of people; a love for their present and potential existence. But folks cannot realize a potential of which they are not aware. And promoting that “awareness” is a natural and divinely instituted component of the Christian faith. This promotion requires no more than a short walk on our part, but those few steps can make an eternity of difference. Think about it, and ask the Father to guide your “steps.”
