The blog will detail... |
Those who taught me: |
Please Share this website: |
|
My appreciation goes to the evangelists
who trained me, (in advice and support) Royce Bell and Ricky Shanks. I want to give credit, where credit is due. God placed these men in my life. Why is evangelism
|
If you know of saints who want
to learn about successful methods of evangelism. Please share this site. Ways to get the word out about this resource: 1. Link this website on your page. 2. Share the evangelism info on this site on...
|
Evangelism blog
2017
Journal Note 1:
I arrived on the 13th (Tuesday) of June 2017. On arrival I drove from one side of San Bernardino to the other side of the valley. From North to South, from East to West. While driving I recorded on my "voice record" app, the high foot traffic area's, the bus stops, the mall, the baseball stadium, colleges, heavy traffic walk ways, the courthouse, the amphitheater (for concerts/music, games, etc). Later I researched the area's and wrote them down for use. Second day I went on "Facebook events" and other online local event sites and placed them in Google Calendar for "Event Evangelism." Where events take place, their is foot traffic. That is a good place to have a back pack with Bible materials and a plan ready. See the side items on the "foot traffic" recordings I did on the first week. Note: I only used two-three locations and rotate them every week. For more useful evangelism preparation, click on these files. Preparation file and finding a location file document.
|
|
Journal Note 2:
Week two, (June 18-24) was used in preparation for evangelism. That week I put together materials. I stuffed/glued materials in Bibles. Materials, that talk about salvation and give a church invite. I also... as I said above, have a approach plan. I have openers/things to say, when coming up to people. The openers are called, "2 Minute Bible/1 Shot approach," (for sharing salvation,) and 1 Shot True Church approach." I also have a Bible study lesson, called "The 3 card plan," I made that teaches salvation and grounds the student, in about an hour. All the above can be found at this Link. As well as other helpful resources.
Sign ups from Journal 3
|
Canopy tent from "street evangelism"
|
Doing street evangelism
|
Journal Note 3:
On the 3rd week of June, (on Tuesday 27th), after having done the ground work in prep, I went down to a poor/homeless street area, off of the streets of Highland and Arrowhead. I started from 9:00 AM and ended at 1:00 PM. I used openers mentioned in Note 2. Shared Bibles. Approached strangers, mostly the homeless. Had a full sheet of people signing up for Bible studies. In San Bernardino, CA, small tents, like the one in the picture, are pitched all over the city. Many of them sale phones or give away gov phones. So a canopy like this, around 70 dollars at Walmart works well for this area. Though at other places, if one has Bibles in a back pack to give out, etc, (with materials) this works too.
I hear street evangelism is hard and scary. I hear you. It was for me too. I have a program I made that helped me. See link. Also, I'd encourage people interested in doing "Street Evangelism," to start where your at. If it is Facebook posting Bible messages start there. Slowly work your way to harder things that may be difficult but is still in your zone of comfort and ability. Example of progression: Facebook posts, then Facebook Gospel Meeting Invites, then in person family and friend Gospel Meeting invites, etc. The key is to begin where your at, do your best and work at progressing as you go along. With time you will be able to do, "Street Evangelism."
Journal Note 4:
2 weeks ago when we did Street Evangelism, on Highland, I got a contact number from Kelley Jansen, for a Bible Study. After she signed up for a Bible Study, Royce Bell (the Elder/Preacher at MT View church of Christ) and I texted her that same day to ask her when would be a good time. She said Monday. On Monday June 26 we, (Royce, his wife, Lee and I), talked about God's love for her. She wanted to keep studying, so we set up a time for the following Monday on July 3rd. We used my 3 card approach, (to download see 1. 2.) to share what the Bible teaches on Salvation.
I have been told by Ricky Shanks to have them write down their salvation experience, before the study. And to have them go into detail on how they were saved. Kelley did, she said she had confessed her sins to God and in this was saved. She then said she was saved through Baptism, when we brought it up, but we pointed out what she had written down. She said, yes I prayed to God for salvation, then waited 3 days to be baptized. Having her sign her salvation experience, made her think and reflect on what had actually "saved" her. I'd encourage you to make a questionnaire sheet for non Christians with the materials you teach. My 3 card approach has such a format. After studying with us she wanted to get her life right with God. Below is a picture of her and Lee, after she decided to be saved, once the study was done. Also Royce video recorded the conversion. What a pleasure and honor to have seen this. https://www.facebook.com/SanBerdooCoC/videos/1493428300721405/ (This link also takes you to MT View church of Christ FB page. At this site you will see other details evangelism tips, accounts, etc).will see other details evangelism tips, accounts, etc) The video is also on youtube.
Journal Note 5:
On Tuesday the 4th on July, I went to Highland and Arrowhead, I got 4 signatures for a Bible Study. Under each signature, I make a profile description, so as to remember what the contacts look like, or for other Bible evangelism workers to recognize them, when meeting for a Bible Study. During the 4th the buses did not transport people, so at this key location, which is near a bus stop, I did not have many interactions, as usual.
Also, due to this holiday, many people were not out in the morning or noon time. But still got 4 sign ups and passed out around 12 English Bibles and 5 Spanish Bibles, (all stuffed with Bible materials).
At Valley College, the following day, July 5th, I went to the "free speech zone." I had signed up and given the college paperwork, to have permission to set up a booth/canopy at the free speech location. If you don't sell anything, then you will qualify. Most colleges will have "free speech zones." It cost nothing.
Just need to find the student center or the main help station and ask permission. Some places require some paperwork, that takes about a minute to fill out. Pretty easy stuff....
So after letting this college know, a few days back, I came, set up my tent canopy and booth (fold up table) today. From 9 AM to 12 PM, I gave out 14 Bibles, had 8 college people sign up for studies, had a 1 hour Bible discussion on baptism and the denominational ideals of Holy Spirit baptism, (she had said she was saved by HS baptism).
All in all a good day. Below is a picture of the booth/canopy and the fold up cart, I got at Walmart. That cart makes a difference in carrying all the materials.
To date here are most of the sign up sheets, since I started this blog, a few weeks ago.
Want to learn how to do contact people. See my document here.
On Tuesday the 4th on July, I went to Highland and Arrowhead, I got 4 signatures for a Bible Study. Under each signature, I make a profile description, so as to remember what the contacts look like, or for other Bible evangelism workers to recognize them, when meeting for a Bible Study. During the 4th the buses did not transport people, so at this key location, which is near a bus stop, I did not have many interactions, as usual.
Also, due to this holiday, many people were not out in the morning or noon time. But still got 4 sign ups and passed out around 12 English Bibles and 5 Spanish Bibles, (all stuffed with Bible materials).
At Valley College, the following day, July 5th, I went to the "free speech zone." I had signed up and given the college paperwork, to have permission to set up a booth/canopy at the free speech location. If you don't sell anything, then you will qualify. Most colleges will have "free speech zones." It cost nothing.
Just need to find the student center or the main help station and ask permission. Some places require some paperwork, that takes about a minute to fill out. Pretty easy stuff....
So after letting this college know, a few days back, I came, set up my tent canopy and booth (fold up table) today. From 9 AM to 12 PM, I gave out 14 Bibles, had 8 college people sign up for studies, had a 1 hour Bible discussion on baptism and the denominational ideals of Holy Spirit baptism, (she had said she was saved by HS baptism).
All in all a good day. Below is a picture of the booth/canopy and the fold up cart, I got at Walmart. That cart makes a difference in carrying all the materials.
To date here are most of the sign up sheets, since I started this blog, a few weeks ago.
Want to learn how to do contact people. See my document here.
|
|
|
What I learned from the month of July: Summary.
Been passing out Bibles and materials, not effective in results, in sharing material in itself. As openings to discussion, as attention getters, especially for beginners who need such tools, it can come in handy.
When I get contact info I text the same day about the content they gave, (content like the time or day they would like to study, personal info they gave, like asking for prayers for their baby or grandma, what we talked about if personal in nature, not doctrinal, that is best for one on one interaction. I also try to give a complement in their interest in spiritual things, I appreciate such interest and want to convey such, it also is a socially connective action to do).
When I text about the study, I make the text personal, yet include the name of the church, to make it professional as well. If I don't hear back in a week, I call to "check up." Not very effective, calling, but it can give results as a last ditch effort to get a study. If I don't hear back. I text them a thank you/goodbye text.
In it I thank them for talking with me, at the place I met them, where they signed up for a study. I say I enjoyed it. I say if they can't get do a study, I understand. Then say goodbye. This is a rejection text. It may work in reminding them if they forgot or making them revisit the study in their minds. If not, it close the door to move on to people who will step up.
If I get a study for a day, I text them early on that day asking if the study is still on. It serves as a reminder. And also let's you know if they are coming or not.
I am going to try a new approach in sign up sheets. Instead of just having name, address, email, phone number a preferred study time, with a blank area that I can write details about the contact as to remember him or her, age, height, sex, appearance, personality, etc. I'll change the above to exclude address, email.
If I got a cell number that should be good enough. If I got a location near the sign up spot in a public place, like Starbucks, Taco Bell or if I am working at a College near the library, or study center, I can have them write in the sheet if that outlined location for the area I am working is good.
If not I can fall back and say, we can always meet at your home instead for a study. Emphasis we. I can study just with them in such social settings, as McDonald's, etc, but if we are in a apartment or home, (being alone with them would not be good, it may make them uncomfortable, as well as other reasons), I'll need to get a extra person to help.
Below is the old version of the sign up sheet. Here is the new version. Got different new versions, (see files below), for different places. These can serve as a demo to download and change according to your own interests. Notice in the files, I also have my church logo it. I designed it online. They got logo sites for that. I made this to make the evangelism work look professional, to give more authority to what I am doing. This can build trust and confidence. I don't have the page number, because that is irrelevant. I will write the date at the top for my personal point of reference.
When I get contact info I text the same day about the content they gave, (content like the time or day they would like to study, personal info they gave, like asking for prayers for their baby or grandma, what we talked about if personal in nature, not doctrinal, that is best for one on one interaction. I also try to give a complement in their interest in spiritual things, I appreciate such interest and want to convey such, it also is a socially connective action to do).
When I text about the study, I make the text personal, yet include the name of the church, to make it professional as well. If I don't hear back in a week, I call to "check up." Not very effective, calling, but it can give results as a last ditch effort to get a study. If I don't hear back. I text them a thank you/goodbye text.
In it I thank them for talking with me, at the place I met them, where they signed up for a study. I say I enjoyed it. I say if they can't get do a study, I understand. Then say goodbye. This is a rejection text. It may work in reminding them if they forgot or making them revisit the study in their minds. If not, it close the door to move on to people who will step up.
If I get a study for a day, I text them early on that day asking if the study is still on. It serves as a reminder. And also let's you know if they are coming or not.
I am going to try a new approach in sign up sheets. Instead of just having name, address, email, phone number a preferred study time, with a blank area that I can write details about the contact as to remember him or her, age, height, sex, appearance, personality, etc. I'll change the above to exclude address, email.
If I got a cell number that should be good enough. If I got a location near the sign up spot in a public place, like Starbucks, Taco Bell or if I am working at a College near the library, or study center, I can have them write in the sheet if that outlined location for the area I am working is good.
If not I can fall back and say, we can always meet at your home instead for a study. Emphasis we. I can study just with them in such social settings, as McDonald's, etc, but if we are in a apartment or home, (being alone with them would not be good, it may make them uncomfortable, as well as other reasons), I'll need to get a extra person to help.
Below is the old version of the sign up sheet. Here is the new version. Got different new versions, (see files below), for different places. These can serve as a demo to download and change according to your own interests. Notice in the files, I also have my church logo it. I designed it online. They got logo sites for that. I made this to make the evangelism work look professional, to give more authority to what I am doing. This can build trust and confidence. I don't have the page number, because that is irrelevant. I will write the date at the top for my personal point of reference.
Demo new version sign up sheets.
| sign_up_for_bible_study_at_cal_state.docx |
| sign_up_for_bible_study_at_highland_and_arrowhead.docx |
| sign_up_for_bible_study_at_valley_college_.docx |
| lighthousefellowship__1_.pdf |
Most of my stuff, I design at Canva design. It's a online design site, it's easy to use and free.
Going to test out neighborhood Bible study evangelism in August for 8 weeks. I'll be using Johnie Edwards Home Bible Study. And the white card from my 3 step card lessons, (see material page on this site for more details on content).
I will be announcing the event weekly on the apartments online event page and will be posting a flyer invite at the 3 apartment mail box rooms at the complex. In 2 months, 8 classes, I'll see how many people come and how many keep coming. I'll invite my small church family as well, as social buffers, don't want 1 person showing up and it's just me, when the person is thinking it's a Bible study in a group setting. I'll detail more of this once the this begins.
I will be announcing the event weekly on the apartments online event page and will be posting a flyer invite at the 3 apartment mail box rooms at the complex. In 2 months, 8 classes, I'll see how many people come and how many keep coming. I'll invite my small church family as well, as social buffers, don't want 1 person showing up and it's just me, when the person is thinking it's a Bible study in a group setting. I'll detail more of this once the this begins.
Statistic's for July: Two 5 hour events, (1 on the street, 1 at a college campus) 5 signatures on average per event. 10 signatures a week. For a months work, 40 signatures on average. I interact with 40-50 people for a 5 hour event. For a week that is 100 people for two events. For a month that is 400 people. For July I got 6 people. One of them got her boyfriend involved in church and Bible study and her babies.
So including the boyfriend that is 7 people. 3 of the contacts fell through, they did not show up for the study. 3 of them did, with boyfriend 4. I texted and called many more who said they would get back with me but never did. They never got back with a confirmed a day and time. Hence new sign up sheet. Out of the 4 people, they are all in studies. 1 has had 6 studies and has been baptized after the initial study. She has been coming to services on Sunday morning. Another had a study, he said he wants to be baptized by his denominational church and wants to keep studying. The couple have had 2 studies so far and are coming to church. For more details see my July report. I hope to build a algorithm, a average statistical monthly record of numbers. This success ratio I will put together by recording successful methods and consistent stats each month.
Final notes for July: When I am with a group. Next to each contact name, the one who interacted with them, writes his or her initials. They are the ones who should visit the contact. Someone else can lead the study or others can come as well, but it's important that the person who met the contact be there. Imagine you signed up for a Bible study with someone and were expecting to see them and a stranger you never met was came instead? Surprises are not a good way to make a first contact feel comfortable. Not unless that person had already met the other individual. Or you have texted to notify that person one of your Bible group friends will be coming (instead).
If the contact, somehow has never seen any of the group but had saw something or heard something that made him/her want to study, then that is fine. If you are going to a Bible study, you can text a location, a description of something they can see to recognize you, like red shirt, cow boy hat, etc. Something you have chosen to wear that is distinctive. If you get a contact, before texting them, put that contacts name, with EV (for evangelism/gives context) in your phone contact directory. I had to learn the hard way. When I got calls and texts, I did not know who it was. Because I did not do this in the beginning it made my work harder. If you call someone to follow up. I'd call during Saturday or in the evenings, that is when most people are available. If your really busy. You can call at the event area, during slow periods of foot traffic. Just don't let that interfere with your traffic outreach at the evangelism spot your at.
So including the boyfriend that is 7 people. 3 of the contacts fell through, they did not show up for the study. 3 of them did, with boyfriend 4. I texted and called many more who said they would get back with me but never did. They never got back with a confirmed a day and time. Hence new sign up sheet. Out of the 4 people, they are all in studies. 1 has had 6 studies and has been baptized after the initial study. She has been coming to services on Sunday morning. Another had a study, he said he wants to be baptized by his denominational church and wants to keep studying. The couple have had 2 studies so far and are coming to church. For more details see my July report. I hope to build a algorithm, a average statistical monthly record of numbers. This success ratio I will put together by recording successful methods and consistent stats each month.
Final notes for July: When I am with a group. Next to each contact name, the one who interacted with them, writes his or her initials. They are the ones who should visit the contact. Someone else can lead the study or others can come as well, but it's important that the person who met the contact be there. Imagine you signed up for a Bible study with someone and were expecting to see them and a stranger you never met was came instead? Surprises are not a good way to make a first contact feel comfortable. Not unless that person had already met the other individual. Or you have texted to notify that person one of your Bible group friends will be coming (instead).
If the contact, somehow has never seen any of the group but had saw something or heard something that made him/her want to study, then that is fine. If you are going to a Bible study, you can text a location, a description of something they can see to recognize you, like red shirt, cow boy hat, etc. Something you have chosen to wear that is distinctive. If you get a contact, before texting them, put that contacts name, with EV (for evangelism/gives context) in your phone contact directory. I had to learn the hard way. When I got calls and texts, I did not know who it was. Because I did not do this in the beginning it made my work harder. If you call someone to follow up. I'd call during Saturday or in the evenings, that is when most people are available. If your really busy. You can call at the event area, during slow periods of foot traffic. Just don't let that interfere with your traffic outreach at the evangelism spot your at.
Journal Report 6:
In the month of August I was sick for a week and a half. During that time I was preparing as best I could for the apartment evangelism work and the creation of the new sign up sheet materials. Everyone must learn their stride and work accordingly. I pushed my limits and suffered for it. But I did learn how far to push. In time I will do more, when my body adapts, as it has done in the past.
I got back on the saddle on August 12th, 2017. Royce Bell, the preacher at the Mt View church of Christ, in San Bernardino CA, has been studying the last few weeks with a young lady named Gabby (in picture above) and her boyfriend, Reuben. She has been coming to church each service, on Sunday's and Wednesday's. I have been picking her up and her boyfriend and their kids. Gabby said she is wanting to grow and do God's work, so she wants to study, go to church and wants to serve in passing out Bibles.
I have no problem with anyone wanting to do that. This bonds her to spiritual things, to the attitude of service and to the church here and helps share the Bible truth. I picked her up and her oldest son, we set up a tent, and she put many preachers to shame, in her hard work and boldness in getting signatures and in passing out Bibles. She did a great job doing street evangelism. This was her first time, and she loved everyone moment of it. She past out Bibles and we got 4 signatures, in the 2 and a half hours we were there, (3 other signatures for just Bibles), many of them she got by herself. I intend to invite the contacts of this day and others to my apartment home Bible study I am going to be doing on the 18th of this coming Friday, with my church family. I will have food, ice cream, prayer requests, Bible study on what non Christians should know and what saints should be reminded of. I'll record how this goes later on.
On this day, when I got home, a friend, FB messaged me about how to study with people. She wanted to know how to address Mormons. For my teaching methods, I will also share what I told her here. When it comes to strong indoctrination and zealous religious evangelists, the same rule for Mormons does apply. I am positive and friendly while doing this. "I instruct Mormons differently then others I deal with. Since they are so indoctrinated and will flee if they think I am coming on to strong in the Bible truths....I let them talk "complement" their point by reading a scripture, and asking them to turn as well, that contradicts their point or a Mormon verse that does the same. When we read it, I go on as before, in talking to them...and let them think about what was said and connect the obvious dots. Or I ask them a question from their texts, like the Book of Mormon saying it's flawed, (1 Nephi 19:6) and ask what that means, then say why does the Bible then say it is perfect? (Proverbs 30:5-6). If they are honest, they will reflect on such points, later on. For people whom I study with, whom are in a student teacher role, me being the teacher I just ask a question, and then have them read the scriptures that answer it. It is not me then saying something but the Bible. I do this same exercise with people I just talk with about the Bible I meet or on the street.
I got back on the saddle on August 12th, 2017. Royce Bell, the preacher at the Mt View church of Christ, in San Bernardino CA, has been studying the last few weeks with a young lady named Gabby (in picture above) and her boyfriend, Reuben. She has been coming to church each service, on Sunday's and Wednesday's. I have been picking her up and her boyfriend and their kids. Gabby said she is wanting to grow and do God's work, so she wants to study, go to church and wants to serve in passing out Bibles.
I have no problem with anyone wanting to do that. This bonds her to spiritual things, to the attitude of service and to the church here and helps share the Bible truth. I picked her up and her oldest son, we set up a tent, and she put many preachers to shame, in her hard work and boldness in getting signatures and in passing out Bibles. She did a great job doing street evangelism. This was her first time, and she loved everyone moment of it. She past out Bibles and we got 4 signatures, in the 2 and a half hours we were there, (3 other signatures for just Bibles), many of them she got by herself. I intend to invite the contacts of this day and others to my apartment home Bible study I am going to be doing on the 18th of this coming Friday, with my church family. I will have food, ice cream, prayer requests, Bible study on what non Christians should know and what saints should be reminded of. I'll record how this goes later on.
On this day, when I got home, a friend, FB messaged me about how to study with people. She wanted to know how to address Mormons. For my teaching methods, I will also share what I told her here. When it comes to strong indoctrination and zealous religious evangelists, the same rule for Mormons does apply. I am positive and friendly while doing this. "I instruct Mormons differently then others I deal with. Since they are so indoctrinated and will flee if they think I am coming on to strong in the Bible truths....I let them talk "complement" their point by reading a scripture, and asking them to turn as well, that contradicts their point or a Mormon verse that does the same. When we read it, I go on as before, in talking to them...and let them think about what was said and connect the obvious dots. Or I ask them a question from their texts, like the Book of Mormon saying it's flawed, (1 Nephi 19:6) and ask what that means, then say why does the Bible then say it is perfect? (Proverbs 30:5-6). If they are honest, they will reflect on such points, later on. For people whom I study with, whom are in a student teacher role, me being the teacher I just ask a question, and then have them read the scriptures that answer it. It is not me then saying something but the Bible. I do this same exercise with people I just talk with about the Bible I meet or on the street.
