EVANGELISM AS AN AREA OF MINISTRY IN 2010

We believe that each and every Christian has been given the responsibility of sharing the news of Jesus Christ with as many other people as possible.  (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Romans 1:15-16; Ephesians 3:8-12)  Evangelism is not a responsibility delegated to the shepherds, deacons, or staff.  Evangelism is not just public preaching or teaching.  The tasks associated with evangelism are diverse.  A number of these tasks are described below.

If you can help with any of the programs listed below, please contact the shepherd or deacon responsible for the work (above).  Listed below are a number of ways in which you can help.  These lists are not all-inclusive, but merely suggestions to help as you consider being involved in this work.  If your talents, gifts and abilities prepare you to be involved in Education, we encourage you to do so.

PUBLIC PREACHING AND TEACHING

At this time the Vilonia church has chosen not to support a full-time evangelist.  Consequently, a number of our members handle the public preaching and teaching responsibilities on a shared basis.  Training will be provided for men of all ages who are interested in this activity and opportunities will be provided for them to practice the skills learned during the training.

PERSONAL EVANGELISM TEAMS

During 2010 the Vilonia church will identify teams of Christians who will focus on evangelism through one-to-one or group Bible studies.  Training will be provided and teams will be assigned a mentor.

     HOW CAN YOU HELP?

• By serving as a mentor to work with those new to the practice of personal evangelism

• Volunteer to broaden your horizons by teaching one-to-one or group Bible studies

• Preparation (copying, binding, stapling) materials to be used as part of this ministry

OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES / GOSPEL MEETINGS

Once the new facilities are completed in 2010, the church will host a number of regular outreach opportunities and gospel meetings.  A minimum of two events will be held each year, perhaps more.  The Vilonia church will also participate in an annual area-wide gospel meeting with other churches of Christ in Faulkner, White, and Van Buren counties.

     HOW CAN YOU HELP?

• Assist in preparation for these events (advertising, door-knocking, etc.)

• Host workers for these events in your home

• Provide meals or other support

• Provide  child care

SEEK THE SEEKER

This is, perhaps, the most important aspect of evangelism.  It is also one that should involve every Christian who is a member of the Vilonia church.  The sole purpose of this program is the identification of those friends, neighbors, co-workers, fellow students, or even family members who are seeking Jesus Christ.  A formal program will be initiated in 2010 to help everyone understand how they can participate.  ALL are encouraged to be a part of this effort.

     HOW CAN YOU HELP?

• Providing names and contact information for those acquaintances who are interesting in spiritual things and, most importantly, want to know more about Jesus Christ

• Listing information about the prospects to help those teaching come to a greater level of understanding about the students' needs

NEW CONVERT ORIENTATION

A new program in 2010, the focus of this effort will be to provide new Christians with the foundation required to thrive.  Depending upon the needs of the new convert a number of different subjects may be addressed.  The shepherds will provide direction regarding specific topics for study.

     HOW CAN YOU HELP?

• Teaching the new Christian

• Relating your experiences gained on the journey through life

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