Do people know we are here

[Aquila]

I think we're loosing the battle as we focus on mass evangelism. Sure, mass evangelism has it's place. However, we must realize that we're sent one by one into our own everyday routine with the commission to share the gospel. I've had more success with one on one individual evangelism than mass efforts to reach large groups of people. 85% of those who come to church come with a friend or relative. Out of that number the majority who stay establish friendships and deep relationships within the body. We need to get out and befriend people, form relationships, bonds, similar interests, etc. Also we have to be sensitive to the Spirit. God's Spirit hasn't chosen the entire community. Out of the majority that are called only a few are chosen. We have to be sensitive enough to tell when we are dealing with a soul that the Lord is drawing so that we can nurture them to salvation. Winning the lost isn't like spraying machine gun fire into large crowds...it's more like being a sniper. It takes identifying your target, time, preparation, patience, and focus. At least, that's my experience.

Lastly, the fastest growing church movement today is the House Church movement. Interestingly, they have NO programs. They are just a group of Christians who fellowship, study the Bible, and form friendships. I think the people of our communities tire of hearing about new church programs and gimmicks. Most people don't need a program....they need a real good friend who can pray, encourage, not judge, and stand by them even when they're at their worst. Programs are everywhere. Also, I get the sense that people tire of efforts to grow all these mega churches. People want something close to home, intimate, informal, open, welcoming, warm, inviting, safe, and deep. They've seen the glitz and show of large churches on TV. That's why the House Church movement is growing at an unprecedented rate.

We could learn from them...if we humble ourselves.