What I learned from the month of August: Summary. Journal Report 7:
Final Report for the Month of August. Tried out "Homeless evangelism" in June: basically it's holding up a sign that says free Bibles, where pan handlers tend to go to get money hand outs. The idea was, if a car stops, I could also ask them if they'd like to sign up for a Bible study. I also tried this month, "Apartment evangelism." I put up signs/flyers on a bulletin board in the 3 mail box offices, at the apartment. I also posted it in the online website apartment event page. The apartment has 3,000 people. No one showed up. I invited my church, which is very small, they are a great group of people, but they just had other things to do, so they did not come either, except the Preacher and his wife. Apartment evangelism is expensive as well. So it was a flop. But lessons learned. (Hospitality is important, don't want to say otherwise. I'm going to invite folks out to eat after church and try to do once a month pot lucks at my house, instead of weekly Bible studies. I don't want to imply weekly Bible studies don't work, I did such with the older ladies/new converts, for years at the last church I went too, they could not get enough of the classes).
If apartment evangelism was done with was personal invites from me and church members, I think, that would have been different.
Ricky Shanks, one of the best evangelists in the Country made a good point. The more personal and interactive you are with a person, IA through dialogue and social exchange, the more effective the result will be in getting a positive result. Standing in a intercession between a street and a highway, holding up a sign is not personal and socially interactive. Nor is a flyer on a apartment bulletin.
I've done sales and advertisements, in promoting themes and materials, spent 1,000's of dollars in the past, to promote a Gospel Meeting, websites, spiritual materials, a church, etc. If it's not personal and socially interactive, like ads or the above methods mentioned it will not get a effective result. I still wanted to try these out. Though they might still work...for various reasons. I was wrong.
What does work!
Street and College Evangelism:Statistic's.
Stat's for July: (August, though I did do street and campus EV, this month was mainly used to try out apartment evangelism and do other ventures, September and on, I will primarily focus on, college and street EV).
Evangelism tips on contacts. 3-5 hrs in poor- medium class communities, low-medium foot traffic around 5 signatures. High traffic around 10 signatures. 10-20 signatures = 1 contact response. 1-5 contacts responding = 1 follow through. At least early stats. College is a good place, places for example, like area's near the stadium, (for events that take place there, pro hockey, circus, rock concerts, etc). Street areas with good foot traffic, beaches with board walks and walk ways with good traffic, etc. Poor and hurting communities are more responsive then rich communities. But results come in rich communities, it may take more time.
Mistakes I made in August and July are in this video. I wanted to share this, so you don't make the same mistakes with contacts. I'd also include (spiritually) not FB tagging them or having such interactions with them on social networks. The video goes into further detail...on why.
This video is not fancy, made it because I could not sleep. But it does have valuable information. I'd also include, when you go to meet someone in a public place, and they don't announce themselves, if it's just you and someone who who think could be the contact, ask them if they are the people you are to meet, it hurts nothing if your wrong, but if your hunch is right, it is worth checking. Even if your not sure, but it's just you and someone else sitting in the meet up spot, ask.
Remember new converts and contacts sometimes change their phone number due to getting a new phone, breaking their old one, etc. If you don't hear back from someone who you usually do, find another means to contact them. If they have had you over and are comfortable with you, you can even visit them and check up on how they are doing. Keep in mind contacts and new converts are slowly transitioning to the truths you are sharing with them. Don't expect a person to be a perfect saint who is newly saved. It takes time and stages of growth for the worldly attitudes, expectations, mannerism, to fade out. Don't dump everything over their head (in matters of doctrine), at once and hold a expectation of immediate change in all matters of Christian maturity. The Evangelist, Ricky Shanks gave some good advise. Don't mix money with spirituality. The deceitfulness of wealth can choke out the Word, (Mark 4:19-21). If poor people have spiritual interests and you introduce carnal worldly things, like giving them free stuff, money, etc. It can choke out the spiritual desires for the carnal. I lost a contact because for this reason. Down the road, when someone is saved, grounded and they are trying to help themselves, if they need some help, that's fine. But initially, mixing competing worldly interests, like money and possessions, with the Word is not good. Also I noticed this with contacts, if you start offering to help them with physical things, like driving them to the grocery store, getting them food, picking them up from their friends to drop them of at their apartment, etc, they will start to look at you in a worldly sense of "what can this person do for me?" and will lose the spiritual interests and the spiritual perspective they have of you, of what you as a spiritual Bible teacher, represent, in spiritual terms. Like money, you will kill the Word in them, with kindness. Not saying, after some time down the road, when they are saved and grounded, you can't occasionally help with a need. But I am saying when they are weak spiritually and are easily swayed from God and His truth, it's not a great idea to do such actions. It may feel like a way to ingratiate yourself or build ties of friendship and emotional connection to them and in this to further the bonds of future spiritual interaction...but it actually hampers and hurts your connection to them spiritually, more then anything else.
In texts for inviting people to a Bible study or in confirming the study on the day of, be personal and friendly. Don't text something like this. "Hey shoot if we are still on for today, for a study?" Especially with women, being personal matters. Text something for a study day confirmation like this, if it is a sign up the day before, and they had just recently committed, then, "Hey Rebekah, hope your doing good today. Amy and I look forward to talking with you soon." If it was while back, and understandably things could have changed in the lapsing time, then "Hey Rebekah, hope your doing good today. Amy and I look forward to talking with you. If your still coming, let us know and we'll see you soon."
Summary of most of the video content:
1. Don't call contacts, text them, calling puts them on the spot, makes them skidish. Texting allows them to think it over and get back to you when they are ready, after looking at calendar, etc.
2. Before texting I always list contact in address book. I list the contacts name with a EV in front of it. I also list the contact info, (name, phone, address, if I have it, etc), on my PC with description for quick access and storage. I use Excel worksheets. (Download my Excel sheet format demo here).
I record the description and contact details, so when they call or text back, I can know via sign up sheets and logged in details who the contact is. I also use the description details to recognize them when I meet them at the contact met up spot.
I also record personal discussions that bonded them with me and me with them. So I can include, if appropriate in the text. Example: we both lost a friend, I prayed for her son who has cancer, etc.
3. When studying, if possible, when meeting a college girl contact, let them know a female will be with you, (wife, girlfriend, Sister from church). College girls are more comfortable and more likely to follow through if they think another female will be present, especially if they think that female is in a relationship with you. Maybe it's just how I look and act, I look and act young, may not be a problem with older guys, but for me, a female joining me for a study helps. The older the female, the more emotionally confident, mature, in this it should be less likely a problem. I like to study in a area that is public in nature, (Starbucks, Taco Bell, etc) then at a home. For the simple reason, I don't always get someone to come with me to studies. And also for the comfort of the contact, a local social environment, with people around is more acceptable, then one on one studies alone at someone's home.
4. Wear a piece of clothing or something distinct, that you can say you'll have on for the contact to identify you. Like a red shirt.
5. When a contact FB friends you, can add them, but don't let them see most of your posts and content, if you post alot of religious content. It can be to much for them, seeing so many new views and opposing views from what they have been taught. When your with them, as a teacher and pupil dynamic, opening up the Bible and asking what does the Bible say, to their questions, that's one thing, it's personal and your slowly integrating them to the different teachings of the truth. But FB posting information, tagging new contacts, etc Bible materials, is impersonal, it's not a teacher student relationship, it can be to much to digest, if they are getting a ton of data dumped on them. I'd encourage you to filter them in posts and in what they can see. Just check privacy settings to limit what they can see and in the post section, when your about to post material, their are 3 different sections, public, friends, friends except ______. Use the later, so the people you don't want to see content, can't.
6. This maybe obvious...but when someone texts you and does not identify themselves, ask them who they are. I lost a contact who changed their number, because I thought it was someone else. I missed Bible studies and picking them up for church, because I was using their old cell number.
7. Get the church members involved, to practice hospitality, be their friends, help them out. Get the church members to connect them with, include them in worship and spiritual work. Encourage the church members to build connections with them. Don't have them only be strongly connected to you. Don't have them solely depend on you. If they do and you make a mistake, do to oversight, they can fall away if they are only relying on you for spiritual help, friendship, support.
8. Always text back the same day of getting the contact signatures. The longer the time passes the less likely they will get back with you.
9. If a regular Bible study contact or a new convert does not get back with you for a scheduled meeting or does not come to church AND does not return you call or text, immediately visit, to "check up" on them, where they live, to "see if they are alright." If you interact with them and have developed a rapport, then checking up on them makes sense. Sometimes they are struggling with something, or got a new number, etc. If you don't visually talk with them and say hey, they may slip through the cracks.
10. If you get a initial study set up and it goes well, and they agree to study again, but last minute they have something come up and cancel, instead of saying "well does next week work," or "if you want we can do this the same day this coming week," ask if the next day of the canceled day works, if no, ask if a day this week is open. The more time slips by the easier it is for them to slip through the cracks.
_______________________________________________
Besides street evangelism and campus evangelism, door knocking works as well. If I am going to list effective methods. But it takes time and consistent action to get results. Not 1 time a year, for 30 minutes, before a gospel meeting. But these methods require a investment of time and regular work. See this video for a good example of door knocking. It finished a month ago and has had 5 baptisms to date. And my link here for successful door knocking details.
_______________________________________________
Church retention of a new convert: I came from a church that had a 90 percent retention of new converts in Tampa FL. Those I helped convert stayed. Why? It’s about connections. Most had made friends there or had connections through having family ties, of people in the church. People befriended them. Invited them out to eat or over to their homes. People were very friendly and loving. People included them in things, spiritual and social. People invested their time, energy into the new converts. Brought food, wrote, called when sick. Offered to help when they NEEDED it. Did things like potlucks, group Bible studies, spiritual events or social and included the new converts. People wrote, called, checked up on a new convert when they were not at church to make sure they were okay. If a member from church only talks to a new convert or the other saints on Sunday and Wednesday and ignores them the rest of the week, that church will be weak in retaining new converts. Active love is a important component to supporting a new convert and promoting a thriving church. Also a key component to helping a new convert is weekly Bible Studies in grounding materials. These two are essential. If these things are done the likelihood of retention is high. My thinking, is that the longer a new convert attends the high the probably he or she will keep attending. Reasons being, the more they come, the more they will invest in time and energy in coming. Investment equals emotional/mental retention. Also the more they come, the more the new converts will interact with the saints, in connection building, even a church that is poor in this virtue, with enough time, will build small connections. My thinking is that a strong church and even a poor church in connection building, can retain a new convert if the convert stays for 3-6 months. But that is if they stay. Which is not as likely to happen, if grounding and a support structure is not in place. A preacher told me he lost almost all of his new converts. Why? Well, the structure was not in place. A church that is disconnected from others and each other will not thrive. IT IS ALL ABOUT GROUNDING AND RELATIONSHIPS. PROMOTING THE TRUTH IN TEACHING AND TREATING EACH OTHER LIKE FRIENDS IN A FAMILY. Some idea's on how to create a connective church. I'd encourage you to brain storm as well and get others involved in sharing idea's with you as well.
If apartment evangelism was done with was personal invites from me and church members, I think, that would have been different.
Ricky Shanks, one of the best evangelists in the Country made a good point. The more personal and interactive you are with a person, IA through dialogue and social exchange, the more effective the result will be in getting a positive result. Standing in a intercession between a street and a highway, holding up a sign is not personal and socially interactive. Nor is a flyer on a apartment bulletin.
I've done sales and advertisements, in promoting themes and materials, spent 1,000's of dollars in the past, to promote a Gospel Meeting, websites, spiritual materials, a church, etc. If it's not personal and socially interactive, like ads or the above methods mentioned it will not get a effective result. I still wanted to try these out. Though they might still work...for various reasons. I was wrong.
What does work!
Street and College Evangelism:Statistic's.
Stat's for July: (August, though I did do street and campus EV, this month was mainly used to try out apartment evangelism and do other ventures, September and on, I will primarily focus on, college and street EV).
Evangelism tips on contacts. 3-5 hrs in poor- medium class communities, low-medium foot traffic around 5 signatures. High traffic around 10 signatures. 10-20 signatures = 1 contact response. 1-5 contacts responding = 1 follow through. At least early stats. College is a good place, places for example, like area's near the stadium, (for events that take place there, pro hockey, circus, rock concerts, etc). Street areas with good foot traffic, beaches with board walks and walk ways with good traffic, etc. Poor and hurting communities are more responsive then rich communities. But results come in rich communities, it may take more time.
Mistakes I made in August and July are in this video. I wanted to share this, so you don't make the same mistakes with contacts. I'd also include (spiritually) not FB tagging them or having such interactions with them on social networks. The video goes into further detail...on why.
This video is not fancy, made it because I could not sleep. But it does have valuable information. I'd also include, when you go to meet someone in a public place, and they don't announce themselves, if it's just you and someone who who think could be the contact, ask them if they are the people you are to meet, it hurts nothing if your wrong, but if your hunch is right, it is worth checking. Even if your not sure, but it's just you and someone else sitting in the meet up spot, ask.
Remember new converts and contacts sometimes change their phone number due to getting a new phone, breaking their old one, etc. If you don't hear back from someone who you usually do, find another means to contact them. If they have had you over and are comfortable with you, you can even visit them and check up on how they are doing. Keep in mind contacts and new converts are slowly transitioning to the truths you are sharing with them. Don't expect a person to be a perfect saint who is newly saved. It takes time and stages of growth for the worldly attitudes, expectations, mannerism, to fade out. Don't dump everything over their head (in matters of doctrine), at once and hold a expectation of immediate change in all matters of Christian maturity. The Evangelist, Ricky Shanks gave some good advise. Don't mix money with spirituality. The deceitfulness of wealth can choke out the Word, (Mark 4:19-21). If poor people have spiritual interests and you introduce carnal worldly things, like giving them free stuff, money, etc. It can choke out the spiritual desires for the carnal. I lost a contact because for this reason. Down the road, when someone is saved, grounded and they are trying to help themselves, if they need some help, that's fine. But initially, mixing competing worldly interests, like money and possessions, with the Word is not good. Also I noticed this with contacts, if you start offering to help them with physical things, like driving them to the grocery store, getting them food, picking them up from their friends to drop them of at their apartment, etc, they will start to look at you in a worldly sense of "what can this person do for me?" and will lose the spiritual interests and the spiritual perspective they have of you, of what you as a spiritual Bible teacher, represent, in spiritual terms. Like money, you will kill the Word in them, with kindness. Not saying, after some time down the road, when they are saved and grounded, you can't occasionally help with a need. But I am saying when they are weak spiritually and are easily swayed from God and His truth, it's not a great idea to do such actions. It may feel like a way to ingratiate yourself or build ties of friendship and emotional connection to them and in this to further the bonds of future spiritual interaction...but it actually hampers and hurts your connection to them spiritually, more then anything else.
In texts for inviting people to a Bible study or in confirming the study on the day of, be personal and friendly. Don't text something like this. "Hey shoot if we are still on for today, for a study?" Especially with women, being personal matters. Text something for a study day confirmation like this, if it is a sign up the day before, and they had just recently committed, then, "Hey Rebekah, hope your doing good today. Amy and I look forward to talking with you soon." If it was while back, and understandably things could have changed in the lapsing time, then "Hey Rebekah, hope your doing good today. Amy and I look forward to talking with you. If your still coming, let us know and we'll see you soon."
Summary of most of the video content:
1. Don't call contacts, text them, calling puts them on the spot, makes them skidish. Texting allows them to think it over and get back to you when they are ready, after looking at calendar, etc.
2. Before texting I always list contact in address book. I list the contacts name with a EV in front of it. I also list the contact info, (name, phone, address, if I have it, etc), on my PC with description for quick access and storage. I use Excel worksheets. (Download my Excel sheet format demo here).
I record the description and contact details, so when they call or text back, I can know via sign up sheets and logged in details who the contact is. I also use the description details to recognize them when I meet them at the contact met up spot.
I also record personal discussions that bonded them with me and me with them. So I can include, if appropriate in the text. Example: we both lost a friend, I prayed for her son who has cancer, etc.
3. When studying, if possible, when meeting a college girl contact, let them know a female will be with you, (wife, girlfriend, Sister from church). College girls are more comfortable and more likely to follow through if they think another female will be present, especially if they think that female is in a relationship with you. Maybe it's just how I look and act, I look and act young, may not be a problem with older guys, but for me, a female joining me for a study helps. The older the female, the more emotionally confident, mature, in this it should be less likely a problem. I like to study in a area that is public in nature, (Starbucks, Taco Bell, etc) then at a home. For the simple reason, I don't always get someone to come with me to studies. And also for the comfort of the contact, a local social environment, with people around is more acceptable, then one on one studies alone at someone's home.
4. Wear a piece of clothing or something distinct, that you can say you'll have on for the contact to identify you. Like a red shirt.
5. When a contact FB friends you, can add them, but don't let them see most of your posts and content, if you post alot of religious content. It can be to much for them, seeing so many new views and opposing views from what they have been taught. When your with them, as a teacher and pupil dynamic, opening up the Bible and asking what does the Bible say, to their questions, that's one thing, it's personal and your slowly integrating them to the different teachings of the truth. But FB posting information, tagging new contacts, etc Bible materials, is impersonal, it's not a teacher student relationship, it can be to much to digest, if they are getting a ton of data dumped on them. I'd encourage you to filter them in posts and in what they can see. Just check privacy settings to limit what they can see and in the post section, when your about to post material, their are 3 different sections, public, friends, friends except ______. Use the later, so the people you don't want to see content, can't.
6. This maybe obvious...but when someone texts you and does not identify themselves, ask them who they are. I lost a contact who changed their number, because I thought it was someone else. I missed Bible studies and picking them up for church, because I was using their old cell number.
7. Get the church members involved, to practice hospitality, be their friends, help them out. Get the church members to connect them with, include them in worship and spiritual work. Encourage the church members to build connections with them. Don't have them only be strongly connected to you. Don't have them solely depend on you. If they do and you make a mistake, do to oversight, they can fall away if they are only relying on you for spiritual help, friendship, support.
8. Always text back the same day of getting the contact signatures. The longer the time passes the less likely they will get back with you.
9. If a regular Bible study contact or a new convert does not get back with you for a scheduled meeting or does not come to church AND does not return you call or text, immediately visit, to "check up" on them, where they live, to "see if they are alright." If you interact with them and have developed a rapport, then checking up on them makes sense. Sometimes they are struggling with something, or got a new number, etc. If you don't visually talk with them and say hey, they may slip through the cracks.
10. If you get a initial study set up and it goes well, and they agree to study again, but last minute they have something come up and cancel, instead of saying "well does next week work," or "if you want we can do this the same day this coming week," ask if the next day of the canceled day works, if no, ask if a day this week is open. The more time slips by the easier it is for them to slip through the cracks.
_______________________________________________
Besides street evangelism and campus evangelism, door knocking works as well. If I am going to list effective methods. But it takes time and consistent action to get results. Not 1 time a year, for 30 minutes, before a gospel meeting. But these methods require a investment of time and regular work. See this video for a good example of door knocking. It finished a month ago and has had 5 baptisms to date. And my link here for successful door knocking details.
_______________________________________________
Church retention of a new convert: I came from a church that had a 90 percent retention of new converts in Tampa FL. Those I helped convert stayed. Why? It’s about connections. Most had made friends there or had connections through having family ties, of people in the church. People befriended them. Invited them out to eat or over to their homes. People were very friendly and loving. People included them in things, spiritual and social. People invested their time, energy into the new converts. Brought food, wrote, called when sick. Offered to help when they NEEDED it. Did things like potlucks, group Bible studies, spiritual events or social and included the new converts. People wrote, called, checked up on a new convert when they were not at church to make sure they were okay. If a member from church only talks to a new convert or the other saints on Sunday and Wednesday and ignores them the rest of the week, that church will be weak in retaining new converts. Active love is a important component to supporting a new convert and promoting a thriving church. Also a key component to helping a new convert is weekly Bible Studies in grounding materials. These two are essential. If these things are done the likelihood of retention is high. My thinking, is that the longer a new convert attends the high the probably he or she will keep attending. Reasons being, the more they come, the more they will invest in time and energy in coming. Investment equals emotional/mental retention. Also the more they come, the more the new converts will interact with the saints, in connection building, even a church that is poor in this virtue, with enough time, will build small connections. My thinking is that a strong church and even a poor church in connection building, can retain a new convert if the convert stays for 3-6 months. But that is if they stay. Which is not as likely to happen, if grounding and a support structure is not in place. A preacher told me he lost almost all of his new converts. Why? Well, the structure was not in place. A church that is disconnected from others and each other will not thrive. IT IS ALL ABOUT GROUNDING AND RELATIONSHIPS. PROMOTING THE TRUTH IN TEACHING AND TREATING EACH OTHER LIKE FRIENDS IN A FAMILY. Some idea's on how to create a connective church. I'd encourage you to brain storm as well and get others involved in sharing idea's with you as well.
September: Report 8
Dated 9/7/2017. Came to this understanding last month and this month, with the people I came in contact with. People who are wanting to study the Bible and go to church, but are steeped in the world. Sinner's need to repent to be saved in baptism. But we need to understand they may not know the truth concepts from the Bible on right and wrong. The past habits of the world and it's hold may not be a immediate thing to change. It may take time to introduce moral truths and Bible concepts that are necessary for them to make the step for salvation. How can they repent of fornication or drunkenness, if they don't know these things are wrong? Please see my video I just made to further detail this concept.
September: Report 9
Dated 9/15/2017. Want to talk on something I call the "Evangelism Vibe." What is that? Basically when you are so tired, stressed, angry, worn out, mentally, emotionally, physically or spiritually fatigued, to the point that you really don't want to be at a Bible study or a Bible event, or even set one up...this affects setting up a study with a contact, doing a study with a contact, getting results from a Bible event. Why? People can sense your not interested, they can sense rejection. And they will respond in kind. If one must postpone a event or study, do so. But it is much better to do the things to take care of yourself, in a lifestyle balance of work and restful renewal, to prevent such a state to begin with. Recharging is as essential to evangelism, as evangelism itself. Note: you may be alittle tired, worried, stressed, etc, in a study, by itself that is fine. That's not what I am talking about. I am talking about being in such a emotional, mental or spiritual state of fatigue, that you are putting out in body language, emotions, etc, the idea you don't want to set up a Bible study, be there at a Bible study, or do a Bible event. People pick up on rejection. And if you don't want to set up a study with them, be there for a Bible study or a Bible event, they will know. Please see my video for more info on this video.
