Gospel Meetings

Matt. 28:18-20

Introduction:

1. We have invited John McMath to come and preach a gospel meeting Nov. 7-10

2. He has written us back, telling us what he will preach, with a resume telling us who he is, a promotional picture

3. We are planning special evening services, a noon fellowship on Sunday and a meaninful event.

4. We plan to take brochures advertising this meeting to surrounding homes and invite those who live nearby

Why Are We Doing This?

1. We have a mandate from God—Matt. 28:19,20

2. Evangelism

a. the way to evangelize today is through friendships

b. friendship and hospitality

c. 2 Cor. 5:20-21 the work of an ambassador is to make friends for God

3. Renewal

a. The more we talk to others about Christ, the more it renews our faith and commitment

b. the more committed we are the more we want to talk Jesus

c. Raymond Kelcy: I would rather inspire 500 soul-winners than win 500 souls; for if I inspire 500 others, they win win more than 500 souls

d. the more we tell others about Jesus, the more we are expressing our love for God and thanking Him

How Will We Do This?--evangelism and renewal

1. REAPING requires SOWING

2. 80% of the people who will visit our gospel meeting will come because a friend invited him.

3. Sowing must happen—Rom. 1:16; 1 Pet. 1:23

How Will We View This Effort?

10% proclamation (the part that shows)

45% preparation (essential to reach lost souls)

45% preservation (we must keep the ones we reach)

And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Thy strength to this generation, Thy power to all who are to come. (Psalm 71:18)

Key Components:

1. Prayer

Jn. 15:4 apart from Me, you can do nothing

Our greatest need is prayer; and our greatest opportunity is prayer

prayer is essential to evangelism (Col 4:2-4)

first a door opens, then a heart opens, then heaven opens

2. Leadership

someone has to love someone else enough to lead him to Jesus

today only one in four children is getting a formal spiritual education from week to week.

3. Involvement

We need people who will say, “I will…”

I will invite, I will pray, I will bring someone

I will help teach a lost soul

4. OPERATION ANDREW

WHAT CAN COME FROM THIS GOSPEL MEETING?

1. A plan of action for reaching our friends.

2. The gospel can be preached.

3. Souls can be saved. New Christians in our congregation.

4. We can unite as a family in a common effort.

5. We can find renewal of our spirits—be refreshed by our worship, by hearing the gospel.

6. Personal satisfaction by knowing God has used our prayers and participation to touch the lives of others.

Conclusion:

1. What will you do to help our Gospel Meeting?

2. What will you do to reach a lost soul?

3. Who do you know who needs Jesus?

4. Perhaps you need Jesus in your own life?