OK, so I'm a pastor. I know what you're thinking -- big holy man, never sins, spiritual giant right? Yes exactly, but that's not the subject of this post.

I'm thinking about the subject of evangelism. (Is that fear creeping up your spine?)

Evangelism in the South is an enigma. When given the encouragement to share the wonders of Jesus with others, we in the Bible belt feel like we're trying to sell ice to Eskimos. Everyone and their dog is a member of the church. (There are 70+ churches in the Leeds/Moody area). So who are we supposed to be telling about Jesus?

Some thoughts:
Tell yourself. It's low-risk and has tremendous benefit! Remind yourself that you are a far greater sinner that you would ever admit, but that God loves those who believe in Jesus far more than you could ever imagine!

Tell other Christians. Pretty high risk here. Remember that the Gospel is not just the way into the kingdom of God, but is the means to live day to day. Do you or the people around you believe that Jesus gave us a second chance to live a good life? If so, then you need to hear and tell the Gospel.

Tell the world. This is tough, or is it?. To function as followers of Jesus, we must believe that God is actually at work revealing Himself to man and that we are participating with Him on His mission. WOW, what a relief! This means that it's not all up to, or about, me! I don't have to manipulate people into the Kingdom!

I am now free. Free to build relationships of love with those around me. Live out the Gospel in front of them, serve them, care for them, and when God opens the door, tell them about Jesus.

So what about the whole churched culture thing? The reality is that our church rolls are full of people who don't know Jesus. Church membership in the South is the cultural norm. We must be bold, move toward these people, and call them to the lives of repentance that should characterize believers. Love them, pray for them, serve them, invite them into our lives and into a living faith with the Savior.

G