Getting to know my Mt View family
Hospitality is important for building bonds and creating a sense of family. While at Mt View I tried to have get togethers at my apartment complex. People would play games, bring food, talk and eat. I'd try to make homemade ice-cream. Emphasis on "try." This is a great group of people. Loved being apart of this family.
October: Report 10
10/06/2017 You maybe looking at my stats and be wondering why I don't have more logged in for the months of August, September, October. The reason is three fold.
1. The church foundation needs work and has area's that are weak. It's hard to build up on a spiritual house that has poor structural integrity in certain key areas. It's hard to retain visitors, converts, and guests, in such a place where the support for such people and the members itself is not strongly in place. So I've been divided from evangelism to try to slowly help rebuild certain foundation issues. The idea's mentioned in the past blog to strengthen the church, are some of the things, I'm trying to implement. Also due to this issue in connection to converts, I've been very hands on, each week, (contacting them, driving them to church, including them in my spiritual events, etc), to try to keep them from slipping through the cracks. This has greatly divided my time. More then it should. Know I love my church family, I'm not saying this group is bad, they are dear to my heart, I'm just saying the group needs work. As do we all and as do all churches to some degree or another. With a small church, (of 20) with many sickly and elderly people, it does take more work to foster a supportive environment from church members. Want to note: this church does have many hero's in it. I have seen amazing things here.
2. I got contacts I am taking to church, my car is full, the community is poor, most don't have cars, and I am not getting help in this area from the congregation, (due to the church being small/20 people and many are already picking people up for services). If I am going to save souls or invite people to church and they want to start coming, I need a way to get them there.
I have been working on a solution: I've got a idea that I'll implement next time around, where if someone needs a ride, I'll pay for a Uber, (like a taxi service, but cheap and more reliable), to come by to pick them up and take them to church and back.
3. I do have people helping me from church, Carlos, one of the elders is helping me with Bible studies and in evangelism events. My contacts are helping me pass out Bibles and get signatures, which I love. Also, a member named Rebekiah, who has 3 kids, (that she takes with her), is helping with studies. Rebekiah has been able to help me, sometimes with Bible studies with females. But now has a job. She can still help, but due to this new job, her (appreciated) support is not always consistent or always reliable. Why is this important? Guys are pretty cool about meeting in a public place, with another guy to study the Bible or pray. Woman, on the other hand are not. For females, I've found in my public Bible studies, (at Starbucks, College Library, Taco Bell, etc) if they think a female won't be present they probably won't come, (try to convey a female will be there in my texts). Females respond to that and to the word "group." If you have a female with you, it is a group. If you are a female doing outreach, you'll probably make headway as well with such comfort zone issues.
Anyways, I digress, I had a hard time getting a consistent female to help from church. . And since most of the people who sign up for Bible studies are female, that makes a difference. NOW, if I was married or had a girlfriend who was a willing/reliable worker for God in this area, that would be something else. But I'm not. So this is what I am doing. As silly as this sounds, I outsourced, on my dim, for a female to help me as a "personal assistant" who will "sit in on Bible studies with me." It's not expensive to do this, for 1 hour studies, it can be 10 dollars, and usually I only get 1-2 studies a week, so the cost is not bad. I got alot of interested, when posting this ad at Craigslist.org. The ad goes as follows.
"I set up one on one studies with the community. I meet in public locations like Starbucks and Taco Bell. But I have found with my studies with females, that it helps, comfort wise, to have another female present My church is small and I don't have the help needed. The pay is 10 dollars for a 1 hour study. If someone is a no show, you still will get paid. If your religious or not, it does not matter. If you want to help, just respect the study and the material presented. Keep in mind it might not reflect your own religious beliefs. For studies, you just need to be warm and friendly to the student and follow along. Also arrive a few minutes early. If interested for the job, contact me."
When they call or even in that ad, it may be good to mention they are welcome to bring someone along. I got alot of interest on Craigslist, but very few follow throughs. Even if it's a public location you are inviting someone to, they may not be comfortable going alone. Females are inclined that way. Let them know tactfully, they are welcome to bring someone with them to the interview, like parent, spouse, girlfriend, etc. Also let them know if they should up, they are most likely to be hired. That the interview is just for going over the guidelines and to get a chance to meet in person.
In talking with interviewee's, being social, personal, down to earth helps. As well as making the call a discussion on the phone and not a one way fact sharing dialogue. When a lady calls, I thank them for calling and briefly explain the reason why I need to hire someone and the job. Then ask if they have any questions? I then ask if they have a calendar handy? Then ask if they have a good day to meet...if not they can text me later. After they respond with words or uhhhs, which happens, I either respond to their response statements or fill the uhhhs, with more details on the job. Till they move forward in dialogue.
Personally I like texts better, gives them time to think it through. Though it is less personal. It seems to work better. One can still be personal, friendly in text and social. If one says the location is public, like (Starbucks, Taco Bell, etc) and says "feel free to bring someone with you, if you like, a friend or family member to the interview." That let's her know it is socially public and that she can have some security with a friend present. Woman are somewhat insecure in commitments, but these issues addressed should help.
Another thing to do is to post this ad in a college near by to see if college people are interested. Colleges are a great place for recruiting. One can even set up a booth in the free speech area's to look for a candidate. As with Bible Study sign ups, having a booth to meet people for a job, helps in personal interaction and in getting trust. Which helps with better results. With a small prop up plastic sign (from Staples) or two, three that says "easy job," "good pay" "get hired now," you can grab interest. I have a job sign up hire sheet as well to make it "official." Almost every place has at least one college. See college flyer. After I hire someone, I'd wait a week or two before doing evangelism work there. Let the last event pass by and become settled, before starting outreach work. For personal job promotion as well as online, it is good to have your church and church link. Something that can point to your credibility. Also if it's a online job ad, a professional looking picture of yourself in a professional or social environment, can help with that as well.
In Craigslist ad and in the above college ad, I've shown you, you will see I have a picture of myself. It creates trust, I think, if they can know theirs a real person behind the ad. I also emphasis the need to be mindful of the job, that it might have differing religious views, then theirs. If they still want the job, they must be able to work with this in mind. For Craigslist, they did not have ads for where I live in San Bernardino, CA. But they had places, like Inland, CA, where I could post ads near where I lived. If you live in the middle of no where ville, where they don't have much, then colleges and local area's nearby on Craigslist, are the way to go.
_______________________________________________________________________________
(Note: I have been running through alot of sites. AND running into alot of dead ends. I changed the initial site from Care.com. Greataupair.com and Indeed, a horrible site, to Craigslist.org. Care.com was not flexible in letting me post ads and cost alot. Indeed had people contact me and when I contacted them ...crickets, then Indeed closed my account for no reason. Greataupair got me no results and was expensive. Craigslist cost money but generates alot of interest and is not as expensive as other places I've tried. It is easy to set up an ad and I am getting, texts, emails, calls from interested people. Hired someone to help with getting signatures and got some people interested in the sit in Bible study job).
_________________________________________________________________________________
I will interview the applicants on the list beginning at the top. Till I get a good candidate. Should not be hard to find a suitable helper in this area. Here is my interview sheet and the sheet I will also give to the interviewee, to guide her in what she needs to know and do.
Note: Some territorial denominational people will text or call to gather data about your work. I know it sounds silly, but they did for me. You can spot them by just grilling you in text or in a call. I try to ignore the text people and be polite and nondescript with the callers.
I'd rather not do this. Before moving from FL to CA, I had a lot of female help, from church friends in the area. But if I can pay someone to walk a dog, shovel a ditch, get mail, wash my car, etc, then I don't mind the idea hiring a polite, friendly person to come to a social place, to sit in on my Bible studies.
Besides this, if possible I'd make a team from church or friends from surrounding churches, to help. If you are sick, got church problems to work out, are away on vacation, gospel meeting, swamped with contacts you already made, etc, then your team can fill in and help with studies and new contacts. If none of these options are available, if theirs faithful churches near by that has preachers, I'd contact them and see if they are interested in helping when you need it. I'd arrange a social meeting with them first, at a restaurant, to meet them, to get a feel for the men to see if they are reliable. Then later contact them down the road, with the invite.
1. The church foundation needs work and has area's that are weak. It's hard to build up on a spiritual house that has poor structural integrity in certain key areas. It's hard to retain visitors, converts, and guests, in such a place where the support for such people and the members itself is not strongly in place. So I've been divided from evangelism to try to slowly help rebuild certain foundation issues. The idea's mentioned in the past blog to strengthen the church, are some of the things, I'm trying to implement. Also due to this issue in connection to converts, I've been very hands on, each week, (contacting them, driving them to church, including them in my spiritual events, etc), to try to keep them from slipping through the cracks. This has greatly divided my time. More then it should. Know I love my church family, I'm not saying this group is bad, they are dear to my heart, I'm just saying the group needs work. As do we all and as do all churches to some degree or another. With a small church, (of 20) with many sickly and elderly people, it does take more work to foster a supportive environment from church members. Want to note: this church does have many hero's in it. I have seen amazing things here.
2. I got contacts I am taking to church, my car is full, the community is poor, most don't have cars, and I am not getting help in this area from the congregation, (due to the church being small/20 people and many are already picking people up for services). If I am going to save souls or invite people to church and they want to start coming, I need a way to get them there.
I have been working on a solution: I've got a idea that I'll implement next time around, where if someone needs a ride, I'll pay for a Uber, (like a taxi service, but cheap and more reliable), to come by to pick them up and take them to church and back.
3. I do have people helping me from church, Carlos, one of the elders is helping me with Bible studies and in evangelism events. My contacts are helping me pass out Bibles and get signatures, which I love. Also, a member named Rebekiah, who has 3 kids, (that she takes with her), is helping with studies. Rebekiah has been able to help me, sometimes with Bible studies with females. But now has a job. She can still help, but due to this new job, her (appreciated) support is not always consistent or always reliable. Why is this important? Guys are pretty cool about meeting in a public place, with another guy to study the Bible or pray. Woman, on the other hand are not. For females, I've found in my public Bible studies, (at Starbucks, College Library, Taco Bell, etc) if they think a female won't be present they probably won't come, (try to convey a female will be there in my texts). Females respond to that and to the word "group." If you have a female with you, it is a group. If you are a female doing outreach, you'll probably make headway as well with such comfort zone issues.
Anyways, I digress, I had a hard time getting a consistent female to help from church. . And since most of the people who sign up for Bible studies are female, that makes a difference. NOW, if I was married or had a girlfriend who was a willing/reliable worker for God in this area, that would be something else. But I'm not. So this is what I am doing. As silly as this sounds, I outsourced, on my dim, for a female to help me as a "personal assistant" who will "sit in on Bible studies with me." It's not expensive to do this, for 1 hour studies, it can be 10 dollars, and usually I only get 1-2 studies a week, so the cost is not bad. I got alot of interested, when posting this ad at Craigslist.org. The ad goes as follows.
"I set up one on one studies with the community. I meet in public locations like Starbucks and Taco Bell. But I have found with my studies with females, that it helps, comfort wise, to have another female present My church is small and I don't have the help needed. The pay is 10 dollars for a 1 hour study. If someone is a no show, you still will get paid. If your religious or not, it does not matter. If you want to help, just respect the study and the material presented. Keep in mind it might not reflect your own religious beliefs. For studies, you just need to be warm and friendly to the student and follow along. Also arrive a few minutes early. If interested for the job, contact me."
When they call or even in that ad, it may be good to mention they are welcome to bring someone along. I got alot of interest on Craigslist, but very few follow throughs. Even if it's a public location you are inviting someone to, they may not be comfortable going alone. Females are inclined that way. Let them know tactfully, they are welcome to bring someone with them to the interview, like parent, spouse, girlfriend, etc. Also let them know if they should up, they are most likely to be hired. That the interview is just for going over the guidelines and to get a chance to meet in person.
In talking with interviewee's, being social, personal, down to earth helps. As well as making the call a discussion on the phone and not a one way fact sharing dialogue. When a lady calls, I thank them for calling and briefly explain the reason why I need to hire someone and the job. Then ask if they have any questions? I then ask if they have a calendar handy? Then ask if they have a good day to meet...if not they can text me later. After they respond with words or uhhhs, which happens, I either respond to their response statements or fill the uhhhs, with more details on the job. Till they move forward in dialogue.
Personally I like texts better, gives them time to think it through. Though it is less personal. It seems to work better. One can still be personal, friendly in text and social. If one says the location is public, like (Starbucks, Taco Bell, etc) and says "feel free to bring someone with you, if you like, a friend or family member to the interview." That let's her know it is socially public and that she can have some security with a friend present. Woman are somewhat insecure in commitments, but these issues addressed should help.
Another thing to do is to post this ad in a college near by to see if college people are interested. Colleges are a great place for recruiting. One can even set up a booth in the free speech area's to look for a candidate. As with Bible Study sign ups, having a booth to meet people for a job, helps in personal interaction and in getting trust. Which helps with better results. With a small prop up plastic sign (from Staples) or two, three that says "easy job," "good pay" "get hired now," you can grab interest. I have a job sign up hire sheet as well to make it "official." Almost every place has at least one college. See college flyer. After I hire someone, I'd wait a week or two before doing evangelism work there. Let the last event pass by and become settled, before starting outreach work. For personal job promotion as well as online, it is good to have your church and church link. Something that can point to your credibility. Also if it's a online job ad, a professional looking picture of yourself in a professional or social environment, can help with that as well.
In Craigslist ad and in the above college ad, I've shown you, you will see I have a picture of myself. It creates trust, I think, if they can know theirs a real person behind the ad. I also emphasis the need to be mindful of the job, that it might have differing religious views, then theirs. If they still want the job, they must be able to work with this in mind. For Craigslist, they did not have ads for where I live in San Bernardino, CA. But they had places, like Inland, CA, where I could post ads near where I lived. If you live in the middle of no where ville, where they don't have much, then colleges and local area's nearby on Craigslist, are the way to go.
_______________________________________________________________________________
(Note: I have been running through alot of sites. AND running into alot of dead ends. I changed the initial site from Care.com. Greataupair.com and Indeed, a horrible site, to Craigslist.org. Care.com was not flexible in letting me post ads and cost alot. Indeed had people contact me and when I contacted them ...crickets, then Indeed closed my account for no reason. Greataupair got me no results and was expensive. Craigslist cost money but generates alot of interest and is not as expensive as other places I've tried. It is easy to set up an ad and I am getting, texts, emails, calls from interested people. Hired someone to help with getting signatures and got some people interested in the sit in Bible study job).
_________________________________________________________________________________
I will interview the applicants on the list beginning at the top. Till I get a good candidate. Should not be hard to find a suitable helper in this area. Here is my interview sheet and the sheet I will also give to the interviewee, to guide her in what she needs to know and do.
Note: Some territorial denominational people will text or call to gather data about your work. I know it sounds silly, but they did for me. You can spot them by just grilling you in text or in a call. I try to ignore the text people and be polite and nondescript with the callers.
I'd rather not do this. Before moving from FL to CA, I had a lot of female help, from church friends in the area. But if I can pay someone to walk a dog, shovel a ditch, get mail, wash my car, etc, then I don't mind the idea hiring a polite, friendly person to come to a social place, to sit in on my Bible studies.
Besides this, if possible I'd make a team from church or friends from surrounding churches, to help. If you are sick, got church problems to work out, are away on vacation, gospel meeting, swamped with contacts you already made, etc, then your team can fill in and help with studies and new contacts. If none of these options are available, if theirs faithful churches near by that has preachers, I'd contact them and see if they are interested in helping when you need it. I'd arrange a social meeting with them first, at a restaurant, to meet them, to get a feel for the men to see if they are reliable. Then later contact them down the road, with the invite.
Another point I should detail on my lack of stat's for at least two, (August, September) of these months, is this, I had worked myself in July to a point of poor health. It took two months to get better. I was working 15 hr days and 70 hr weeks. Loved every moment of it, but the stress with the work, affected my health's constitution. I'm a hard worker, it's hard to take a day off, but since then I take Saturdays off, I take time to work out, I work less hours a day, I take a low key work week each month, and take Friday evenings off as well. I hated going at half mass, like a broken ship without a sail, due to burn out.
Algorithm.
I want months to establish the Algorithm of evangelism, (success stats). But I do want to share what I have learned so far. And despite wanting to build on the stats with more months of work, I am pretty confident in the stats shown below.
If I work on campus or on the street, (with canopy and fold up table, Bibles) for 3-5 hrs, in medium traffic area, I tend to get around 5 signatures. During summer college, it's medium traffic, during actual semester classes it's high traffic. During high traffic I get 10 signatures for a Bible study in 3-5 hrs. When I get 20 signatures and text 20 people, personally/with warmth, to meet up with "us" (me and someone else, preferable of the opposite sex, if texting a female,) in a public/social place, for a study, I tend to get a text back of interest. When 5 people text back to convey interest, 1-2 follow through. When we meet up for a study, when I use my Blue card material, (see my resource link) I tend to have, out of 5 people, 2-3 people who have positive results.
Past experience and present: converts tend to stay 20-50 percent of the time if they are just (each weekly) grounded in the Word, (I use Johnie Edwards Home Bible Study). If they are grounded, AND are spiritually supported by the members, (in hospitality, inviting them out to eat, in inclusion of group activities, in spiritual mentor-ship, in having them join in spiritual works of service, in worship or in outdoor activities like visitation, etc), in primarily being there for them spiritually and building relationships with them...then the likelihood of keeping them increases. Coupled with weekly grounding, of necessary Bible content, (Bible authority, true church/worship, moral living), the odds rise to 70-90 percent retention. Love and truth should be the ties that bind. Truth to help them grow and love to help them see God's Bible truth in action.
If I work on campus or on the street, (with canopy and fold up table, Bibles) for 3-5 hrs, in medium traffic area, I tend to get around 5 signatures. During summer college, it's medium traffic, during actual semester classes it's high traffic. During high traffic I get 10 signatures for a Bible study in 3-5 hrs. When I get 20 signatures and text 20 people, personally/with warmth, to meet up with "us" (me and someone else, preferable of the opposite sex, if texting a female,) in a public/social place, for a study, I tend to get a text back of interest. When 5 people text back to convey interest, 1-2 follow through. When we meet up for a study, when I use my Blue card material, (see my resource link) I tend to have, out of 5 people, 2-3 people who have positive results.
Past experience and present: converts tend to stay 20-50 percent of the time if they are just (each weekly) grounded in the Word, (I use Johnie Edwards Home Bible Study). If they are grounded, AND are spiritually supported by the members, (in hospitality, inviting them out to eat, in inclusion of group activities, in spiritual mentor-ship, in having them join in spiritual works of service, in worship or in outdoor activities like visitation, etc), in primarily being there for them spiritually and building relationships with them...then the likelihood of keeping them increases. Coupled with weekly grounding, of necessary Bible content, (Bible authority, true church/worship, moral living), the odds rise to 70-90 percent retention. Love and truth should be the ties that bind. Truth to help them grow and love to help them see God's Bible truth in action.
November: Report 11
11/27/2017 Things are coming together in evangelism prep. Uber network is getting set up, going to get a personal assistant, (see previous posts for context,) need to do a few more things.
I need to focus on contact retention.
_____________________________________________________________________
Note: Canceled this idea, but keeping it up, because it is a good one: I will invite the church to a potluck each month. Their will be food, (everyone will be encouraged to bring something,) talk and some games, people can play, like Foosball, Jango, etc while eating together. While eating I'll have people sign cards for people on my list, those who are sick, elderly, discouraged, shut in, those who have missed a service, even if it was for being out of town, (Its important to know they are missed). For evangelism, we will sign cards for new converts, contacts, visitors. I will pass out a sign up sheet and ask for volunteers to take just one of the new converts, contacts or visitors out to eat, (does not have to be fancy, McDonald's works), once a month. And will first explain why this is important. Building bonds, making them feel connected, being a support for them and encouragement, making them feel like people care about them, which will help them to want to come back to church.
_______________________________________________________________________
(Time passed)....Scratch that. Love my church. But it is small...about 10 faithful members. Alot of sick and elderly people. I'll focus on doing what I can myself. I'll do what I have been doing to keep contacts coming. Its been 4 months and the stuff I do seems to work here in CA. And certain things have worked in FL, before I had moved up here.
Which is....
A. Weekly Bible Study (for grounding, spiritually strengthening and emotionally bonding) Included in this down the road in studies (or even immediately), hospitality at home with Bible study.
B. Write/text/call to check up on the contacts when sick or when they miss church. If they don't respond and you have a comfortable connection with them, drop by their place to check up on them and "see how they are." I see if I can do anything to help, if they are ill or if they are missing church, I let them know they are missed. If they have any spiritual needs they tell me of, I try to help them.
C. Invite them out to eat after church. To get to know them better. Building bonds is important.
D. I include them in spiritual activities. Like passing out Bibles with me, getting signatures for studies. If new converts, of course they should be included in acts of worship and church activities.
E. If they don't have a car and need a ride and you have room, pick them up. It will go along way to building bonds and will let them know you care.
Note: from my experience, if you build bonds with them and help them, but do not ground them or include them in spiritual work. You will have made friends, but in the long run they will not remain faithful, for "they have no root." Give them a strong foundation in the Word. Don't get in the cycle of trying to maintain a friendship to keep them going to church. This won't work. And if that is your main priority, you will tend to do what it takes to keep the bond, even if it means giving them things, doing things for them, that will make them co dependent on you, instead of the message of God and His teaching.
____
November: Report 12
Evangelism campaign.
