Evangelism begins @ HOME !

Having spent 18 months with you I feel a good grasp on things, on people, resources, opportunities, potential in our church community. We’ve checked out our church health for concerns of impeded growth, and, (I know that I am writing to a motivated congregation, to a group of people who are not satisfied with decline) we are taking look into future, recognizing that significant growth is a product of Evangelism.
Yes, for 20 years we have not done it. Yes, we’ve forgotten how to. Since 1996 we enjoyed “satellite events” and renown speakers on the big screen without obligation to do it ourselves, complaining that it does not work ‘cause people are not getting in the water…Well, virtual evangelism produces virtual results. Those events were glimpses on how others do it. Plus, the simple fact that any harvest has 3 stages: sowing, reaping & keeping, was often overlooked. The 2-3 weeks event is just reaping stage. If no sowing is done – all you’ll reap would be “wild oats” and “tears.”
The sowing and cultivating is most intensive and extensive stage of work in evangelism. It is built on relationships. Spirit of prophecy advice stands forever true: “Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, "Follow Me." (Ministry of Healing, 143) We’ll talk about keeping when we are ready to reap, but now I want to set the stage for the basic sowing.
Evangelism begins at home. Early in our heritage history, when we were a fast growing movement, Ellen G. White advised “Let those who desire to work for God begin at home, in their own household, in their own neighborhood, among their own friends. Here they will find a favorable missionary field. This home missionary work is a test, revealing their ability or inability for service in a wider field. (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 428).
With wisdom, caution, and love, they should labor for the salvation of neighbors and friends. There is too distant a feeling manifested. The cross is not laid right hold of, and borne as it should be. All should feel that they are their brother's keeper, that they are in a great degree responsible for the souls of those around them. The brethren err when they leave this work all to the ministers. (Testimonies for the Church, Vol.1, p. 368).
Evangelism is not some visiting preacher speaking to the choir, but each of us bringing those we care for to the feet of Jesus. Are you ready to bring your friends to Christ? When you are – we’ll do Evangelism. For now, let’s begin at home…