should we keep having gospel meetings?. we are living in a time when many congregations are...
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The Challenge of Gospel Meetings In times past, such efforts would draw large crowds Today – religion no longer the focus it once was - people have less free time and more options for that time - The quality of preaching has improved - The availability of sermonsTRANSCRIPT
Should We Keep Having
Gospel Meetings?
We are living in a time when many congregations are rethinking gospel meetingsSome say such efforts are no longer effectiveThat may be so, but is it the gospel meeting or the attitude of the members?Today we will address the effectiveness of gospel meetings
The Challenge of Gospel Meetings
In times past, such efforts would draw large crowdsToday religion no longer the focus it once was- people have less free time and more options for that time- The quality of preaching has improved- The availability of sermons
The Challenge of Gospel Meetings
Considering such thingsMany have abandoned or reduced gospel meetingsTo do so, I believe, is a mistake!Perhaps we can modify certain things, but let us NOT be deceived into thinking there is no benefit to gospel meetings. Consider the following reasons:
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To increase our faithRomans 10:17, So then faith comes by hearing,...Acts 20:32, the word of His grace, which is able to build you upIn this effort, the gospel will be proclaimed. Your faith will NOT increase by avoiding brethren and studying together (Acts 2:42)
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To support the preaching of the gospel Romans 10:13-17, consider the contextIt is easier to preach when you have an audience!Answer honestly! Is preaching needed today? Do we need more or less?What are you doing about it?2 Tim. 4:2-3, not a pseudo-gospel
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To reach the lostRomans 10:8-13, whoever calls on the name of the Lord (cf. Acts 22:16)The gospel is the power of God unto salvation- Romans 1:16Gospel meetings are an opportunity to evangelize to those we influenceMark 16:15, Matt. 28:18-20James 1:22 are we doers?
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To testify to the worldRomans 1:16, are we ashamed of the gospel? The world desperately needs to see us making God a priority in our lives. Does He come before sports, hobbies, other activities?What do our friends and family see as important? 1 Cor. 1:18, 2 Tim. 1:8Ezek. 3:7-9, Heb. 11:7 Noah, etc.Mark 8:38
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To preserve what we haveWe need to be strengthened! For church to be built up we need His word.Eph. 4:11-16, edification! (to build up)What do our friends and family see as important? 2 Tim. 4:2-4, cf. Phil. 3:1
Why Have a Gospel Meeting?
To meet those we supportA benefit here in Bellflower, where we support several preachersPhil. 4:14-17, support means we partake in their work!Knowing them can help us better encourage those works we are part of
What Can I Do for this Effort?
PrepareInvite those you know friends, neighbors, acquaintances, co-workers, family, etc.Pray for the success of this effortArrange to participate as you canPrepare you attitude! Determine to get the most out of this effort.
What Can I Do for this Effort?
Be hereYou will not benefit if you are not here!
What Can I Do for this Effort?
Be enthusiastic Dont dread this work (cf. Mal. 1:7-14)In worship give your best!Welcoming visitorsApplying the lessons
What Can I Do for this Effort?
Follow upIf you have friends come, find out what more you can doDistribute the lessonsContinue to apply what you have learned to make you a better disciple of Christ.Our theme - Learning True Discipleship
Gospel meetings are worthwhile, even today
What will you do to make this effort successful?