I'm not getting alot of help in the fields of the Lord. My contacts help me get Bible study signatures. They are reliable. But if I can establish a better support system, I can double (or if wished triple) my signatures a month.
Craigslist.org, has people willing to do "labor," "Customer service" and "non profit" jobs. I can train such people, in what to say, (in invites and in replying to questions, here are some of the questions I get, 1. where is the study, 2. when is the study, 3. what is the content, 4. who comes to the study. 5. And Bible questions or statements. Which for this I will have them say to questions... "Sign up for the study and we'll have the group answer them.")
I can interview them and stay with them initially on the outreach site, to see how they approach others. In being on site while the work is being done, I will see the attitude that person has and how they act towards others in being, sincere, warm, friendly, polite, etc. And I can work with them so they can see how it is done in my example. If they don't make the cut, I'll keep going till I find a good candidate.
Then once this one time on site training is done, (which still will generate signatures,) I can officially move forward and set up a evangelism booth site on campus and have someone work for 3 hrs.
For churches who have many willing and able teachers and who have members who can afford to spend more, they can increase the staff and get more signatures a week. They can hire another staff member to come by and work another 3 hrs at that location, after the first staff member quiets. When they get more then one vetted staff member, they can leave and come back after 3 hrs, get the signatures, pay and talk with the staff worker and wait for the next one to arrive. When the next one arrives. They can leave and come back in 3 hrs. Get his signatures, repeat, etc. After that second staff member is done, they can repeat it a their time if wished. And can do events more then once a week. Two days doing such work would be powerful.
(NOW PLEASE UNDERSTAND, I PUT THIS EVANGELISM CAMPAIGN INTO PRACTICE BECAUSE I WANT TO GENERATE SIGNATURES AND NEED HELP. MY CHURCH IS SMALL AND THIS SUPPORT IS NEEDED FOR ME. DURING THIS SEASON OF WORK ROYCE BELL COULD NOT HELP ME DUE TO TRYING TO SALE THE CHURCH BUILDING, DUE TO THE LOCATION BEING IN A VERY VIOLENT PLACE. ROYCE IS ONE OF THE BEST OUT THERE IN STREET EVANGELISM. SO LET ME GIVE CONTEXT.
YET IF A CHURCH IS DOING THIS TYPE OF CAMPAIGN.... WHEN THEY HAVE THE MAN POWER WITHIN THE CONGREGATION....WELL...THIS IS NOT A CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT IDLENESS AND LAZINESS IN THE CONGREGATION. GOD WANTS EVANGELISM TO BE A CHURCH WORK AND FOR CHRISTIANS TO STEP UP. THE REASON WE ARE DYING OUT IS BECAUSE OF CHRISTIAN INDIFFERENCE IN THIS AREA. This site is to teach Christians how to do outreach and to teach the new converts how to serve others in this venue as well. But if a preacher, christian needs help, because a church is small or indifferent and he can't or won't get help, then this evangelism campaign is a good model to implement.)
For me in this work, I will be there initially after vetting the staff, to set up the tent and materials and allow myself to focus on other work activities. 3 hrs is exhausting work in evangelism outreach. It's hard to do two 3 hr sessions a week. I have done it, but it takes a toll. When I did such, I had to slow things down within around a month and a half. Had to much going on with studies and contacts. I like the idea of doing an evangelism campaign. I can get the same results without burn out. And having 10 more signatures a week, for 3 hrs of work, will double what I am getting now. I can get staff help and can spent the time they are working, in getting other activities accomplished. I still intent to get signatures in outreach work, but the help will make a difference.
I will be slowing down the work with the "evangelism campaign" once a week or even once a month, if I am busy, with contacts and don't need any more studies for awhile. But it's a great idea for a jump start and can really help in getting contacts generated and in making head way. When things get to busy, since it's just me, primarily teaching, then I can slow things down.
For what I get done in a month, with 1 staff member helping, I can get two months worth of work done, in generating signatures and contacts. For the cost of 40 dollars a week, it is worth it. The potential results is worth it. The more signatures, the more possible Bible studies, the more Bible studies, the more possible conversions, the more conversions, the more potential church growth. May ask why 20 dollars for 5 signatures. Because it is hard work and the cost is fitting for the work being done.
I noticed that when I did two 3 hr events a week, for a month, I had to slow things down somewhat. I had more studies and contacts then I could handle alone. But for me doing such work alone was also exhausting. And is hard for a person by himself with all the other things evangelism entails to physically in health maintain. The evangelism model of getting staff can be applied to door knocking and other evangelism pursuits as well.
For financial reasons I will ask the staff member to stop when he get's to 10 signatures. If I get any complaints of bribery or intimation from people, that staff member is gone. If a large portion of the numbers are false they are gone. But I am getting them from a reputable site and will amply vet them, so that should not be a problem. I can afford to pay 40 dollars a week for doubling my signature quota. Which will mean more Bible studies monthly.
At Craigslist.org, this is the ad I posted. "The job is simple. I'll be there to work you through it the first and second time. I get Bible study class signatures at colleges, (Cal State and Valley College) 3 hrs a week. I tend to get 5-10 signatures. I can pay 20 dollars per 5 signatures. 10 signatures, (40 dollars) is the limit per weekly event. My church is small and I don't have the help. I need someone who is polite, respectful, trustworthy, honest, warm, friendly, and personal. The first 1-2 events I'm with you, are trial periods. Anyone can do this, but want to make sure the right person is doing this work. I will accept many people, till I find the right one. I am not that picky, just want to make sure heckling, rude behavior, etc, does not take place. And that the person is respectful of the religious work and the church group behind this work."
Here is my interview sheet I will use for interviewing. It will also have info on the sheet, that I will give to the trainee.
Now I will implement this evangelism campaign model in December and January. If it is a flop, which I can't foresee how, then I will make that clear here.
I'll write more on these topic's later down the road...
__________
November: Report 13
For December, I plan on adding to my Bible sign up sheets a "free Uber car ride to church," invite. See updated Bible sign up sheets. Cal State. Valley College. Arrowhead/street evangelism. And maybe an individual sign up sheet for when I do outreach for college age people. Alot of them don't have cars and if they want to worship, this provides them a solution to attend church. May build a bond to further interact with them as well. I am checking out uber as a potential avenue for this. The church building is just 5-7 minutes away by car. So it should not cost to much from my pocket. Just a few dollars. And would be well worth it, if college people start attending with us. I know I got alot of pots on the fire. I'll go further into this if it pans out.
Pans out...new recording 11/28/2017
Talked with a Uber driver to deal with two concerns I had. If I had someone come by and pick a contact up, what would happen if they asked to go somewhere else, especially far away, on my dime? He said the destinations are fixed by the account holder of the person setting up the transportation. Which was a relief. Second concern was, what if the contact did not show up. The Uber guys said he'd wait a few minutes and I'd get charged a few dollars as a waiting fee. Which is not bad. But.... I will also text the contact the day of to get a confirmation, before sending Uber over. I ask (text them) to come out (5 minutes) early before Uber arrives on the given time and stay out (5 minutes) past the pick up time, in case Uber is late. Where I am at, the locations are pretty near each other, and I only allow pick up in the San Bernardino area where I live, so this time window works.
It's simple, on my Bible sign up sheet, and maybe other materials I will ask for their number. Once I get it, I will text them and mention them signing up and give them the times/days of worship. I will ask if they want to go to church on a set time, to first give a days notice. Like for Sunday worship to text me on Saturday. And the time they would like to come over. I will also ask for them to text me the street area where they can meet up with the Uber driver, so I can give that address to him. Once church is over, I will have the Uber drive come by and pick them up and take them home. For Uber details: Uber website. Uber app.
Side note: if your on Facebook and want to talk about COC evangelism, see this page forum.
I need to focus on contact retention.
_____________________________________________________________________
Note: Canceled this idea, but keeping it up, because it is a good one: I will invite the church to a potluck each month. Their will be food, (everyone will be encouraged to bring something,) talk and some games, people can play, like Foosball, Jango, etc while eating together. While eating I'll have people sign cards for people on my list, those who are sick, elderly, discouraged, shut in, those who have missed a service, even if it was for being out of town, (Its important to know they are missed). For evangelism, we will sign cards for new converts, contacts, visitors. I will pass out a sign up sheet and ask for volunteers to take just one of the new converts, contacts or visitors out to eat, (does not have to be fancy, McDonald's works), once a month. And will first explain why this is important. Building bonds, making them feel connected, being a support for them and encouragement, making them feel like people care about them, which will help them to want to come back to church.
_______________________________________________________________________
(Time passed)....Scratch that. Love my church. But it is small...about 10 faithful members. Alot of sick and elderly people. I'll focus on doing what I can myself. I'll do what I have been doing to keep contacts coming. Its been 4 months and the stuff I do seems to work here in CA. And certain things have worked in FL, before I had moved up here.
Which is....
A. Weekly Bible Study (for grounding, spiritually strengthening and emotionally bonding) Included in this down the road in studies (or even immediately), hospitality at home with Bible study.
B. Write/text/call to check up on the contacts when sick or when they miss church. If they don't respond and you have a comfortable connection with them, drop by their place to check up on them and "see how they are." I see if I can do anything to help, if they are ill or if they are missing church, I let them know they are missed. If they have any spiritual needs they tell me of, I try to help them.
C. Invite them out to eat after church. To get to know them better. Building bonds is important.
D. I include them in spiritual activities. Like passing out Bibles with me, getting signatures for studies. If new converts, of course they should be included in acts of worship and church activities.
E. If they don't have a car and need a ride and you have room, pick them up. It will go along way to building bonds and will let them know you care.
Note: from my experience, if you build bonds with them and help them, but do not ground them or include them in spiritual work. You will have made friends, but in the long run they will not remain faithful, for "they have no root." Give them a strong foundation in the Word. Don't get in the cycle of trying to maintain a friendship to keep them going to church. This won't work. And if that is your main priority, you will tend to do what it takes to keep the bond, even if it means giving them things, doing things for them, that will make them co dependent on you, instead of the message of God and His teaching.
____
November: Report 12
Evangelism campaign.
I'm not getting alot of help in the fields of the Lord. My contacts help me get Bible study signatures. They are reliable. But if I can establish a better support system, I can double (or if wished triple) my signatures a month.
Craigslist.org, has people willing to do "labor," "Customer service" and "non profit" jobs. I can train such people, in what to say, (in invites and in replying to questions, here are some of the questions I get, 1. where is the study, 2. when is the study, 3. what is the content, 4. who comes to the study. 5. And Bible questions or statements. Which for this I will have them say to questions... "Sign up for the study and we'll have the group answer them.")
I can interview them and stay with them initially on the outreach site, to see how they approach others. In being on site while the work is being done, I will see the attitude that person has and how they act towards others in being, sincere, warm, friendly, polite, etc. And I can work with them so they can see how it is done in my example. If they don't make the cut, I'll keep going till I find a good candidate.
Then once this one time on site training is done, (which still will generate signatures,) I can officially move forward and set up a evangelism booth site on campus and have someone work for 3 hrs.
For churches who have many willing and able teachers and who have members who can afford to spend more, they can increase the staff and get more signatures a week. They can hire another staff member to come by and work another 3 hrs at that location, after the first staff member quiets. When they get more then one vetted staff member, they can leave and come back after 3 hrs, get the signatures, pay and talk with the staff worker and wait for the next one to arrive. When the next one arrives. They can leave and come back in 3 hrs. Get his signatures, repeat, etc. After that second staff member is done, they can repeat it a their time if wished. And can do events more then once a week. Two days doing such work would be powerful.
(NOW PLEASE UNDERSTAND, I PUT THIS EVANGELISM CAMPAIGN INTO PRACTICE BECAUSE I WANT TO GENERATE SIGNATURES AND NEED HELP. MY CHURCH IS SMALL AND THIS SUPPORT IS NEEDED FOR ME. DURING THIS SEASON OF WORK ROYCE BELL COULD NOT HELP ME DUE TO TRYING TO SALE THE CHURCH BUILDING, DUE TO THE LOCATION BEING IN A VERY VIOLENT PLACE. ROYCE IS ONE OF THE BEST OUT THERE IN STREET EVANGELISM. SO LET ME GIVE CONTEXT.
YET IF A CHURCH IS DOING THIS TYPE OF CAMPAIGN.... WHEN THEY HAVE THE MAN POWER WITHIN THE CONGREGATION....WELL...THIS IS NOT A CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT IDLENESS AND LAZINESS IN THE CONGREGATION. GOD WANTS EVANGELISM TO BE A CHURCH WORK AND FOR CHRISTIANS TO STEP UP. THE REASON WE ARE DYING OUT IS BECAUSE OF CHRISTIAN INDIFFERENCE IN THIS AREA. This site is to teach Christians how to do outreach and to teach the new converts how to serve others in this venue as well. But if a preacher, christian needs help, because a church is small or indifferent and he can't or won't get help, then this evangelism campaign is a good model to implement.)
For me in this work, I will be there initially after vetting the staff, to set up the tent and materials and allow myself to focus on other work activities. 3 hrs is exhausting work in evangelism outreach. It's hard to do two 3 hr sessions a week. I have done it, but it takes a toll. When I did such, I had to slow things down within around a month and a half. Had to much going on with studies and contacts. I like the idea of doing an evangelism campaign. I can get the same results without burn out. And having 10 more signatures a week, for 3 hrs of work, will double what I am getting now. I can get staff help and can spent the time they are working, in getting other activities accomplished. I still intent to get signatures in outreach work, but the help will make a difference.
I will be slowing down the work with the "evangelism campaign" once a week or even once a month, if I am busy, with contacts and don't need any more studies for awhile. But it's a great idea for a jump start and can really help in getting contacts generated and in making head way. When things get to busy, since it's just me, primarily teaching, then I can slow things down.
For what I get done in a month, with 1 staff member helping, I can get two months worth of work done, in generating signatures and contacts. For the cost of 40 dollars a week, it is worth it. The potential results is worth it. The more signatures, the more possible Bible studies, the more Bible studies, the more possible conversions, the more conversions, the more potential church growth. May ask why 20 dollars for 5 signatures. Because it is hard work and the cost is fitting for the work being done.
I noticed that when I did two 3 hr events a week, for a month, I had to slow things down somewhat. I had more studies and contacts then I could handle alone. But for me doing such work alone was also exhausting. And is hard for a person by himself with all the other things evangelism entails to physically in health maintain. The evangelism model of getting staff can be applied to door knocking and other evangelism pursuits as well.
For financial reasons I will ask the staff member to stop when he get's to 10 signatures. If I get any complaints of bribery or intimation from people, that staff member is gone. If a large portion of the numbers are false they are gone. But I am getting them from a reputable site and will amply vet them, so that should not be a problem. I can afford to pay 40 dollars a week for doubling my signature quota. Which will mean more Bible studies monthly.
At Craigslist.org, this is the ad I posted. "The job is simple. I'll be there to work you through it the first and second time. I get Bible study class signatures at colleges, (Cal State and Valley College) 3 hrs a week. I tend to get 5-10 signatures. I can pay 20 dollars per 5 signatures. 10 signatures, (40 dollars) is the limit per weekly event. My church is small and I don't have the help. I need someone who is polite, respectful, trustworthy, honest, warm, friendly, and personal. The first 1-2 events I'm with you, are trial periods. Anyone can do this, but want to make sure the right person is doing this work. I will accept many people, till I find the right one. I am not that picky, just want to make sure heckling, rude behavior, etc, does not take place. And that the person is respectful of the religious work and the church group behind this work."
Here is my interview sheet I will use for interviewing. It will also have info on the sheet, that I will give to the trainee.
Now I will implement this evangelism campaign model in December and January. If it is a flop, which I can't foresee how, then I will make that clear here.
I'll write more on these topic's later down the road...
__________
November: Report 13
For December, I plan on adding to my Bible sign up sheets a "free Uber car ride to church," invite. See updated Bible sign up sheets. Cal State. Valley College. Arrowhead/street evangelism. And maybe an individual sign up sheet for when I do outreach for college age people. Alot of them don't have cars and if they want to worship, this provides them a solution to attend church. May build a bond to further interact with them as well. I am checking out uber as a potential avenue for this. The church building is just 5-7 minutes away by car. So it should not cost to much from my pocket. Just a few dollars. And would be well worth it, if college people start attending with us. I know I got alot of pots on the fire. I'll go further into this if it pans out.
Pans out...new recording 11/28/2017
Talked with a Uber driver to deal with two concerns I had. If I had someone come by and pick a contact up, what would happen if they asked to go somewhere else, especially far away, on my dime? He said the destinations are fixed by the account holder of the person setting up the transportation. Which was a relief. Second concern was, what if the contact did not show up. The Uber guys said he'd wait a few minutes and I'd get charged a few dollars as a waiting fee. Which is not bad. But.... I will also text the contact the day of to get a confirmation, before sending Uber over. I ask (text them) to come out (5 minutes) early before Uber arrives on the given time and stay out (5 minutes) past the pick up time, in case Uber is late. Where I am at, the locations are pretty near each other, and I only allow pick up in the San Bernardino area where I live, so this time window works.
It's simple, on my Bible sign up sheet, and maybe other materials I will ask for their number. Once I get it, I will text them and mention them signing up and give them the times/days of worship. I will ask if they want to go to church on a set time, to first give a days notice. Like for Sunday worship to text me on Saturday. And the time they would like to come over. I will also ask for them to text me the street area where they can meet up with the Uber driver, so I can give that address to him. Once church is over, I will have the Uber drive come by and pick them up and take them home. For Uber details: Uber website. Uber app.
Side note: if your on Facebook and want to talk about COC evangelism, see this page forum.
2018
January: Report 14
The time stamp for this report is 1/11/2018. You maybe wondering why I have not written in December? Just been really busy. I hired help for the infrastructure. Got David on Craigslist. He is going door knocking with me and working at the campus, and doing street evangelism, to get Bible signatures. It is a real hassle going through this process. Most interested people don't follow through. It takes time to get I hiree. But I needed a support system in place before I really hit the streets in outreach. David has been of tremendous help. How David approaches people differently then I do, but it works. To get their attention, he says "Good morning" or "how are you doing?" This catches their attention then, he invites them to sign up for a Bible study. The street we worked at is where many homeless are and poor. Standing at the street, Highland Ave, it seems like no one is around, but with time, people pass by, and after a few hours the numbers add up. Don't let low crowded places fool you, they can be places to get signatures for studies. The picture above is where David and worked on the street. We got 10 signatures that day. Don't wait an hour, get discouraged with low traffic and go home, do the time, commit 4-5 hours. With time in a social outdoor setting, where folks have to go places, you will see the people coming by.
The Uber network is working out. People are wanting rides to church. I use the app, let the driver know where to pick someone up and take them and give the person who is interested in being picked up notice of Uber coming. If someone wants to come to church, I tell them in text to give me a days notice (or more) ahead of time, and to let me know what church service time they want to be picked up for. I also ask them to text me their address. And ask them to be ready and in 30 minutes outside by the street, before the mentioned service time. The place where I worship is pretty close the the housing locations in San Bernardino, CA. But if it was further I would ask for them to be ready/outside, earlier. Have a rule that I don't pick people up who are not in the San Bernardino area. Which is needed since I don't have people helping me pick folks up from church.
I have a female hiree who is helping me with Bible studies. Which again goes to infrastructure support.
Door knocking is something I have mentioned earlier. I have had success with it. I know saints poo poo this venue, but if someone invests alot of time and patience and work, results will come. It's as simple as inviting someone to church or to sign up for a Bible study. It's a numbers game and going from house to house is not easy. Especially with most houses empty or people unavailable. Going to more social places, like streets, beaches, colleges, to do outreach, tends to be better in how people respond. Theirs negativity associated with folks coming to ones door. BUT, if you contact enough folks, you will get thank you's, conversations, and positive responses, some of which can lead to a study or them coming to church. With the walking and empty houses, it takes time to get results, because it is about numbers. It helps if it's a group splitting up into mini groups of 3-4's, more ground is covered, more numbers reached, more results are likely. To get a Bible study signature with door knocking, I need to interact with 1-50 people on average at their homes. So groups are diffidently helpful with covering ground. These stat's are pretty good. In earlier reports here you will see more stat's from sources and successful results. And the results are better then when the Mormons do this door knocking work. Mormons have a rule of thumb they teach their students who go door knocking, that 1-1,000 people interacted with will lead to a Bible study. Yet despite these odds, they go door knocking every day for hours at a time. I must confess, I can only handle an hour walking around doing this. The JW's and Mormons are consistent in door knocking, campus work, etc. They get results and growing their religious bodies.
When it comes to Bible studies, always bring Bible lesson material, (extra, in case the contacts wife, son show up, etc) extra Bibles (in back pack), pens, paper. If possible, have a sheet that shows the Bible page numbers that corresponds with your Bible lesson passages you have layed out in your material. I have such material made with lesson curriculum at the "materials" page. From my studies, not everyone knows how to look up books/verses in the Bible. This preparation will help in being ready.
When someone comes in to a low foot traffic restaurant place, (low traffic is best), any fast food places like Taco Bell, McDonald's, etc, or even busy places like Starbucks work, as long as you can see the people inside and interact with them.... if you can't remember what the person looked like, or if your not sure, ask if that new person is the contacts name who signed for the study and if they are here for a Bible study? Preparation for meeting in a public spot is best done, by writing a description (after they leave) of the individual, upon first meeting them, when they sign up for a study. If the meeting is at a college library, cafeteria, etc. Have them first meet you at a easy to locate and point out area, like the school mascot statue or at tables near the library entrance or cafeteria entrance.
When it comes to Bible studies, guys usually really don't care if just a guy shows up to study with them. Girls do care, it's always good to have a female present when meeting a female for a study.
