God's word has been compared to a fire: “Is not My word like a fire?” says the LORD, “And like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces" (Jeremiah 23:29 NKJV)? A fire was lit a week ago here at St. Andrews Road! Our hearts burned within us as the Scriptures were opened up, and we were taught the biblical model of evangelism. The real-life conversion accounts we heard were powerful. The soul winning process demonstrated was very practical. The presentation made by our speaker was passionate! Now it is our turn to participate in the mission of the church of Christ.
What is the mission of the church? It is written in Scripture: and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord (Ephesians 3:9-11 NKJV). It was always (eternally) in the mind of God to save us from our sins through Jesus Christ. Now that God has brought it to pass, the Lord wants His church, not a few select people, but His church, those who have been saved, to make known to the world what God has accomplished for us in Christ. In other words, God's plan is for the saved to teach the lost.
Were you convicted like I was of not winning souls for the Lord (cf. Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15,16)? Perhaps we have made excuses to not share the gospel with family, friends, and neighbors. Perhaps we have been afraid and have let many opportunities pass without saying a word about the hope we have within us. Perhaps, dare I say, we have been lukewarm in the mission of saving souls. But as the church in Laodicea was given the opportunity to repent, thanks be to God that He gives us that opportunity to change and be zealous for Him and for souls (Revelation 3:19)!
I truly believe that all of us want souls to be saved. But what might have held us back is that we have never been taught how to do it. Thankfully, we now have a plan to move forward. The process that was introduced to us is based off of the biblical model which looks at how Jesus evangelized. The proof is in the pudding. Over the last several years, churches have baptized thousands by using the process that was introduced last week, and which will be taught over the next several months. There really is no excuse that we have now that the training curriculum and materials are at our fingertips.
So let us arise and go forth to baptize that we might not fossilize. Everyone in the congregation has a vital part in this ministry. Whether it is leading a Bible study, writing a "compassion card," greeting a visitor, or putting together a "new mover basket," everyone is needed. What role or roles will you fill? There are few joys greater than helping someone become a child of God. Please do not deny yourself that privilege, nor the Lord His joy. This is our mission. May we accept it, and to God be the glory. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30).
Brotherly, Jamie
