Do the work of an evangelist” Paul exhorted Timothy (II Tim. 4:5). Perhaps misgivings about TV evangelism have developed a bias in our minds against this vital aspect of our walk. Yet the millions of North Americans who have never heard the name Christadelphian remain an indication of the limited scope of our outreach programs.
Are we involved?
How often do we read of “contact” days planned by an ecclesia or a group of ecclesias? True, ASK committees have these activities scheduled, but how well are they supported? We know of two within recent years organized by the Mid-Atlantic ASK– Frederick, MD and Staten Island, NY — when the support was a far cry from that given to indoor activities, study days for example.
Is it not time for “contact” days to become an integral part of the regular routine of individual ecclesias? For too long many have treated our preaching with casualness and disinterest. Look at the schedule for a typical “Weekend around the Word.” Where do we find the gospel proclamation? Often on Sunday afternoon as the very last item and that after a sumptuous lunch when half of us fall asleep! If visitors do come, what impression would they have of our commitment to the truth we profess?
The early ecclesia
First century apostolic precedent is instructive. “It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables” (Acts 6:2). So the seven deacons were appointed to supervise the welfare program, leaving the apostles to continue the active preaching campaign.
Even then, at least two of the seven did join in evangelizing — Stephen and Philip. Philip is later called “the evangelist” who had four daughters in the Truth (Acts 21:8-9). Evangelizing clearly included Philip’s family. What of some of our children who have been nurtured at home, at Sunday School and at CYC -are they enthusiastic about embracing the Truth?
Bible school lectures
At many Bible schools, there is a contact evening when a special lecture is scheduled and promotion techniques are employed to attract visitors. What better time to witness for the Truth than when there is a large and diverse membership available for the audience? Perhaps Bible school committees may even consider two such evenings. This would be useful when there is indecision as to what the school should have as an edifying evening program. They could also mobilize the human resources for promotional activities beforehand.
Take initiative
Let us leave our defensive position and take the offensive using the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” in order to carry on.
Jonah, who declared, “I am an Hebrew and I fear the LORD,” went on the defensive only to be corrected by an unpleasant and fearful experience.
Let us plan with our ecclesia, or cluster of ecclesias, for doing the work of evangelists. Let us rally around the ASK committees to support preaching activities. Let us say with the prophet, “LORD, here am I; send me!”
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One