Need to state this one more time. I spoke on this earlier. But want to state it again. Have ran into this problem in the past.... and with the helpful advice from a successful evangelist, Ricky Shanks, I want to restate the following. Some poor people you come into contact with in evangelism work, will want you to help them with money issues or food, items, transportation, etc. If you help people regularly it will create co dependency. And can lead to feelings of entitlement. Once you stop helping them at this state they get to, you will offend them. If you help them in such things, it will change their focus to going to church or getting Bible studies to secular things. If they are originally interested in spiritual things, but are poor, etc, and you give them things, like money, food, etc, the desires of wealth can choke out the spiritual desires. Mark 4:18-19
In fact it does....I have seen this time and again. They will stop looking at you for spiritual guidance and help and will instead look at you as someone they can get things from. Not saying don't help people. I am saying focus on saving their soul and helping them spiritually first. That is most important. With time, if they progress spiritually, they can become members of the church and other saints can focus on such details. But primarily with the aim in directly or indirectly helping the poor help themselves, with the goal of helping them in getting a job, vocation, skill set, etc. As the scripture teaches, if a man shall not work, neither should he eat. 2 Thessalonians 3:10
Also in matters of spiritual things, like getting them a Bible, driving them to church, etc, this is fine. If I do help them, due to a serious need they have, I let them know I can't keep doing so. I will be diplomatic in my excuses, I will mention job work, or my financial limits. And in this regard we all have such terms to bring up, for these all affect us in some way. Down the road I can focus on helping them find a job or in getting them to a place for a interview, etc. But first I want to focus on what matters most their souls.
I don't think anyone who says they are an evangelist and walks to cure cancer or passes out socks to poor people are doing evangelism. They can call it so. But that is not what evangelism is. Evangelism is sharing Jesus Christ in teaching the Gospel. It is not social justice. I have never seen a preacher save a soul by giving people stuff or doing social causes. Even zealous social justice preachers. Nothing wrong with helping people in itself, if done honestly and is focused on helping the poor improve themselves. But it is not evangelism. But if your goal is to help people spiritually, focus on that. The rest can follow with time. Once they receive the truth and are apart of the house of God, and have been spiritually established and made strong, in hearing the Word and in having studies... then you can focus on supporting them in other things. But as a evangelist, your main goal its to take them under your wing and ground them, include them in spiritual activities and help them spiritually in the needs and concerns they have.
Note: campus and street evangelism, does not require a booth, (or a permit - street/registration - campus). You can do this work with just a sign up sheet, positioning yourself in a key location. You can also do this work outside of parks, beaches, malls, grocery stores, etc. As well as (registering) to do such work at flea markets and fair grounds.
February: Report 15
The time Stamp is 2/8/2018. Okay, it's been a busy month. AND this will be the last month I will be in San Bernardino, CA. So I have been busy with transition work. But I have made new material for new converts this month. Please see the "free material store page." Wanted to do this, due to my contacts needing easier material for their Bible studies. The mentioned site, will give more detail on why I did this and the importance of the material. Also see this mentioned site or this link, for downloadable study cards for memorizing key verses on salvation and the church. This site will also have useful cards to have on hand for refuting, Islam, Buddhism, Mormonism, Atheism.
I will be moving to Tampa, FL on March 3rd. Once there, I will continue to do evangelism work.
Today I went to Ralph's grocery store and Walmart to see if I could put up a table to share free Bible's and to sign people up for Bible studies. A friend in CA, said it's hard to get permission from such franchises. From what I saw, they will use social groups and charities, (like Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Veterans, Salvation Army, Vote campaigns, etc) but from what I saw today, in liberal CA, such stores are not keen on allowing religious groups to set up in such area's. They made that clear. Now, if a person lives in less PC places, immoral liberal places, like CA for example, that could be another story. If a person instead lived in places like Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, West Virginia, etc, where family values were strong, especially in close community area's or in the "Bible belt" area's, or in small country rural area's, then such evangelism work, would be more possible.
Basically how one get's permission at a grocery store is to ask to speak to a manager during less busy hours. And to simple ask. It's best if social and charity groups have been seen in such places as well. Gives a hint if they allow that sort of thing. The manager's name will be listed on the receipt. Simply ask to speak to that person, explain you saw, such and such groups and were wondering if a form could be signed to do the same.
When asked what your group does, say, we pass out free Bibles and invite Bible to church Bible studies. Note: that when I did this at Ralph's grocery store, the lady said the upper management would not like your religious group doing this. But then said if I set the table up, near it's border, she'd let it pass. But would have to tell me to move, if someone complained. So even in godless, liberal San Bernardino CA, it is possible.
I will be moving to Tampa, FL on March 3rd. Once there, I will continue to do evangelism work.
Today I went to Ralph's grocery store and Walmart to see if I could put up a table to share free Bible's and to sign people up for Bible studies. A friend in CA, said it's hard to get permission from such franchises. From what I saw, they will use social groups and charities, (like Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Veterans, Salvation Army, Vote campaigns, etc) but from what I saw today, in liberal CA, such stores are not keen on allowing religious groups to set up in such area's. They made that clear. Now, if a person lives in less PC places, immoral liberal places, like CA for example, that could be another story. If a person instead lived in places like Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, West Virginia, etc, where family values were strong, especially in close community area's or in the "Bible belt" area's, or in small country rural area's, then such evangelism work, would be more possible.
Basically how one get's permission at a grocery store is to ask to speak to a manager during less busy hours. And to simple ask. It's best if social and charity groups have been seen in such places as well. Gives a hint if they allow that sort of thing. The manager's name will be listed on the receipt. Simply ask to speak to that person, explain you saw, such and such groups and were wondering if a form could be signed to do the same.
When asked what your group does, say, we pass out free Bibles and invite Bible to church Bible studies. Note: that when I did this at Ralph's grocery store, the lady said the upper management would not like your religious group doing this. But then said if I set the table up, near it's border, she'd let it pass. But would have to tell me to move, if someone complained. So even in godless, liberal San Bernardino CA, it is possible.
February: Report 16
Time stamp 2/23/2018
Location, location, location. In San Bernardino, CA, the DMV is always busy. And the area there has alot of foot traffic into the DMV. When I went over there this afternoon, to get my license plate number renewed, guess who I saw there? The JW's. They let me take a picture of them and ask how they set up the booth at a government location. I was told all they had to do was go to city hall and get a permit. Sometimes someone else would get a permit ahead of them and they would have to wait on their waiting list. That's the same response/answer I got, a few months back, from this group, when I asked about how they were able to do their outreach work on the boardwalk, at Huntington Beach. If you want to put up a booth at a park, near a local arena, during a community event, or on the beach walkway, etc, all you have to do is visit your local city hall (or in some cases, some other gov building). To find out where to go to get a permit, just ask around at city hall or research/google to find the details).
I personally don't do permits, it's to much leg work in getting it set up with the government folks. For places that would require a permit, like street area's for a booth, I just get a clip board and approach people, inviting them for a Bible study. I wave, smile, greet, invite. If I get someone's attention from either, the smile, wave or greeting, (like in saying, "Hi," or "good day!") I then talk with them some more and invite them to a study. Like, for example: "our church is having Bible studies, would you be interested in studying with us sometime?" For the bolder and more comfortable/experienced folks, you can just come up to people and just invite them.
About the JW's mentioned above, I don't admire their dogma, but I do appreciate the zeal they have. I asked the lady on the left, why the JW's are so zealous for outreach? She quoted the passages in Matthew of the great commission and said, "we are obligated to go out and reach others, Christ commands it." Why is it, the Lord's people don't feel under such an obligation? I see the JW's going door knocking, when I do such outreach, at the colleges, when I doing an evangelism event there, etc. Why don't we feel the stigma of disobeying such a command, or the hypocrisy of only empty church rhetoric, which is to common in God's House. The JW's and Mormons are obviously wrong in matters of faith, but we who claim, "to speak where the Bible speaks," are sadly in large part, silent in obeying this commandment, to reach out to the lost.
These groups are growing across the globe and US. While we are winking out. Things need to change, (here's a great book for motivation). This commandment to save others, needs to be taught/preached on. And made a matter of taboo/sin, when not obeyed. It should be as serious as adultery or murder. For to ignore a soul in danger of hell, to disobey Jesus' words to seek and save the lost, is worse then either of these two. Adultery destroys a marriage, murder ends a life, but spiritual indifference to a soul damned, can mean, eternal suffering, without God. If we don't care to save people from that, what does it say about us? If churches don't care enough to get out into the community and reach others, what does it say about that church? Mormons and JW's feel the urgency of avoiding this sin. It's a taboo in their religious culture. It should viewed in God's kingdom, in the same light. For the Bible teaches that willfully ignoring the truth, is disobedience to the Word of God. We know that a lifestyle lived of unrepentant sin, is damnable. But we pick what sins will cause us to be lost, rape, drunkenness, fornication, not attending church, but apathy in regards to trying to reach others for Christ, is something we someone leave out. Christians don't think it is serious to try to save others. It's not frowned upon when God's people are indifferent in this area. Elders don't warn others, preachers don't lead by example, Christians don't support each other in this pursuit. Churches don't focus on community outreach. Things need to change. They really do.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
9/7/2019
Later notes:
Street evangelism can work anywhere with a invite, a sign up sheet, a pin and a pad. You can go into malls, stand near grocery stores, or at bus stops or busy walk ways. You can do this work at town parks, campuses, walk ways near a foot ball game or a concert, at the DMV or court house, etc. You maybe asked to leave, some places at times, (primarily store sites). But if you get used to this work, you can blend in and become less noticeable. And if you leave, you can always go to another location. If you leave, a place, you will still have had a chance to interact with others and share Jesus.
Malls may let you rent a booth, depends on the mall. If it is in the ghetto or if the mall is not doing well, the likelihood increases. Run down neighborhood are less picky with tables being set up by the side of the road, (for outreach). You'll probably notice, barbecue or Mexican food vendors set up with a small tent and table, selling food, in such places, near a gas station or in an empty parking lot. I've seen such as well as clothing or car washes being offered by the side of the road, in run down communities. Regulations and rules are more lax in such communities. This is ideal for street evangelism, (if you want to set up a booth/table).
Campuses are good starting points for outreach in this field of work. You can either rent a vendor booth on campus or (if it is a free speech zone) sign a form to be allowed to put up a booth/table. If neither formats work, you can always just bring your sign up sheet and walk around campus inviting people. If it is a large campus, it is easy to blend in.
IN DOOR KNOCKING, IN STREET/CAMPUS EVANGELISM, IN ANY FORMAT OF OUTREACH, for best results, focus on the poorest communities. The more people are hurting, struggling, etc. The more likely they will be in response to the Gospel. Not saying don't do other area's. I am just saying these area's are good places to target. Work in a million dollar community and in a homeless and poor community, you'll notice a difference. Both will respond. But certain area's will require more time and work.
March: Report 17
This month, I moved from CA to FL. And have been busy with transition. But I did made time to write a short eBook and make a short video detailing street and campus evangelism preparation and follow through. The eBook can be read online, downloaded and printed out for classes. Click on the stores link here. This eBook and all other content on this site are free. The eBook is titled "Street and Campus Evangelism 101." I am not going to keep writing my reports anymore. At least for this period. Since I am doing this blog, which reports what work I am doing. But the past reports have good information in them. If you want to read them, click reports.
April and May: Report 18
I've been busy with transition work, moving, looking for a place to live, getting a secular job to help with my evangelism work, etc. I've made materials to teach a class. Materials in picture can be downloaded at the site's store. Other materials will be mentioned below. These past two months, I've been preparing to get a group together to teach the evangelism methods. Needed to first find key locations. I'll have the list posted below of the area's I scouted out and detailed for evangelism work. The Tampa bay area, in FL is a great place for having many options. So I have been busy visiting the small cities in this area, colleges, etc. I've found some great places to do street evangelism and campus evangelism. When I was in CA, the colleges had free speech zones, but I have found FL does not. 8 states, (Virginia, Missouri, Arizona, Kentucky, Colorado, Utah, North Carolina and Tennessee) have taken away free speech zones in colleges, FL under Rick Scout, has become the 9th. For evangelism outlets, such colleges can still be useful.
I am going to get my group together to still do college work. I will pay for the college selected space, as a vendor. The college I went to, (USF) has a special day on Wednesdays, for groups to do a vendor fair and individuals can also pay for other days, as well. Does not matter if it's religious, non profit, business, etc. This is great for putting up a booth in a specific designated area for outreach. Many colleges have opportunities for people to do vendor work. Its pretty easy, as I have signed a sheet for working on a free speech zone, I do the same for doing vendor work. Always specify your not selling anything. Just ask around at a college for the place to go for free speech zones or for the place that can help with services for vendor work. The other options for any place, college, street, etc, is simply to just get a back pack of Bibles and a sign up sheet for Bible studies and find a high traffic location, to simply invite people to "sign up for Bible studies.."
I saw was Scientologist in Ybor City, standing at the street corner, near their church, passing out materials, near the HCC campus I visited, between the college cafeteria and parking lot. Which had good student foot traffic. This campus would not let me set up a booth, which is the case for certain colleges. The exception, they gave was I could do such work, once or twice a year, for a job fair, etc. Which is to infrequent to do any good. But again, in a street location, the above group found a way around that.
As I mentioned the Jehovah Witness folks get permits. Which is an option. It requires alot of work/time/paperwork, but if you go to City Hall, they can help you go this route, if wished. For the JW's who are a large entity, I can see them choosing this path.
For most states, that are strict about putting up a booth, using a permit, a sign up sheet/clipboard, with a back pack for Bibles, will work. In San Bernardino, CA, the infrastructure was broken, people could get away with putting up a booth by the road near two restaurants on either side, without a permit. That's what I did. Besides my evangelism booth, I would see booths for cell phones by the side of the road everywhere and people setting up car washes too. Maybe you know of other places where you live, like that as well. If you see people doing such where you live, then that could be a good tale, for whether you can do the same.
Remember if you go to a place doing street work to ask for Bible studies, it's good to 1. be in a high foot traffic area or 2. a park or low attention area to blend in. Be polite, dress in nice, casual clothes, be friendly. Also, if your in a group, be spread out. Worst case scenario, you will be told to leave. Have other sites, picked out, (not in the immediate area), to go to if this happens, or break for the day, if this happens. How to make this work. It's basically the same as doing a booth, as I've detailed in the blog already, you: 1. You get their attention, you can wave, smile, say hello, greet, hold up a Bible. 2. Then you can talk to them some more, or introduce yourself/shake their hand, or simply ask if they would like to sign up for a Bible study. 3. Then you can explain what the Bible study is about or just wait for the reply. The law of averages, says someone will say yes, if you do this consistently and invest time into this work.
If your not comfortable with doing this street evangelism method, flea markets, fairs, colleges, of course work, too. Even door knocking is a favorite method, of mine, to do street work. Though it does require alot of time and work, results come. Last year, Gordon Pennell, started coming to church and had multiple Bible studies, during the door knocking work I did with a small group near the church building. And Francisco Batista, in the same vicinity, has been coming to church, doing Bible studies with the preacher...and is now saved. This was due to the door knocking efforts. He would not have come to church, if we had not invited him. He's serving in church and is a great encouragement to me and many others. Francis is an amazing man. During the door knocking work, when we met him, Francis talked with us for an hour about spiritual things. We talked about baptism and other Bible themes. Francis works hard for the Lord. Attends faithfully. He's an example of what a Christian should be. Read my early reports to hear about more conversions in FL, before I went to CA for 9 months, to do outreach work. You can also read about conversions and successes in CA, as well, in these reports.
Below are the places I scouted out with the details, I listed for the work, in correlation to those area's.
| ev_booth_areas_and_non_booth_areas.pdf |
Francisco Batista being baptized
Here are the Sign up sheets I made for these scouted out area's.
Feel free to download and edit to use as you like
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_hcc_in_ybor_city.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_clearwater_beach.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_hcc_on_dale_mabry.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_university_of_tampa_by_bridge_walkway.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_riverwalk_in_tampa_city.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_tampa_bridge_in_tampa_city.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_usf.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_study_at_flea_market_.pdf |
| sign_up_for_bible_studies_door_knocking_near_church_building_.pdf |
During my work prep in Tampa FL, I found out, last month, a friend I made in CA, while doing my evangelism work, (during my 9 month stay there), was baptized. Clark Aboud is a very spiritual young man, who has alot of zeal and Bible interests. The preacher on the left, (Royce Bell) after discussing the Word with him more, had this picture taken after Clark choose to be buried with Jesus. 1 Corinthians 3:6
Idea's to retain new Christians
To many times saints just let new converts slip through the cracks. They don't visit them when they are absent or call them to check up. They don't pick them up when they need a ride to church. They don't write them or bring them a meal when they are sick. They don't say hello at church or invite them out to eat after worship. They don't treat them with love, just negativity and coldness. They don't ground them regularly in the Word, so as to prevent the new saints from falling away. What good is it to bring someone to Jesus, if God's people choose to let the new born babies starve to death, spiritually and fend for themselves, in their weak state of infancy?
Here's a document I made on successful ways to retain a new Christian.
Here's a document I made on successful ways to retain a new Christian.
| retain_new_converts.pdf |
Keeping our kids from leaving the church: another useful document on retention.
How to retain kids from slipping through the cracks as a parent and as a Bible class teacher. Make sure your Bible class teachers are doctrinally strong. As you would get to know the preacher, when visiting a church to consider placing membership, for the same reasons. As you would in picking a spouse, for the same reasons. Make sure you give due diligence to those who train your kids. False teachers are dangerous and we need to always give due diligence.
| keeping_our_young_people_strong_in_the_church_and_in_the_home.pdf |
Steps to use to get comfortable with street and campus evangelism.
Doing street/campus evangelism can be scary. So I made step by step exercise program for helping ease into such work. It's nothing fancy. Just a stage progression layout to help someone feel like they can do street/campus work. Also see this link, to get my evangelism methodolgy book, the material will detail, "cold Approach." The book is titled "Making it Work, 3 Powerful Techniques on Evangelism." It has a program to help with approach anxiety. It is tailored alittle different, but can help just the same with desensitization.
Evangelism class
Had a good turn out for the workshop, I put together. In churches, that are moderately healthy, their is on average about a 10 percent turn out for spiritual work events, (which was the case for me, here). This is the rule of thumb for denominational groups as well, in their work efforts. Mormon and JW groups are the exception. They get higher turn outs. But that is the reflection of their religious culture. In matters of zeal their culture in work surpasses ours. The mindset in Gods kingdom of apathy needs to change. But when enough Christians change, when enough churches change, our religious culture will change too. Yet, I'm excited to have 10 percent. Having others interested is valued. These people are eager to work and learn. Though I can labor alone, and have done so in the past, it adds to the effort of outreach having support in this work. And helps in slow measure, to change the kingdom culture.
It's important, though not necessary, that the leaders support such efforts by showing up at the very least to such classes, if not the evangelism outreach events. The churches that don't have leaders, leading in supporting evangelism efforts in the local congregation they are apart of, tend to send a mixed message and encourage further disinterest, from other Christians, in such endeavors. This also would include any spiritual events. Events done by the church members, as well as by the eldership and the church. If leaders don't lead by example, especially in things they have put together for their congregation to do, it undermines the work to a degree and their credibility as leaders. Take a "church work day" for example, if the eldership puts a work day together and stays home to eat and watch football, it undermines the effort and their credibility. This also, undermines the church as a whole, when it is not a cohesive support system, with the leaders unifying the base. People can and should do things outside of groups, but when a Christian does not support a church work or a group work for the church, it AGAIN undermines the cohesive unity of such efforts in the church and in this the church team spirit and connectiveness. I have done evangelism without such support through the past years. And have saved souls, encouraged saints to get involved and have trained others. BUT churches grow faster when it is a team system, supporting one another, then as disjointed members and groups. Apathy is contagious and it can start at the top, when leaders refuse to lead by example, in the church work they have put together and in the Christian work, as shepherds of the flock, they should support. When they lead in such efforts, they support the Lord's work and the sheep they are to look after, guide and support. Note: that when I say, "leaders" I am referring to the eldership. But preachers are in a public forum. They speak truth to the body of Christ. In this role, they are looked at as a example. Their influence as leaders, must be backed up by the right example as well. For teachers will be judged more severely, (James 3:1) if they do not practice what they preach, (Matthew 23:3). In the above items: If a preacher speaks on helping one another and does not help God's people, when he can. When he says we must save the lost, but does nothing, nor does he support those who do, this is hypocrisy. And will hurt a church more then anything else, in matters of personal influence.
If preachers, had more backing and the elders leading the rallying cry in word and deed, they would get better outlining interest and turn out. If the eldership supported saints, (who wanted to create a outreach work), in the same manner, making such efforts, "official" through their backing, more would lend support. But many, especially the weak Christian, will see indifference from the top as a blanket excuse for themselves to ignore such efforts. What a good eldership will do, is support the work, in attending the gathering. The eldership will make the work "official" by announcing it. They will encourage others to go publicly and privately. It is important that the eldership, make the work a "church group" activity they back and promote. A church event, sanctioned by the elders and organic from the elders, has more credibility in the congregations eyes as something to be apart of, then a individual putting things together. When people think it is a "church group" they are more likely to attend, then if they think it is a Christian member putting a group together. For preachers, who want such backing, they can ask if the eldership will support such a endeavor. For Christians, they can do the same. Not all elders will say yes, but it does not hurt to ask. If they say they will not support such a work, you can always do it yourself.
Just wanted to share alittle side item on what my mom, (Jeanne Sullivan) does in evangelism. This lady is a personal hero of mine and is in large part, who I am today. I would not be a evangelist, without the guidance she had given me, in my formative years. She is near 70 years old and is not in the best of health, yet her fire for the Lord still burns bright in her work for him. I just wanted to include what she does, these things have helped me and are worthy of sharing. She has back issues, has had walking issues due to knee pain, yet mom still goes out to reach the lost.
