Two weeks ago I shared in the e-bulletin a simple definition of evangelism used by Mack Stiles: Evangelism is teaching the gospel with the aim to persuade. And the Sunday following I briefly outlined three of our 2015 initiatives, namely:
- the Christianity Explored course
- our Introduction to Christian Apologetics course and
- the GO Team (Gospel Outreach Team).
I thought it would be good to give a little more detail about each initiative pertaining to content and objectives. The overall objective is to continue developing faithful disciples who are seeking to glorify God in fulfilling the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment. No program or initiative should ever be seen as a means or end in itself. They are merely tools to serve this primary objective.
In reverse order:
1) GO Team
We aim to meet about once a month on Saturday mornings at the church from 8:00 to 9:00am. Although there will be some specific teaching and training toward better evangelism, the most compelling aspect from my point of view is the development of collegial learning and encouragement. As we share our experiences and witnessing opportunities I know you will be encouraged as you see God at work!
Date and time: First Saturday of each month, 8:00 to 9:00am.
2) Introduction to Christian Apologetics
Apologetics is the defense and proclamation of the hope and claims of our Christian faith. Essentially all of the big questions in life can be distilled to one of the following areas: origin, meaning, morality and destiny – in other words, where did we come from, why are we here, how ought we live, and where are we going. We will focus our teaching and discussion in these four key areas. Today’s Supreme Court decision regarding physician assisted suicide is a reminder to us that our faith has clear answers for the many cultural and ethical challenges we face. Each session will have ample time for interaction and questions.
Date and time: Every Tuesday evening in March, 7:00 to 8:30pm.
3) Christianity Explored
Christianity Explored is an opportunity for us to invite friends and neighbours who are not Christian to explore the most important question: ‘What is life all about?’ Imagine an evening centred around hospitality where one has the chance to hear great video based teaching on topics such as: Who is Jesus, Why did Jesus come, Why did Jesus die, How can God accept us, and What does it mean to follow Jesus, with the opportunity to ask questions in small groups. Perhaps you can think of someone (or many!) already who could benefit from such an evening. Look for a preview trailer this Sunday at church and pray about who you can invite. As we get closer to the course I will be preparing invite cards for you to use.
Date and time: Seven Tuesday evenings starting April 29th, 7:00 to 8:30pm.
As always, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me if you have any questions.
Much love,
Pastor Gary