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2025 SERMON _ EVANGELISM IS A TEAM SPORT

 

Title: Evangelism: A Team Sport

Have you ever felt like someone you care about is just too far gone to be reached by Jesus? You’re not alone. Many of us have people in our lives who seem beyond hope, but the good news is that no one is too far for Jesus to save. This is the heart of the message we explored in our recent sermon, and it’s a truth that can transform how we approach evangelism.

Imagine a group of friends so determined to help their paralyzed friend that they literally tore through a roof to get him to Jesus. This story from Mark 2 is a powerful reminder that evangelism is not a solo mission; it’s a team effort. When we work together, we can overcome obstacles and bring people to Jesus, just like those four friends did. So, how can we apply this in our own lives?

The Power of Teamwork in Evangelism

  1. Recognize the Need for a Team: Just like the paralyzed man needed his friends, we all need a team to help us bring others to Jesus. It’s not about doing it all on your own. Think about the people in your life who can join you in this mission. Who can you partner with to reach out to someone who needs Jesus?

  2. Overcome Obstacles Together: The friends in Mark 2 didn’t let a crowded house stop them. They found a way to get their friend to Jesus. What obstacles are you facing in your efforts to share the gospel? Is it fear, doubt, or maybe just not knowing where to start? Remember, you’re not alone. Lean on your team for support and encouragement.

  3. Believe in the Power of Jesus: The friends’ faith was instrumental in their friend’s healing. Do you believe that Jesus can save the people you’re praying for? Sometimes, it’s our faith that helps others find their own. Keep believing, keep praying, and keep bringing your friends to Jesus.

  4. Celebrate Together: When the paralyzed man was healed, everyone praised God. When someone comes to faith, it’s a victory for the whole team. Celebrate those moments and give glory to God for what He’s doing.

Taking the Next Step

So, what’s your next step? Who is your “one” that you’re praying for and reaching out to? How can you involve others in this journey? Maybe it’s inviting a friend to church, starting a prayer group, or simply having a conversation about faith. Remember, you’re part of a team, and together, you can make a difference.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us that no one is too far from your love and grace. Help us to work together as a team to bring others to you. Give us the courage to overcome obstacles and the faith to believe in your power to save. Guide us as we reach out to those who need you, and may we always give you the glory for the lives you transform. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
 
 
Posted by David Hopkins with

2025-01-26 THE ABC's OF OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF EVANGELISM

Overcoming Fear: Embracing Love and Sharing the Gospel

Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear? Maybe it's the fear of flying, speaking in public, or even sharing your faith with someone. You're not alone. Many of us struggle with fear, especially when it comes to evangelism. But what if I told you that fear isn't the real problem? What if the key to overcoming fear lies in love? In this blog post, we'll explore how understanding and embracing God's love can help us conquer fear and boldly share the gospel with others.

Imagine being 100 feet below the ocean's surface, surrounded by the beauty of marine life, only to be gripped by the sudden fear of not being able to breathe. This was my experience while scuba diving, and it taught me a valuable lesson about fear. Just as there are techniques to overcome the fear of diving, the Bible provides us with ways to overcome the fear of sharing our faith. Let's dive into the ABCs of overcoming fear in evangelism.

Acknowledge the Real Problem

The first step in overcoming fear is to acknowledge the real problem. Fear is not the issue; it's a lack of love. As 1 John 4:18 reminds us, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear." When we are filled with God's perfect love, fear loses its grip on us. So, the question is, how is your love for God and others? If fear is holding you back from sharing the gospel, it might be time to examine your love for God and deepen your relationship with Him.

Believe the Gospel of Grace

Next, we need to believe the gospel of grace. 1 John 4:19 tells us, "We love because he first loved us." Our ability to love others and share the gospel is rooted in God's love for us. Reflect on the incredible grace God has shown you through Jesus Christ. Remember that He loved you first, not because of anything you've done, but because of who He is. By focusing on God's grace, you'll find the courage to share His love with others.

Commit to Authentic Obedience

Finally, commit to authentic obedience. 1 John 4:20-21 challenges us to love our brothers and sisters genuinely. If we claim to love God but don't love others, we're missing the mark. True love for God is demonstrated through our love for others, including sharing the gospel with them. Ask yourself, are you willing to let fear keep you from introducing someone to Jesus? Commit to stepping out in faith and sharing the good news, even when it's uncomfortable.

In conclusion, overcoming fear in evangelism is not about eliminating fear altogether but about allowing God's love to drive it out. By acknowledging the real problem, believing in the gospel of grace, and committing to authentic obedience, you can conquer fear and boldly share your faith. So, what will you do this week to let God's love lead you in sharing the gospel? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on what Jesus wants for you and for those around you.

Let's pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect love that casts out fear. Help us to grow in our love for You and others, so that we can boldly share the gospel. Give us the courage to step out in faith and trust in Your grace. May our lives be a reflection of Your love, drawing others to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Posted by David Hopkins with

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