Door knocking
When mom, goes door knocking, she does some simple, yet important steps, she taught me. Mom, goes to the door, when it opens, after she knocks, she smiles and introduces herself, in a warm, friendly, personal voice. She greets the person at the door, with "hello" and gives that person her name. Mom, offers her hand to be shaken. Smiles. Asks them what their name is. Then offers them a personal invite. Going to a door and skipping the above, is not as effective. It can and does still work, but the results are better, if you first interact with the person and introduce yourself, in a personal manner, before giving the invite.
Church Invite
Mom has converted people through the years, doing this. When a visitor comes to church, mom talks with them, gets to know them, is personal, warm and friendly. She invites that person over to her home, for a home cooked meal. AND a Bible study. It can be after church or at a later date. Being invited to another person's home to eat a home made meal with a family and study the Word of God, is appealing to people. Hospitality, invokes feeling of belonging, connection and family. If people are at church, they are probably interested in spiritual things. So a Bible invite is diffidently a good focus, to aim for. As I have said before, it is important to build a connection. When mom invites someone over to her home for a home cooked meal, with her family, it says, "I care." Such actions invoke feelings of belonging. This builds a connection. Then when a Bible invite is given, the response, due to having that connection build, is more likely to be favorable.
It's important, though not necessary, that the leaders support such efforts by showing up at the very least to such classes, if not the evangelism outreach events. The churches that don't have leaders, leading in supporting evangelism efforts in the local congregation they are apart of, tend to send a mixed message and encourage further disinterest, from other Christians, in such endeavors. This also would include any spiritual events. Events done by the church members, as well as by the eldership and the church. If leaders don't lead by example, especially in things they have put together for their congregation to do, it undermines the work to a degree and their credibility as leaders. Take a "church work day" for example, if the eldership puts a work day together and stays home to eat and watch football, it undermines the effort and their credibility. This also, undermines the church as a whole, when it is not a cohesive support system, with the leaders unifying the base. People can and should do things outside of groups, but when a Christian does not support a church work or a group work for the church, it AGAIN undermines the cohesive unity of such efforts in the church and in this the church team spirit and connectiveness. I have done evangelism without such support through the past years. And have saved souls, encouraged saints to get involved and have trained others. BUT churches grow faster when it is a team system, supporting one another, then as disjointed members and groups. Apathy is contagious and it can start at the top, when leaders refuse to lead by example, in the church work they have put together and in the Christian work, as shepherds of the flock, they should support. When they lead in such efforts, they support the Lord's work and the sheep they are to look after, guide and support. Note: that when I say, "leaders" I am referring to the eldership. But preachers are in a public forum. They speak truth to the body of Christ. In this role, they are looked at as a example. Their influence as leaders, must be backed up by the right example as well. For teachers will be judged more severely, (James 3:1) if they do not practice what they preach, (Matthew 23:3). In the above items: If a preacher speaks on helping one another and does not help God's people, when he can. When he says we must save the lost, but does nothing, nor does he support those who do, this is hypocrisy. And will hurt a church more then anything else, in matters of personal influence.
If preachers, had more backing and the elders leading the rallying cry in word and deed, they would get better outlining interest and turn out. If the eldership supported saints, (who wanted to create a outreach work), in the same manner, making such efforts, "official" through their backing, more would lend support. But many, especially the weak Christian, will see indifference from the top as a blanket excuse for themselves to ignore such efforts. What a good eldership will do, is support the work, in attending the gathering. The eldership will make the work "official" by announcing it. They will encourage others to go publicly and privately. It is important that the eldership, make the work a "church group" activity they back and promote. A church event, sanctioned by the elders and organic from the elders, has more credibility in the congregations eyes as something to be apart of, then a individual putting things together. When people think it is a "church group" they are more likely to attend, then if they think it is a Christian member putting a group together. For preachers, who want such backing, they can ask if the eldership will support such a endeavor. For Christians, they can do the same. Not all elders will say yes, but it does not hurt to ask. If they say they will not support such a work, you can always do it yourself.
Just wanted to share alittle side item on what my mom, (Jeanne Sullivan) does in evangelism. This lady is a personal hero of mine and is in large part, who I am today. I would not be a evangelist, without the guidance she had given me, in my formative years. She is near 70 years old and is not in the best of health, yet her fire for the Lord still burns bright in her work for him. I just wanted to include what she does, these things have helped me and are worthy of sharing. She has back issues, has had walking issues due to knee pain, yet mom still goes out to reach the lost.
Door knocking
When mom, goes door knocking, she does some simple, yet important steps, she taught me. Mom, goes to the door, when it opens, after she knocks, she smiles and introduces herself, in a warm, friendly, personal voice. She greets the person at the door, with "hello" and gives that person her name. Mom, offers her hand to be shaken. Smiles. Asks them what their name is. Then offers them a personal invite. Going to a door and skipping the above, is not as effective. It can and does still work, but the results are better, if you first interact with the person and introduce yourself, in a personal manner, before giving the invite.
Church Invite
Mom has converted people through the years, doing this. When a visitor comes to church, mom talks with them, gets to know them, is personal, warm and friendly. She invites that person over to her home, for a home cooked meal. AND a Bible study. It can be after church or at a later date. Being invited to another person's home to eat a home made meal with a family and study the Word of God, is appealing to people. Hospitality, invokes feeling of belonging, connection and family. If people are at church, they are probably interested in spiritual things. So a Bible invite is diffidently a good focus, to aim for. As I have said before, it is important to build a connection. When mom invites someone over to her home for a home cooked meal, with her family, it says, "I care." Such actions invoke feelings of belonging. This builds a connection. Then when a Bible invite is given, the response, due to having that connection build, is more likely to be favorable.
June: Report 19
|
|
Time stamp: 6/20/2018.
Finishing the 4 week Friday night evangelism workshop classes. This coming Friday will be the last class. We have decided to do the Flea Market for our first evangelism event. We will do an evangelism event once a month, during the last week. I personally will aim for a more regular pace each month.
Finishing the 4 week Friday night evangelism workshop classes. This coming Friday will be the last class. We have decided to do the Flea Market for our first evangelism event. We will do an evangelism event once a month, during the last week. I personally will aim for a more regular pace each month.
Side note: One of the men, Jerry on the couch, giving a thumps up, on the left top picture. Asked if the evangelism group could visit those who have fallen through the cracks. Which is a good idea. So we are going to meet up at the building and sign cards to let these members know they are missed. And split into groups, (2 members per group) and visit these contacts. I thought cookies would be a nice touch. We will come by and simply tell them they are missed and that we hope we can see them again, soon. And verbally/physically offer them the card and cookies. If they are not home, or don't come to the door, we will leave the card and cookies at the door. I know this is a soft approach. But this is a good approach for reaching out, before having the eldership come or the saints come, to get more frank. (7/19/2018 update: people visited were 5. One of the people visited has started coming back to church.)
Side note: on June 17th for Sunday worship, different members of the church family brought many non Christians from their neighborhood or family members to church. Which is excellent! Love the zeal this church has! :D But like door knocking events I did, which had visitors, their needs to be something more added. People who come, need to be talked with and then given a warm invite over to someone's home for a meal and a Bible study. They can say no. But they need to have that option. Many people have been converted, by such a simple invite. Even if the answer is initially no, another answer down the road can be a yes. It has been. This works. So many have slipped through the cracks, for the simple reason, no one bothered to ask. Don't expect the elders or preacher to always step up. Churches don't always have such people who will do such work. It is up to you.
The evangelism group I'm working with, is going to have a sign up sheet, for those who are interested in the group to volunteer to do this. My mom is in the group. I will use her as an example, which I've already mentioned before in this blog. See the document for more useful details on doing a church invite.
The evangelism group I'm working with, is going to have a sign up sheet, for those who are interested in the group to volunteer to do this. My mom is in the group. I will use her as an example, which I've already mentioned before in this blog. See the document for more useful details on doing a church invite.
(7/19/2018 update: 7 people from the group and other saints have invited people to Bible study. 3 people said yes.)
| church_invite.pdf |
The church I am at has a 80 percent retention rate in keeping new converts. Another church I know of, had a 80 percent Attrition rate. I'm not, saying it was a bad church. Just that things where done differently.
The new convert document, I mentioned last month, in large part is the reason why the retention rate is as it is. Also, the new converts, are studied with regularly, not just in the first few weeks after baptism, when new life changes take place, but each week, yearly.
Though initial study is important. And needed. I personally use my "done in one setting" salvation lesson for soul saving and afterwards, my "done in one setting" grounding lesson plan. These can be downloaded at the websites free store link. Then I focus on doing studies with them and (a friendly) member from church, at a restaurant or home/with meal for a week or two. Homes are always best, especially if it has a positive family environment for the meal and in the background of study, (happy wife/well behaved kids). I like Bobby Bates lesson material, titled, "Back to the Bible" they are easy to use and are short. The first lesson talks on Bible authority and the second on the true church. If you have time and want to go further, before the next step, I'll mention below, you can go over the third lesson on salvation. It is important during this time to get him or her invested in church activities. This is important, as much as Bible study is, to get them emotionally invested in the church and God's work.
I'd suggest, that after initial grounding in Bible study, for a week or two, a new convert is invited to someone's home for a group study. A home of someone who agree's to host the event. People can bring food/drinks over and the host can have some food prepared. The more people who are converted the more people are added to the group. If it get's to the point where new Christians can no longer join the group, due to the size of the group, another group, by another host/teacher can be added. Long term church Christians, especially those who are loving and caring, can be invited to such groups as well. It is important that the new converts see good examples and build positive connections.
The group study materials, can deal with the true church, Bible authority, doctrinal issues, baptism, moral issues. They probably are aware of certain themes, but it is good to reinforce such truths in study and other themes that can help them grow and stay strong as well. Below is a list of books I will be using for studies for a years worth. I purchased these at the Florida College bookstore. Note: moral lesson books are a reprieve from doctrinal books. They are both needed for grounding.
The new convert document, I mentioned last month, in large part is the reason why the retention rate is as it is. Also, the new converts, are studied with regularly, not just in the first few weeks after baptism, when new life changes take place, but each week, yearly.
Though initial study is important. And needed. I personally use my "done in one setting" salvation lesson for soul saving and afterwards, my "done in one setting" grounding lesson plan. These can be downloaded at the websites free store link. Then I focus on doing studies with them and (a friendly) member from church, at a restaurant or home/with meal for a week or two. Homes are always best, especially if it has a positive family environment for the meal and in the background of study, (happy wife/well behaved kids). I like Bobby Bates lesson material, titled, "Back to the Bible" they are easy to use and are short. The first lesson talks on Bible authority and the second on the true church. If you have time and want to go further, before the next step, I'll mention below, you can go over the third lesson on salvation. It is important during this time to get him or her invested in church activities. This is important, as much as Bible study is, to get them emotionally invested in the church and God's work.
I'd suggest, that after initial grounding in Bible study, for a week or two, a new convert is invited to someone's home for a group study. A home of someone who agree's to host the event. People can bring food/drinks over and the host can have some food prepared. The more people who are converted the more people are added to the group. If it get's to the point where new Christians can no longer join the group, due to the size of the group, another group, by another host/teacher can be added. Long term church Christians, especially those who are loving and caring, can be invited to such groups as well. It is important that the new converts see good examples and build positive connections.
The group study materials, can deal with the true church, Bible authority, doctrinal issues, baptism, moral issues. They probably are aware of certain themes, but it is good to reinforce such truths in study and other themes that can help them grow and stay strong as well. Below is a list of books I will be using for studies for a years worth. I purchased these at the Florida College bookstore. Note: moral lesson books are a reprieve from doctrinal books. They are both needed for grounding.
July: Report 20
The Jehovah Witness people are very zealous. When going to the gym, I saw their stand and met two workers. A mother and son. The JW's have a well oiled system of getting permits and you will see them work just about anywhere. I've of course talked about this in the blog before and won't be redundant. If you want to have a good way to refute them when you run into the Jehovah Witness teachers see this link. Scroll down to the bottom of the page. The link will have memory cards, that can be learned or placed in ones Bible for ready access. Cards that deal with the JW religion.
This is the first month for my group to begin evangelism. I'll be doing my own activities down the road as well. As you can tell from previous blog posts, I've been devoting my time to training people for outreach. Now that this is done, the outreach work will begin...
Booth at the Flea Market
Timestamp: 7/29/2018
Had 3 members of the group show up to help with the flea market outreach, at Big Top Flea Market, in Tampa FL. The booths have shrunk by half and the crowds have shrunk by half as well. Very low traffic. The flea market is dying out and will probably fade out in a year or two. We worked for 5 hrs and got 3 signatures. 1 from a blond haired teenager, named Vic and another from a 30 something man, named Jorge, who spoke broken English. Had a friend, who is a new convert, who spoke Spanish, she helped me in talking to him and in later contacting Jorge for a study. We also had Marcus, (in superman shirt) sign up for a Bible study. Others were interested (like the young couple below in picture) but were visiting the flea market from out of town. Had 2 JW's who had another booth at the market, who said they would get s study going.
Notes from this work at the flea market. 1. Vendor/sale area's tend to have people more on their guard. But signatures still come with approaching people and asking "would you like to sign up for our Bible study?" 2. In poor places like San Bernardino, CA, where I moved from, the homeless and financially hurting, were interested in Bibles. In the middle class area where the flea market was being done, people had Bibles and were more interested in DVD's that dealt with Bible themes and other materials. These are good attention getters to catch people's attention. From their one can invite someone to a Bible study. Simply ask would you like, such and such, (content) they come over, you offer the content then you offer a Bible study invite. 3. Poor people and homeless people tend to be more receptive then moderate income folks or upper income folks. It takes longer to get results, but results come with the effort.
Had 3 members of the group show up to help with the flea market outreach, at Big Top Flea Market, in Tampa FL. The booths have shrunk by half and the crowds have shrunk by half as well. Very low traffic. The flea market is dying out and will probably fade out in a year or two. We worked for 5 hrs and got 3 signatures. 1 from a blond haired teenager, named Vic and another from a 30 something man, named Jorge, who spoke broken English. Had a friend, who is a new convert, who spoke Spanish, she helped me in talking to him and in later contacting Jorge for a study. We also had Marcus, (in superman shirt) sign up for a Bible study. Others were interested (like the young couple below in picture) but were visiting the flea market from out of town. Had 2 JW's who had another booth at the market, who said they would get s study going.
Notes from this work at the flea market. 1. Vendor/sale area's tend to have people more on their guard. But signatures still come with approaching people and asking "would you like to sign up for our Bible study?" 2. In poor places like San Bernardino, CA, where I moved from, the homeless and financially hurting, were interested in Bibles. In the middle class area where the flea market was being done, people had Bibles and were more interested in DVD's that dealt with Bible themes and other materials. These are good attention getters to catch people's attention. From their one can invite someone to a Bible study. Simply ask would you like, such and such, (content) they come over, you offer the content then you offer a Bible study invite. 3. Poor people and homeless people tend to be more receptive then moderate income folks or upper income folks. It takes longer to get results, but results come with the effort.
Report 21: August
Timestamp: 8/28/2018 In August, I've been working on doing two secular jobs, Uber and Lyft. I want to get a job down the road as a preacher or full time evangelist, but I also need to be in Tampa FL, due to family interests and wanting to be near my elderly parents. So that somewhat limits my flexibility with the job market. But one does not need to be a paid preacher or evangelist to do outreach. My mom, (Jeanne Sullivan) did door knocking with me on the 25th, near the church building. She is near her 70's. Has a bad hip and struggles with knee problems. She is not in the best of health. Yet this lady, despite that, was out there in the Florida humidity on a Saturday with me and a new convert, Sara, doing outreach. I had a map printed of the area. Places checked off we had done and the place shown where we will go. I had sign up sheets and cards/hand outs for each person to put in their pockets, to leave at the door when someone was not home or to give to someone who answered the door. Door knocking is often demeaned. People say it does not work. It does. But one must put in the time to make it work. This Saturday, I went to homes on one side of the street and mom and Sara went together to the other side of the street to canvas. What we did, was invite folks to church and after giving this invite, we'd also invite them to sign up for a Bible study. If they say no to one thing, they may say yes to another. We only work an hour per event. In the past some have declined a study and instead choose to come to church. Later they were invited to a study and said yes. Recently their was a conversion due to this door knocking effort near the church building. This last event, we had 2 signatures on Jeanne's and Sara's end. I had two good social interactions, (in that they seemed interested in going to church) and ended up talking with a guy for half an hour.
Report 22: September
If you are looking for more social places for evangelism, then campus, door knocking, flea market venues, etc. And want to seek events in your area to do street evangelism, events like concerts, festivals, special charity walks, football games, etc, then it helps to have social event apps and links that you can access to learn what is going on each month. I have the "google map" phone app, it has an "events" tab that show upcoming social events. I click on the events I like and it let's me add the event to my google calendar. The internet has many phone apps for sharing upcoming events, like Ticket Master and Songkick. Find what web links and apps that work for you. Besides the above google app, I personally like Facebook "events." I can find social events for the month that are going with Facebook. I click on my Facebook "home" page to see the event tab. Also, Facebook has an app called local. This app shows the social events on Facebook and can connect with Google calendar's listed events. I also link on my laptop the Google Calendar site and the Facebook "events" page.
Note: for September through December, Ill be inactive in evangelism work. I wont be blogging. My dad has serious health issues, I need to focus on.
Note: for September through December, Ill be inactive in evangelism work. I wont be blogging. My dad has serious health issues, I need to focus on.
Passive and active evangelism
Some people share Jesus once every 3 years when the mood suits them or they pray for opportunities or say I'm doing "friendship evangelism," as a cop out to actively share Jesus. Nothing wrong with Friendship evangelism, but to many mean they will wait for the perfect time, chance and moment to share Jesus. Until then they sit and do nothing. Please know passive evangelism does not grow the church. Sermons and prayers on evangelism do not save souls. Platitudes do not fill the pews. Praying for opportunities do not grow the church. Making opportunities do.
Waiting around and waiting for a good time once a month, season or year, when it suits a person...is not going to grow the church. Active, aggressive, regular assertive evangelism will grow the church. Methods of street evangelism, door knocking, campus work, etc. Are active. These work. Evangelism works only when we do the work.
Waiting around and waiting for a good time once a month, season or year, when it suits a person...is not going to grow the church. Active, aggressive, regular assertive evangelism will grow the church. Methods of street evangelism, door knocking, campus work, etc. Are active. These work. Evangelism works only when we do the work.
2019
Report 23: March
Update: I know I have taken longer to begin the work, then planned. Alot has been happening with my parents health. But I intent to begin soon. I'm aiming for next month. I've put my evangelism group on hold as well as my own personal efforts. They are anxious to get started again too.
I like stuffing Bibles, it promotes the church teaching/worship location, salvation, etc. But for my work ahead, I've also ordered, WVB School, Bibles. They have the plan of salvation and the teachings of the true church, already placed for people to read. It is small...for a Bible, (though WVB School says they will make bigger Bibles soon). Wanted to share this with you... just as food for thought. If a Christian printed a book mark or pasted a small logo on the back with the church address, then the Bible would be all ready to go. If you want to check the WVB School Bible out, here is the link.
Evangelism work: The Jehovah Witness have taken over the Tampa, FL area, each morning, I do my "tent making" work, Uber and Lyft. I've not been able to get a job in the Tampa bay area of FL as a preacher or evangelist, (I am needing to stay in this area to be near my parents). It may take some time to find a job in such work. But in the mean time this is what I am doing.
Anyways...when I am driving in the mornings/afternoons, I see the evangelism outreach work of the Jehovah Witness. They have taken over my area, they are at bus stops, gym entrances, street corners, flea market area's, the parks, etc. In the morning and afternoons, I will see 2-3 people standing with their tracks, waiting for people to come up to them.
In the past, in my beginning work, I'd do the same. I'd work at the flea market, have flyers and Bible DVD's and wait....and wait....and wait. I'd have signs telling people I had free religious material and would like to study with them. Guess what happens when your not proactive? Nothing. I'd also stand and tell people to "take these." I'd pass out cards that had invites to church and cards that had Bible invites for studies. Did such work for a year and got 1 interested prospect. Their is nothing personal about handing someone a card and saying "please take this" then having them walk off. Nor in standing around like a smiling figurine.
The method of approaching people, in a warm, personal, effacing, humble, way...to ask them for a Bible study, and have them commit to it, by signing up for one is much more productive. Talking to people is personal. Interacting with people is personal. Getting them to commit, is a personal act. You won't always get yeses, nor will all those who gave signatures, respond back to texts about having a study. But people will say yes. And people will respond to texts for studies. If you put in the time.
Door knocking, works too. When a person is interacting with the people they meet, talking to them, smiling at them, shaking their hand, inviting them to church and offering them a free church flyer, then a personal study, results will come. They may say no, to the study, yet come to church..later. They may not visit the church, but read the salvation material and a few years from then, the right situation may spark them to want to make the change. I know of 2 new converts who responded in such a manner. They heard the truth...and later died with Christ, in baptism. Both are still coming to services. They changed when they faced certain circumstances (one person changed through meeting new Christians and getting encouragement from them, the other changed by having a personal trauma take place). Door knocking takes time and work. It is a commitment. Street evangelism/college evangelism is the same. But again...the results will come, if you put in the work and time.
I wanted to share a article I wrote on evangelism. It has stat's on the decline of the church, the kingdom regression we have had, in spiritual work and zeal. It has motivational truths from the Bible and outreach facts worth checking out.
I like stuffing Bibles, it promotes the church teaching/worship location, salvation, etc. But for my work ahead, I've also ordered, WVB School, Bibles. They have the plan of salvation and the teachings of the true church, already placed for people to read. It is small...for a Bible, (though WVB School says they will make bigger Bibles soon). Wanted to share this with you... just as food for thought. If a Christian printed a book mark or pasted a small logo on the back with the church address, then the Bible would be all ready to go. If you want to check the WVB School Bible out, here is the link.
