Evangelism 5 , Set the stage for discipleship
Whether we are evangelizing across the fence in our neighborhood, or we are sharing the Gospel on the other side of the globe from our home, we need to think of a person's acceptance of
Christ, his or her salvation, as the first step in a discipleship process.
I like some of the comments by Dan Glover and Claudia Lavy in their article, Discipleship in the Real World.[1]
Glover and Lavy summarize: "Discipleship is the process whereby someone becomes more like Christ. It encompasses both the entry into the process (salvation) and growth in the process (sanctification)."
Salvation includes teaching about Jesus and his teaching as recorded in Scripture. This teaching, both formal and informal, will include not only the words that are spoken and taught, but also the actions that let people see the image of Christ in the life of the person(s) teaching and discipling.
Sanctification/growth in Christ includes the teaching and modeling of maturing in Christ. It encompasses all aspects of life. Through these discipleship processes, believers can experience spiritual growth in Jesus.
Both components of discipleship depend on the Holy Spirit to teach and guide in the processes of learning and growing.
I love sharing the Gospel, but I know that I may not be the best person to work in evangelism as a part of a mission trip to another country. Much better for this work is a local pastor. Then, if people receive the Lord, at the same time they can start to come into relation with those church leaders from their own community who can give them loving and necessary guidance in their walk with Jesus. The local pastor can invite them into the church community, can visit them in their home, can relate to special needs that accompany life in the community and region, and much more.
If for simple capacity needs in mission trip evangelism (and I am always ready to do so), I find myself sharing the Gospel message with individuals, I want local pastors and/or leaders from the church on hand so that I can introduce them to those who come to Christ. We can celebrate decisions made for Jesus, and very critical connections/bonds can be put into place to love and guide those who come to the Lord. This is critical.
Blessings and thanks,
Larry
[1] Dan Glover and Lavy, Claudia, "Discipleship in the Real World", Clergy Journal, (Jul/Aug2007), Vol. 83 Issue 8, p11-13, 3p; (AN 25809724)
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