Pastor Steve's thoughts

I’ve been reading through the book of Luke with Ryan Welch on Wednesday mornings. It’s been refreshing to read through this gospel. While reading Luke’s gospel, I remembered a principle that Dr. Howard Hendricks emphasized at Dallas Seminary. He would say something like this, “In essence, we usually read the gospels and concentrate on the message of Jesus. Don’t forget to study Jesus’ methods.” So how did Jesus do evangelism? I think it is helpful to observe Christ’s methods and to find timeless principles. Basically, evangelism is telling the good news of Christ to a dying world.

I tried to think about the methods Jesus used. Here are some that I thought of.

Asking Questions: Jesus asked people questions to guide them into truth. In Luke 10, a scribe asked Jesus what it takes to have eternal life. Jesus answered the question by telling the story of the Good Samaritan. Then Jesus asked the simple question, “who acted like a neighbor?” Good questions can help people think through spiritual issues.

Sent Out the 72: In Luke 10, Jesus sent out 72 disciples to preach the good news. Christ was not afraid to delegate.

Trained the 12: Jesus spent time with the disciples so they would be capable of fulfilling the mission. Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Jesus trained the twelve to be witnesses and they spread the good news of Christ. His training method consisted of teachable moments and on the job training.

Performed Miracles: The miracles that Christ performed validated his claim to be the Messiah. His miracles convinced some people of his claims but others rejected him.

Teaching: Jesus was a master story teller and used parables effectively. Matthew 22:33 says, “When the crowds heard him, they were impressed with his teaching.” People enjoyed listening to Him [Mark 12:37 NASB]. If we want people to listen to the gospel then we must present the message in a way that connects. Jesus was able to grab their attention.

Loving Unbelievers: Jesus loved unbelievers and spent time with them. Matthew, the tax collector, threw a party for his unbelieving friends. The purpose of the party was to introduce his friends to Christ. Jesus was criticized by the Pharisees for spending time with sinners.

Gathered Large Crowds: Jesus attracted large numbers of people and they followed him. Christ-like character attracts unbelievers. I see Jesus finding lost people and gathering enormous crowds of unbelievers. He operated on a “one on one basis” and “with the multitude.”

Meeting Needs: Through out the gospels, Jesus met ordinary needs. Obviously the most important need is salvation and Jesus offered forgiveness to those who believed. He had compassion on the large crowd following him and he provided food for them.