Evangelism work: The Jehovah Witness have taken over the Tampa, FL area, each morning, I do my "tent making" work, Uber and Lyft. I've not been able to get a job in the Tampa bay area of FL as a preacher or evangelist, (I am needing to stay in this area to be near my parents). It may take some time to find a job in such work. But in the mean time this is what I am doing.
Anyways...when I am driving in the mornings/afternoons, I see the evangelism outreach work of the Jehovah Witness. They have taken over my area, they are at bus stops, gym entrances, street corners, flea market area's, the parks, etc. In the morning and afternoons, I will see 2-3 people standing with their tracks, waiting for people to come up to them.
In the past, in my beginning work, I'd do the same. I'd work at the flea market, have flyers and Bible DVD's and wait....and wait....and wait. I'd have signs telling people I had free religious material and would like to study with them. Guess what happens when your not proactive? Nothing. I'd also stand and tell people to "take these." I'd pass out cards that had invites to church and cards that had Bible invites for studies. Did such work for a year and got 1 interested prospect. Their is nothing personal about handing someone a card and saying "please take this" then having them walk off. Nor in standing around like a smiling figurine.
The method of approaching people, in a warm, personal, effacing, humble, way...to ask them for a Bible study, and have them commit to it, by signing up for one is much more productive. Talking to people is personal. Interacting with people is personal. Getting them to commit, is a personal act. You won't always get yeses, nor will all those who gave signatures, respond back to texts about having a study. But people will say yes. And people will respond to texts for studies. If you put in the time.
Door knocking, works too. When a person is interacting with the people they meet, talking to them, smiling at them, shaking their hand, inviting them to church and offering them a free church flyer, then a personal study, results will come. They may say no, to the study, yet come to church..later. They may not visit the church, but read the salvation material and a few years from then, the right situation may spark them to want to make the change. I know of 2 new converts who responded in such a manner. They heard the truth...and later died with Christ, in baptism. Both are still coming to services. They changed when they faced certain circumstances (one person changed through meeting new Christians and getting encouragement from them, the other changed by having a personal trauma take place). Door knocking takes time and work. It is a commitment. Street evangelism/college evangelism is the same. But again...the results will come, if you put in the work and time.
I wanted to share a article I wrote on evangelism. It has stat's on the decline of the church, the kingdom regression we have had, in spiritual work and zeal. It has motivational truths from the Bible and outreach facts worth checking out.
|
| ||||
I have seen so much evangelism taking place in Tampa, FL, I'd see a poor Latino come into a poor Latino community hospital and pass out flyers he had made. I read the flyer, it is spot on in matters of salvation. Their is something encouraging about such examples, even when it is misplaced at times, (like the Mormons and Jehovah Witness).
In my studies with people, I see some mature and bear 100 percent of fruit and zeal. Others through the years always staying a infant. Both were feed the same gospel, both were grounded. But one group accepted emotionally and mentally the full (grounding) message. The other group has chosen to grow when and where it suits them, spiritually. Both groups are an encouragement in the faith. In soul saving successes...this saying will ring in your heart.
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3 John 1:4
You will feel paternel towards them. In this scope, I'd encourage you if you study at a persons home, to make sure they attend services faithfully, that they are strong in the Word and have strong character. If the host, is a gossip, does not go to Sunday morning Bible class, tell's your new converts they don't need to come on Wednesday nights, by such example and teaching, the host can undermine your words from the Bible in matters of spiritual growth. When new converts don't come faithfully, they get weaker and weaker. They attend even less frequently. They start devaluing what the Bible says in other area's of their lives as well. They will make excuses for apathy, even while the zeal for daily living and active interactions with the world, burns bright.
When laying down the bedrock of grounding principles, in your teachings, make sure to get them around strong Christian influences to connect with and interact with. This is especially powerful when they are involved with such Christian examples in regular spiritual activities.
Though I have put of street/campus outreach....I have not been idle. I've made a website to promote the truth and I've been running ads to share Bible truths. Ads are a great way to reach people. I've comprised stat's and results from running Bible based ads. It will also give "how to" advise on running ads. It's an interesting read. You can also find more info here.
In my studies with people, I see some mature and bear 100 percent of fruit and zeal. Others through the years always staying a infant. Both were feed the same gospel, both were grounded. But one group accepted emotionally and mentally the full (grounding) message. The other group has chosen to grow when and where it suits them, spiritually. Both groups are an encouragement in the faith. In soul saving successes...this saying will ring in your heart.
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3 John 1:4
You will feel paternel towards them. In this scope, I'd encourage you if you study at a persons home, to make sure they attend services faithfully, that they are strong in the Word and have strong character. If the host, is a gossip, does not go to Sunday morning Bible class, tell's your new converts they don't need to come on Wednesday nights, by such example and teaching, the host can undermine your words from the Bible in matters of spiritual growth. When new converts don't come faithfully, they get weaker and weaker. They attend even less frequently. They start devaluing what the Bible says in other area's of their lives as well. They will make excuses for apathy, even while the zeal for daily living and active interactions with the world, burns bright.
When laying down the bedrock of grounding principles, in your teachings, make sure to get them around strong Christian influences to connect with and interact with. This is especially powerful when they are involved with such Christian examples in regular spiritual activities.
Though I have put of street/campus outreach....I have not been idle. I've made a website to promote the truth and I've been running ads to share Bible truths. Ads are a great way to reach people. I've comprised stat's and results from running Bible based ads. It will also give "how to" advise on running ads. It's an interesting read. You can also find more info here.
|
| ||||
Report 24: April
Time stamp 4/2/2019
The plan for the next couple of months is to focus on door knocking. I'll still be doing campus and street evangelism. Door knocking is a form of street evangelism, since it is street work. It's not the same as going up to someone on the street, but when your going up to strangers at their homes or in their front yards to talk to them about spiritual things it does have a similar context and form. Their is alot of interesting facts about door knocking. I've put on this site link here www.churchofchristevangelism.com/methods.html.
The link details why the JW's and Mormons are growing (through Door knocking). It details the average stat's for Mormon success in this work. And stat's from members in the Lord's body. The link shows success and results. Another good link on door knocking can be found here http://www.bible.ca/evangelism/e-door-knocking.htm.
See also a denominational link on the success details of door knocking.
Keep in mind, as with anything it takes time and hard work to gain results in any pursuit worth having, including door knocking.
The people who say door knocking does not work are those who expect maximum results with little effort. No where does such a expectation pan out in careers, education, relationships, fitness, etc. Anything is a process, it requires consistent investment and routine. Marriage does not happen on 1-3 dates. A successful job does not happen when no resume is shared and when no career seeking is done. A degree does not occur without a great deal of energy and study. A fitness goal is not obtained when the gym is visited once or twice or even a half dozen times. It tends to take months to gain results in these area's. Yet with door knocking if someone does it once a year with a few members from church for a Gospel Meeting, they sigh and say, well I guess door knocking does not work. Which is silly. Evangelism works. I have saved souls. I have grown churches. But it was through the process of being consistent. For example with door knocking, the last 7 door knocking (1 hour each) events I did with my group, (of the 3-4 people being split up as singles or in 2's,) yielded 2 contacts from which we had Bible studies. One of those studies led to a conversion.
You may ask, "why focus on door knocking." I am focusing on this work, for different reasons. 1. I have had success with it. I know it works. 2. I want to learn more about the mechanic's on the process. 3. Also, in the US and in the world, their are not always local colleges for outreach. I want to give another outreach venue on this blog. That is why I am focusing on door knocking. I want to better formulate this venue and share the idea's behind such work.
The plan for the next couple of months is to focus on door knocking. I'll still be doing campus and street evangelism. Door knocking is a form of street evangelism, since it is street work. It's not the same as going up to someone on the street, but when your going up to strangers at their homes or in their front yards to talk to them about spiritual things it does have a similar context and form. Their is alot of interesting facts about door knocking. I've put on this site link here www.churchofchristevangelism.com/methods.html.
The link details why the JW's and Mormons are growing (through Door knocking). It details the average stat's for Mormon success in this work. And stat's from members in the Lord's body. The link shows success and results. Another good link on door knocking can be found here http://www.bible.ca/evangelism/e-door-knocking.htm.
See also a denominational link on the success details of door knocking.
Keep in mind, as with anything it takes time and hard work to gain results in any pursuit worth having, including door knocking.
The people who say door knocking does not work are those who expect maximum results with little effort. No where does such a expectation pan out in careers, education, relationships, fitness, etc. Anything is a process, it requires consistent investment and routine. Marriage does not happen on 1-3 dates. A successful job does not happen when no resume is shared and when no career seeking is done. A degree does not occur without a great deal of energy and study. A fitness goal is not obtained when the gym is visited once or twice or even a half dozen times. It tends to take months to gain results in these area's. Yet with door knocking if someone does it once a year with a few members from church for a Gospel Meeting, they sigh and say, well I guess door knocking does not work. Which is silly. Evangelism works. I have saved souls. I have grown churches. But it was through the process of being consistent. For example with door knocking, the last 7 door knocking (1 hour each) events I did with my group, (of the 3-4 people being split up as singles or in 2's,) yielded 2 contacts from which we had Bible studies. One of those studies led to a conversion.
You may ask, "why focus on door knocking." I am focusing on this work, for different reasons. 1. I have had success with it. I know it works. 2. I want to learn more about the mechanic's on the process. 3. Also, in the US and in the world, their are not always local colleges for outreach. I want to give another outreach venue on this blog. That is why I am focusing on door knocking. I want to better formulate this venue and share the idea's behind such work.
The Door knocking process:
Prep work: How I get started....in planning the location.
Time stamp 4/42019
First I google my church address on "Google Maps." See link for my church address location. When I am on Google maps, (as the link shows), I can see the streets around the church building and the numbers of houses on each street. I can chart where I am going to go. I can pick the street(s) I want to walk down. I then will print the map out from the Google map page.
The below picture shows where I have gone with my evangelism group.
You can download it here for better a quality picture and personal view.
You will notice the blue x marks. These are the positive results we have had. The x mark on Philmore road lead to a contact having 2 Bible studies and regular church attendance for a few months. The Lakewood Ave x mark to the left of the screen led to a long discussion, the contact signing up for a Bible study. The study ended up not happening. But the long discussion and Bible study signature counts as a positive. The seed was planted. He later came and visited us. The Lakewood Ave x mark to the right of the screen was a positive. We were about to stop and did one more house. We talked with a guy for over an hour. He said he heard about baptism before and the Lord's church, (someone had planted the seed). And that he was interested in coming to church. Many Bible studies later...(after visiting the congregation and being invited to study), he's now a faithful member of God's family. (Note: when someone comes in from the community, ask them for a Bible study. It does us no good to do such work and have interested people visit, if we don't follow through.)
The map details: The work which was a total of 7 hours, from 7 different events.
The group was made up of 3-4 people. Going in 2's or individually.
We went on Saturday's. The times we began were around 10 AM-1 PM.
(Saturday's are good: more people tend to be home. I've heard of a JW who came at 7 AM...proper timing is also smart.)
Time stamp 4/42019
First I google my church address on "Google Maps." See link for my church address location. When I am on Google maps, (as the link shows), I can see the streets around the church building and the numbers of houses on each street. I can chart where I am going to go. I can pick the street(s) I want to walk down. I then will print the map out from the Google map page.
The below picture shows where I have gone with my evangelism group.
You can download it here for better a quality picture and personal view.
You will notice the blue x marks. These are the positive results we have had. The x mark on Philmore road lead to a contact having 2 Bible studies and regular church attendance for a few months. The Lakewood Ave x mark to the left of the screen led to a long discussion, the contact signing up for a Bible study. The study ended up not happening. But the long discussion and Bible study signature counts as a positive. The seed was planted. He later came and visited us. The Lakewood Ave x mark to the right of the screen was a positive. We were about to stop and did one more house. We talked with a guy for over an hour. He said he heard about baptism before and the Lord's church, (someone had planted the seed). And that he was interested in coming to church. Many Bible studies later...(after visiting the congregation and being invited to study), he's now a faithful member of God's family. (Note: when someone comes in from the community, ask them for a Bible study. It does us no good to do such work and have interested people visit, if we don't follow through.)
The map details: The work which was a total of 7 hours, from 7 different events.
The group was made up of 3-4 people. Going in 2's or individually.
We went on Saturday's. The times we began were around 10 AM-1 PM.
(Saturday's are good: more people tend to be home. I've heard of a JW who came at 7 AM...proper timing is also smart.)
When you go out to do such work...
1.. Print out the Google map to highlight the area your going to work at.
2. I'd encourage you to have other sectioned area's on the map as well. In case you surpass (in visiting) the first area, and you still have energy and desire, you can always visit another connected area in the neighborhood.
3. Record the last visited house address on printed map to know where you stopped.
Prep work: getting materials ready to share
When giving a invite to study or to attend church, it is good to have materials that have the church address and times of worship on it, to give to the person. This creates credibility. It proves you are who you say you are. Credibility creates more responses of trust. If someone is not home, I leave a a card by the door. People are less likely to respond to such material without direct interaction. But it can happen. And gives folks a opportunity to respond to the materials theme.
I use canva to make my materials. Canva is a online template site, where I can design content from premade templates. The site is free and the format for designing materials is pretty easy, once you fool around with it a bit. They have a wide range of templates, ranging from social media, to book, to bulletin, to business cards, to flyers, etc. After designing content you can download the material to print out or you can order the material to be printed out for a good price.
Course you can order stuff at a Christian store or make your own content through another venue. :)
I just want to share how I go about making content for my work.
If you want to see the materials I use when doing door knocking...
Church cards that show times of worship 1. 2.
Bible invite/church invite (post) card 1. 2.
I also recommend carrying a back pack or some item for holding Bible, study materials and outreach content. I've always got enough evangelism cards to pass out in my back pocket for the next few houses. Then I go into my back pack and get more.
I use canva to make my materials. Canva is a online template site, where I can design content from premade templates. The site is free and the format for designing materials is pretty easy, once you fool around with it a bit. They have a wide range of templates, ranging from social media, to book, to bulletin, to business cards, to flyers, etc. After designing content you can download the material to print out or you can order the material to be printed out for a good price.
Course you can order stuff at a Christian store or make your own content through another venue. :)
I just want to share how I go about making content for my work.
If you want to see the materials I use when doing door knocking...
Church cards that show times of worship 1. 2.
Bible invite/church invite (post) card 1. 2.
I also recommend carrying a back pack or some item for holding Bible, study materials and outreach content. I've always got enough evangelism cards to pass out in my back pocket for the next few houses. Then I go into my back pack and get more.
Methods in interaction...
The process that has led to results has varied. One of the people in my evangelism group invited someone to church, they came...they had studies. I did the same....same result. I have also focused on getting Bible study signatures for future studies. The people I've worked with have had success with that as well. The Mormon's don't dance around. They go up to door's, greet people with smiles on their faces, talk to them with enthusiasm, then invite folks to study then and there.
I'd encourage you to know what your going to say before you meet someone. And to have that firmly in mind. A script is something you write down, to get familiar with, for your future interactions with people. Below are to sample scripts I will be using. Scripts can always be updated, as one learns more and grows...
I'd encourage you to know what your going to say before you meet someone. And to have that firmly in mind. A script is something you write down, to get familiar with, for your future interactions with people. Below are to sample scripts I will be using. Scripts can always be updated, as one learns more and grows...
What things I will do (try out) concerning method(s)...
Script A. |
Script B. |
Script C. |
|
1. Knock on door. Greet person with friendliness and with a humble attitude. A "Meek as milk" attitude is not intimidating, nor does it create distrust. It is a much more approachable attitude, then arrogance, aloofness, etc.
2. I'll give my name and the context to being there. Example: "Hi, my name is _________, I'm from the church right up the street. I'm here passing out invites for our church." 3. (Invite 1) I then hand a flyer. Saying..."We'd love to have you come and visit sometime." 4. Then main goal (2) invite: which in this case is going to be asking someone to study. "Do you have a few moments to study the Bible with me? " 5. If the person says "yes," then excellent! If the person says, "I don't have time, " (maybe it's a female who is at home alone and is uncomfortable) have a Bible study sign-up sheet with you. Say something like, "That's fine. Would you be able to study another time?" "I can have a Sister from church come with me..." If the person says, "yes," give them the Bible study sign-up sheet. They can add their name, address and phone number (and if wished what days are best for them). If no, let them know you hope they can come by to worship sometime, be friendly, talk with them if they are interested. Sometimes they'll start talking about spiritual things...but even a having them talk about their lives, etc. is a win. It builds re pore. It increases their positive view of you and thus in what you were saying. They are more likely to visit the congregation and other venues may open up, through that. Notes: The steps in the methods, (1. 2.) are good formats for any type of invite. You then can give a invite tailored to your goals, invite to church, to sign up for a study, to a Gospel meeting, etc. Giving two invites increases the chances of a yes. Inviting to church and then to a study. I've invited someone to one thing for them to choose to do the other thing I invited them to do. The use of the phrase "a few moments," let's people know it's won't be a long time. When doing studies, you can begin the lesson and after 5 minutes ask if they want to keep going? The "few moments" makes the study more likely. And once they have invested in sitting down with you, they are more likely to continue with the study.
|
| ||||||||||
NOTE: These scripted phrases are guiding posts. They are pointers to use to help you out. Once you have practiced the script and are familiar with it, then...use the spirit behind the script, by speaking it, in your own words. You'll find in interactions with others, that you'll be conveying the points behind the script. But not the wording, word for word or the formula in the exact order above. That's fine. The point is to be grounded in the right things to say, (by going over the script). How you go about saying them is up to you.
For any form of introduction and invite. Including the ones above, I'd encourage you to practice speaking it in your bathroom mirror out loud, with personal warmth and enthusiasm. You don't have to use either of the methods I mentioned. But a script should be formed and well established in ones mind, before one goes out. Nerves can cause the words to fly out of a persons head, or cause one to give the invite with doubt. If someone is invited to a Bible study, and your making a face. That does not invoke feelings of "yes" he's seriously wanting to study with me.
When your reading out loud at a mirror, look at your warm, smiling enthusiastic face. When you do these things, your cementing these verbal and physical gestures down into your unconscious. Do this till your familiar with the script. Since it is your invite, you should know what your going to say. Also, do this the day before the event, when your going to be doing door knocking outreach. Know you don't have to be perfect when doing outreach. Mistakes will happen. I have made plenty through the years. But we do need to be prepared. I have dropped the ball so to speak in outreach in the past. But I have also brought others to the Lord. Mistakes are part of the process of doing this work. Know this...the more you do such (outreach) work, the more comfortable (and better) you will get.
I know the Mormons and JW's don't invite people to their denominations to visit. They simply invite people who come to the door to a "Bible" study. I can see why they do this. If they invite people to come to their congregation for worship, then they would also need to make sure they see them when they come as visitors (if they come) and then give them, an invite for a study. Those visitors... would then either say yes or no. It's two invites for one result. Now it works, I have seen it work. But it is also, more work. I personally think it is worth it.
When your reading out loud at a mirror, look at your warm, smiling enthusiastic face. When you do these things, your cementing these verbal and physical gestures down into your unconscious. Do this till your familiar with the script. Since it is your invite, you should know what your going to say. Also, do this the day before the event, when your going to be doing door knocking outreach. Know you don't have to be perfect when doing outreach. Mistakes will happen. I have made plenty through the years. But we do need to be prepared. I have dropped the ball so to speak in outreach in the past. But I have also brought others to the Lord. Mistakes are part of the process of doing this work. Know this...the more you do such (outreach) work, the more comfortable (and better) you will get.
I know the Mormons and JW's don't invite people to their denominations to visit. They simply invite people who come to the door to a "Bible" study. I can see why they do this. If they invite people to come to their congregation for worship, then they would also need to make sure they see them when they come as visitors (if they come) and then give them, an invite for a study. Those visitors... would then either say yes or no. It's two invites for one result. Now it works, I have seen it work. But it is also, more work. I personally think it is worth it.
Most common statements of refusal when giving a invite to study the Bible
Note: these comments can also be applied to campus work, street evangelism, flea market work, etc as well.
1. I already have a church, (may mention denomination).
2. I am saved already, (or something like that, I said the Sinners prayer, accepted Jesus as my Lord, etc).
3. I read my Bible (and sometimes I know my Bible).
These comments rarely happen. But they do never the less.
4. I don't believe in God, (I'm an atheist or agnostic).
5. I am Buddhist (or some other non "Christian religion, Islam, Hindu).
Gently and with personal warmth say...
1. Whether you’re at a church or not, Bible study is always a good thing to do.
2. Whether your saved or not, Bible study is always a good thing to do.
3. That's fantastic! :) Reading your Bible is so important. I may have some useful Bible facts you may not have found.
I'd love to share them with you, if you’re interested.
4. Do you have time to talk about it. I got some good resources that we can go over. (Have materials you can share).
5. Do you have time to talk about it. I got some good resources that we can go over. (Have materials you can share).
Here is my website https://www.churchofchriststreetcampusevangelism.com/church-of-christ-evangelism---free-material-store-page.html
I have small cards, that can be placed in ones Bible, that can share such content with people who are atheist/agnostic, Buddhist, Islam, (I don't have any on Hindu, but the cards for atheist/agnostic's prove the Bible is inspired and can be used for that purpose, to convince the Hindu). Scroll to the bottom of the page to access the cards.
You may want to compile a more comprehensive study, as well. Apologetic Press has lesson plans for people who believe the Bible is false, (which would comprise all the groups above). If you can convince them of it's inspiration, you can win them over to what it teaches. The lesson plans can be accessed to download here http://apologeticspress.org/homestudycourses.aspx.
They also can be purchased at this stores site.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Keep in mind these questions and answers are a script. Picture someone saying this to you and your reply.
You can also practice in a mirror. To get facial and vocal patterns down, (as well as the words).
