Quick Quiz: How does the gospel spread?

Juggler Dave

            a. Evangelistic campaigns

            b. Juggler Dave

            c. Tracts and printed media

            d. Tele-/radio evangelism

            e. Gospel conversations with strangers

            f. Active, credible Christians in relation with others

The truth is, God uses all of these means-and more! But most often, faith builds slowly over several weeks, months, or years when an unbeliever is in relationship with a believer-especially a newer believer. (Verify this at your next gathering.)

The relationship can be built on friendship, similar interests/hobbies, living in the same neighborhood, family connection, or sharing the same work or school world. And the relationship is most spiritually fruitful when it involves an active, credible Christian.

Credible Christianity is how Paul repeatedly challenges believers to live in Titus ("doing what is good"); he wants people of faith to be good people! This is so feasible, and something we can totally encourage our church people to be and do!

Studies show:

• Effective gospel-sharing is more relational than verbal (though "no one comes to Christ through charades"-Pastor Phil Ward, Golden Hills Church, 7/19/15).
• The evangelist does much more listening than talking and vocalizes suggestions more than propositions.
• Christianity is more caught than taught, so a genuine love for Christ, an authentic (growing, but imperfect) faith, and a love for people matter a great deal.
• In relationship, evangelistic conversations usually arise situationally. The message is less often a rehearsed theological method from a book or prepackaged evangelistic formula, though the core of the gospel will be clearly explained over time.