When practicing in your reply speak with personal warm.
2. I am saved already, (or something like that, I said the Sinners prayer, accepted Jesus as my Lord, etc).
3. I read my Bible (and sometimes I know my Bible).
These comments rarely happen. But they do never the less.
4. I don't believe in God, (I'm an atheist or agnostic).
5. I am Buddhist (or some other non "Christian religion, Islam, Hindu).
Gently and with personal warmth say...
1. Whether you’re at a church or not, Bible study is always a good thing to do.
2. Whether your saved or not, Bible study is always a good thing to do.
3. That's fantastic! :) Reading your Bible is so important. I may have some useful Bible facts you may not have found.
I'd love to share them with you, if you’re interested.
4. Do you have time to talk about it. I got some good resources that we can go over. (Have materials you can share).
5. Do you have time to talk about it. I got some good resources that we can go over. (Have materials you can share).
Here is my website https://www.churchofchriststreetcampusevangelism.com/church-of-christ-evangelism---free-material-store-page.html
I have small cards, that can be placed in ones Bible, that can share such content with people who are atheist/agnostic, Buddhist, Islam, (I don't have any on Hindu, but the cards for atheist/agnostic's prove the Bible is inspired and can be used for that purpose, to convince the Hindu). Scroll to the bottom of the page to access the cards.
You may want to compile a more comprehensive study, as well. Apologetic Press has lesson plans for people who believe the Bible is false, (which would comprise all the groups above). If you can convince them of it's inspiration, you can win them over to what it teaches. The lesson plans can be accessed to download here http://apologeticspress.org/homestudycourses.aspx.
They also can be purchased at this stores site.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Keep in mind these questions and answers are a script. Picture someone saying this to you and your reply.
You can also practice in a mirror. To get facial and vocal patterns down, (as well as the words).
When practicing in your reply speak with personal warm.
| most_common_statements_of_refusal_when_giving_a_invite_to_study_the_bible.docx |
The materials I use...
The materials I use for Bible studies....are at my online store.
They are free. I've had success with them. The store site will explain the details about these outreach tools.
The study materials are titled, "The 3 card Salvation plan" and "The 3 card Grounding plan."
They are free. I've had success with them. The store site will explain the details about these outreach tools.
The study materials are titled, "The 3 card Salvation plan" and "The 3 card Grounding plan."
Remember this is a process...
Please keep in mind this is a process. Other groups know this: The Mormons go to 1,000 homes before they get a study. For them it is about consistency and hard work. These are hard stat's for Mormons. From the link I shared earlier in the April blog section, you will see our stat's are much smaller for results. What I am doing in recording my door knocking work...is to establish concrete results from my own personal experience. I want to know the stat's to get a study or a church visit. I want to know the best methods for door knocking. I want to share such findings with you.
I thoroughly expect in my personal work, that results will take time. It does with the Mormons, JW's but they get results because they know it is a process and that the investment of long hours, long weeks, months, will yield fruit if applied.
Mormons know 1,000 houses for a Bible study is worth the work. Can the Lord's people say the same thing? If that was what it took for His saints to get a result?
With campus work, I have gotten 10 Bible study signatures in a few hours. I've had studies. Same with street evangelism. I've figured out campus and street work. Now...what I want to do is to also establish "the need to know" details for door knocking.
Time stamp 4/4/2019
I thoroughly expect in my personal work, that results will take time. It does with the Mormons, JW's but they get results because they know it is a process and that the investment of long hours, long weeks, months, will yield fruit if applied.
Mormons know 1,000 houses for a Bible study is worth the work. Can the Lord's people say the same thing? If that was what it took for His saints to get a result?
With campus work, I have gotten 10 Bible study signatures in a few hours. I've had studies. Same with street evangelism. I've figured out campus and street work. Now...what I want to do is to also establish "the need to know" details for door knocking.
Time stamp 4/4/2019
News and more door knocking details...
Time stamp 4/30/2019
It's been a busy few weeks. One of the new converts, Cyndia (she's been a Christian for 3 years now) has been inviting her friends and the people she knows to church. She invited a neighbor, named Aaron to church, he's a nice guy, a 20 something going to college. I got Bible studies set up with him. Cyndia, also invited a great guy, named Brian, who is in his 30's, has moved from Michigan, a month ago. He's zealous for evangelism and knows his Bibles. I asked him, if he'd like to study. He said yes. Another (non Christian) lady, Karen, (who has been visiting our church)is also coming now to the studies too. All of us are meeting at one of the ladies from churches, home, Darlene McCray.
A (Christian) lady, named Louis, has rode her bike part way to church, then has taken the bus, has started getting rides from church members. She has been inviting 2 of her friends, from her apartment, Amanda and Mike. Jack (the guy with purple shirt in picture) approached one of her friends, who has been coming. He asked her if she wanted to have a Bible study. She said yes. I'll be there for back up and moral support. Something to be said about new convert zeal and "friendship evangelism." My mom, Jeanne Sullivan (is the lady standing next to me in the picture, I'm in white, she is in white) has been studying with Karen the church visitor I mentioned, as well. She was the first to ask her. Karen is in her late 30's or earlier 40's. A very soft spoken and gentle spirit.
Jeanne Sullivan, has surgery hip in a few days, yet she came to do door knocking. It's hard for her to walk. Yet she was there...walking with a Cain. My dad, Bill Sullivan, is having radiation shots for his cancer, (he is in the green shirt). This man is tired all the time and struggles with this medication sometimes. Yet he still came. In healthy churches, (that grow and support one another) it is the 10 percent who tend to do most of the work in a given field, (like evangelism, or hospitality, or writing visitors/sick/unfaithful encouragement cards, or in teaching Bible class, etc). For different fields of service, it's usually not always the same 10 percent. But in a strong church, for church member activity, 10 percent is a solid showing. If a church can not even depend on the few, (to work) then it has no future in grown. One must be able to depend on the people in the congregation, in the different fields of work a church does. Otherwise things will gradually fall apart. The North Blvd church has about 50 people, so 5 coming is a good number, (one of the ladies, Kim. Blue/white shirt is a faithful member at another church nearby).
I am planning on having the evangelism group go door knocking on the last Saturday for the next few months. The group is mostly comprised of the North Blvd church of Christ, (that I'm with). On April 27th we met up at the church building. Within the church class room, (see picture) I handed out maps of the location we were going to canvas. And materials to (pass out, tracks, flyers, cards). The group were wanting to focus on inviting people to visit our congregation. Asking people to do Bible studies...was not something they wanted to focus on. Which is fine. We've had visitors from the community from doing this work. And have invited some of those who have visited to a Bible study. We've had people say yes. The group was split into pairs of 2. Below you can see the places the 3 sub groups canvased. We worked for an hour. We went to 35 homes. We reached 9 people (directly). Of course we also left church invites at people's door too. It's hard to say after inviting people to visit, a few days later, wither they will or not. One gentlemen waited 2 months, before he came by. But we do get visitors from doing this work. Forgive the chicken scratch. But the picture below details what has been done.
| door_knocking_map_phase_1__2_.png |
Report 25: May
Choices...in interacting with the opposite sex.
Time stamp 5/2/2019
I have been apart of get togethers. I have met up with preachers for "personal study evangelism" or "coffee shop evangelism.," (this outreach is geared to perk interest in others through meeting together in a public forum, like a restaurant or coffee house, to study the Bible. People will come up from time to time and ask "what are you studying," (or the like). They can be invited to the study (or a future study) and/or be given materials about the church and salvation).
In the different seasons of my life, I've interacted with different saints in such work and other outreach activities. While doing "personal study evangelism," I've seen some (married) men burn and plainly undress a woman right there, while conversing with her. I've seen men leering at a woman, while talking about the Bible and watching that lady in the store move about.
Outreach is not for those who can not control their passions.
Evangelism, is not for those people who see a sex object instead of a soul needing a Savior.
I know we have desires. But they can and should be met at home. A married man or woman, should find emotional and physical satiation in their mate. A single person or someone in a relationship, (yet unmarried), should seek non sinful outlets to remove the sexual desire from their bodies.
Removing the "fire" from one's body, should be done by all groups, (single/relationship/married) before doing outreach. Let us never give the Enemy power over us and undermine God's work.
Note: I also, recommend, a cold shower, (taking a hot shower, then turning it to warm for 5 minutes, then to cool for 5 minutes, then to cold for 5 minutes. This maybe uncomfortable at first, but if done daily for a week, you will begin to get used to it). You've see the TV sitcoms that tell a man smitten, to take a cold shower. It actually does work to dampen one's sexual urges and desires.
I have studied with women alone in homes and in public social forms, etc. I've not had a problem.
But if your not comfortable with going door knocking alone (due to personal sexual reasons)....here are some options.
I have been apart of get togethers. I have met up with preachers for "personal study evangelism" or "coffee shop evangelism.," (this outreach is geared to perk interest in others through meeting together in a public forum, like a restaurant or coffee house, to study the Bible. People will come up from time to time and ask "what are you studying," (or the like). They can be invited to the study (or a future study) and/or be given materials about the church and salvation).
In the different seasons of my life, I've interacted with different saints in such work and other outreach activities. While doing "personal study evangelism," I've seen some (married) men burn and plainly undress a woman right there, while conversing with her. I've seen men leering at a woman, while talking about the Bible and watching that lady in the store move about.
Outreach is not for those who can not control their passions.
Evangelism, is not for those people who see a sex object instead of a soul needing a Savior.
I know we have desires. But they can and should be met at home. A married man or woman, should find emotional and physical satiation in their mate. A single person or someone in a relationship, (yet unmarried), should seek non sinful outlets to remove the sexual desire from their bodies.
Removing the "fire" from one's body, should be done by all groups, (single/relationship/married) before doing outreach. Let us never give the Enemy power over us and undermine God's work.
Note: I also, recommend, a cold shower, (taking a hot shower, then turning it to warm for 5 minutes, then to cool for 5 minutes, then to cold for 5 minutes. This maybe uncomfortable at first, but if done daily for a week, you will begin to get used to it). You've see the TV sitcoms that tell a man smitten, to take a cold shower. It actually does work to dampen one's sexual urges and desires.
I have studied with women alone in homes and in public social forms, etc. I've not had a problem.
But if your not comfortable with going door knocking alone (due to personal sexual reasons)....here are some options.
- Involve your husband/wife or boyfriend/girlfriend in this work. The preparation of door knocking and the work itself can be deeply bonding. This actively will also be richly rewarding in how in brings you both closer to God, (and each other).
- If you have a family, involve your son or daughter. Even if they are young, they can come along and learn. It's a great (spiritual) growing experience and will deeply impress upon them the need to serve God spiritually. Such inclusion can affect them the rest of their lives. I knew of a preacher who (thoughtfully) would take his little grandson with him, when visiting others.
- Invite a close female friend or male friend to do this with you. A best friend should be interested in supporting your goals, (as you are theirs). This would be a great way to serve God and also spent time with a buddy.
- Invite your church preacher or elder to come along. Hopefully your at a church, where such support is given.
- Invite a person you think would come along, a brother or sister in your local congregation, or a member from another faithful congregation. You can keep asking till you get a yes. With anything, if you seek long enough, you should find a worker, interested in such activities.
- If you don't have someone to go door knocking with you. Instead of offering to study with them inside, you can ask them to sign up for a study at a future date, where you can have another person present.
- You can invite them to come by and visit your congregation and share some materials about your church group.
It's personal...
Law of Averages: If you ask enough people for a Bible study you will get a "yes," if you get enough "yes's" (for a study) you'll get a conversion, get enough conversions you will grow your church. Outreach is about numbers, it's about the work required to meet people and get interactions. The more people reached, the more results will come.
Yet it must also be personal...Key factors need to be established. Have a plan, know of a format that works. For example, activities that are connected to personal interactions, work. Personal methods of outreach can be done through door knocking, street evangelism, campus evangelism, flea market evangelism. Such personal interactive formats play a role in results.
Approaching people (with warmth and enthusiasm) and talking to people is important. Doing poor methodology, like holding up a sign and doing nothing, (but standing around) will get you little to no results. Only passing out materials, (with no real social interaction) will get you little to no results. Social interactions are needed. Even brief ones that require a interaction and commitment, to some level. If you talk to people, if you get someone (to commit) to sign up for a Bible study, or talk to someone and have them (commit to) do a study then and there, that's good methodology. The more social interaction the better. Just talking with someone outside their door for 30 minutes, is a win, (in door knocking).
Now, I am not saying flyers/tracts in themselves won't work. I have heard of stories where they have. But the odds of getting a result, go up, when their is a personal interaction, (a commitment to study, a discussion, a good interaction where people connected, etc).
Yet it must also be personal...Key factors need to be established. Have a plan, know of a format that works. For example, activities that are connected to personal interactions, work. Personal methods of outreach can be done through door knocking, street evangelism, campus evangelism, flea market evangelism. Such personal interactive formats play a role in results.
Approaching people (with warmth and enthusiasm) and talking to people is important. Doing poor methodology, like holding up a sign and doing nothing, (but standing around) will get you little to no results. Only passing out materials, (with no real social interaction) will get you little to no results. Social interactions are needed. Even brief ones that require a interaction and commitment, to some level. If you talk to people, if you get someone (to commit) to sign up for a Bible study, or talk to someone and have them (commit to) do a study then and there, that's good methodology. The more social interaction the better. Just talking with someone outside their door for 30 minutes, is a win, (in door knocking).
Now, I am not saying flyers/tracts in themselves won't work. I have heard of stories where they have. But the odds of getting a result, go up, when their is a personal interaction, (a commitment to study, a discussion, a good interaction where people connected, etc).
Perceptions...
Beginning any new thing can be intimidating. Whether it is door knocking, campus work, street evangelism, etc, the mind may imagine fearful interactions, getting arrested, being attacked physically, being verbally assaulted, being harassed, having verbal angry confrontations, etc.. I know a guy (Brian) who passes out flyers at the mall, the park, Walmart, the public street walk ways, etc. He's thinking about going to the beach to do the same. Besides handing out flyers Brian also talks to folks about Jesus. Most of the people are nice or just ignore him. When you do this work, you will notice the same.
I've been doing evangelism for awhile. I have worked the streets, I've done the flea market, the colleges, I've done door to door, etc, (approaching strangers). On rare occasion, people may curse and walk off. The worst reactions I've had, were from doing door knocking, people may get angry and say they are not interested in a colorful way. But after that brief exchange, the rudeness is done and life will go on. You'll get a thick skin after awhile. And the good results from doing this work, will be worth it. The mind may imagine extreme thoughts due to fear. But when you do this work, you will see they are just that, extreme thoughts. Your not going to be tackled or mobbed, etc. If at Walmart, you may be politely asked to leave. In most situations people will be polite, no matter what internal feelings they have for what your doing, (good or bad). You will find the majority of people, are passive in showing negative feelings.
Now I am not saying, don't use good judgement. You can still put yourself in dangerous situations. Example: If your doing door knocking, as a female and a strong young man, (alone in his home), wants you to come into his house, to study, please use common sense. Such a person can overpower a sister in Christ. Have good strategies in place for such scenarios, (strategies like, 1. have a brother in Christ with you, or 2. invite him to a fast food place near by to study, or 3. have him sign up for a future study, where you can have a brother with you). Example: Passing out flyers at night in the bad part of town, is not a good idea. Just use common sense. Trust your instincts. Listen to your gut.
I've been doing evangelism for awhile. I have worked the streets, I've done the flea market, the colleges, I've done door to door, etc, (approaching strangers). On rare occasion, people may curse and walk off. The worst reactions I've had, were from doing door knocking, people may get angry and say they are not interested in a colorful way. But after that brief exchange, the rudeness is done and life will go on. You'll get a thick skin after awhile. And the good results from doing this work, will be worth it. The mind may imagine extreme thoughts due to fear. But when you do this work, you will see they are just that, extreme thoughts. Your not going to be tackled or mobbed, etc. If at Walmart, you may be politely asked to leave. In most situations people will be polite, no matter what internal feelings they have for what your doing, (good or bad). You will find the majority of people, are passive in showing negative feelings.
Now I am not saying, don't use good judgement. You can still put yourself in dangerous situations. Example: If your doing door knocking, as a female and a strong young man, (alone in his home), wants you to come into his house, to study, please use common sense. Such a person can overpower a sister in Christ. Have good strategies in place for such scenarios, (strategies like, 1. have a brother in Christ with you, or 2. invite him to a fast food place near by to study, or 3. have him sign up for a future study, where you can have a brother with you). Example: Passing out flyers at night in the bad part of town, is not a good idea. Just use common sense. Trust your instincts. Listen to your gut.
Bible study tips:
Note: if your studying with people who have ADD, mental illness, or other learning impediments, they may get overwhelmed or antsy after a short period of study. Take a break with them. You can grab a bit to eat, just chat, walk outside, etc. Then resume, when you feel they are ready. It is better to do this, then stop the study all together. For if you only study 5-10-15 minutes at a time, the grounding will take months, instead of weeks. Also, one can study with folks, (of any mental level) multi times weekly. If they are willing, this will speed things along, (especially if you have new convert classes at church on Sunday/Wednesday).
Mind hack: social technique.
Mind hack: every morning look in the mirror and pretend your greeting someone. Verbally say, "hi, my name is _________, it's a pleasure to meet you. What's your name?" Practice saying this phrase with warmth and enthusiasm. By doing this exercise daily, you will become naturally more social, personal, enthusiastic, friendly, warm, in your interactions. This exercise will help in your evangelism work in doing door knocking or other outreach methods. This will also change your interpersonal life.
When you speak enthusiastically about having a Bible study, that is attractive. More so then being unenthusiastic about what you are presenting. Have you ever had someone come up to you and in a dead tone invite you to do something? How did that make you feel?
Probably such an invite would be unimpressive. Have you ever had someone warmly and enthusiastically invite you to do something? How did that make you feel? Probably such an invite would have gotten our attention.
Visibly excitement, warmth, love, happiness, enthusiasm, are things that have an effect.
How we present a Gospel invite makes a difference. :)
Greet folks in evangelism, as if they are your best friend. Pretend your greeting and interacting with your best friend. In evangelism, in any format of life, taking on this behavior/attitude will increase your social power and connectivity.
When you speak enthusiastically about having a Bible study, that is attractive. More so then being unenthusiastic about what you are presenting. Have you ever had someone come up to you and in a dead tone invite you to do something? How did that make you feel?
Probably such an invite would be unimpressive. Have you ever had someone warmly and enthusiastically invite you to do something? How did that make you feel? Probably such an invite would have gotten our attention.
Visibly excitement, warmth, love, happiness, enthusiasm, are things that have an effect.
How we present a Gospel invite makes a difference. :)
Greet folks in evangelism, as if they are your best friend. Pretend your greeting and interacting with your best friend. In evangelism, in any format of life, taking on this behavior/attitude will increase your social power and connectivity.
Outreach activities...
Time stamp 5/20/2019
It's a busy season. Jack Adams, a older man in his 70's, is a new member of the church I go to, (North Blvd). He's very interested in evangelism. He has experience in this area. Lois Matthews is a lady of the faith, that has been coming to the North Blvd church lately, these last few months. She used to ride her bike part way and then take the bus. But she has a young (college age) man, from the church, named Sean Billington who picks her up now. When Lois comes, she brings/invites her apartment friends, (Mike and Angelica), to come to church with her.
Jack has invited Lois and her friends to study at their apartment. They agreed. The study was outside in the apartment picnic area. Lois and her friends are somewhat emotionally and mentally challenged. The apartment complex hosts people with these same issues. Jack is thinking about inviting other folks who live in this apartment complex to future studies, each week on Wednesday's. He's asking Lois and her friends, to invite folks too. This Friday we are going to the apartment complex to invite people to these Wednesday Bible studies. I'll be helping Jack with the Bible studies. It's a good idea...
Places like nursing homes, apartment complexes that house people with disabilities, those who are overcoming substance abuse, etc. are good groups to aim for. If people are infirm, lonely, hurting, emotionally struggling, poor, etc. they are more likely to seek spiritual solutions and answers to life's problems. Such people are more inclined to ask questions and talk about spiritual issues.
______
Update: 5/24/2019
Door knocking event: Today Jack and I went to Northside (apt) where Lois and her friends live. This is a GOV complex for poor people and disabled people. We meet up at the parking lot to talk and had flyers to pass out about the upcoming events, (Wed Bible study in apt picnic area at 10 AM). We were planning on going to people's doors and giving a flyer to those who were interested. We ran into Lois and her friends, (Angelic and Mike). She was excited to do this with us and went to the doors to invite people, (it's a small complex and a close nit group). The number of people at Northside were about 40 people. Lois new just about everyone. She would knock on the door and greet folks and invite folks to the study or Jack would when the door was opened. The invite would go something like this, "we are having a Bible study in the picnic area here, would you like to come, it will be at 10 AM on Wednesdays?" We talked with about 17 people. We had 6 interested people, who said "yes."
The majority of the people there were in their 40-60's, and were poor and single. They were struggling with mental or emotional issues. We met some friendly folks. One lady wanted to be prayed for. So Jack prayed with her, for the requests she made. Another lady wanted a certain chapter in Psalms read to her, because she has problems reading. Jack did that too.
_____
Update: 5/29/2019
We had 7 people come for the study, (not including Jack, myself, Lois and her friend Mike). We had 11 total. Lois, (who is a member of the church) had chairs put out around her apartment door. We still did not have enough seats. Folks had to sit on the stairs near her door. One of the ladies mentioned she'd like to go to church. The study was good, their was lots of participation and comments. One of the ladies did not have a Bible. She literally did not own one. I gave her an extra I had. The look she gave me was priceless.
_____
Update: 6/11/2019
Last Wednesday on 6/5/2019 we (Jack Adams and myself) had our second Bible study get together outside at the Northside (apt). We had Lois's apartment friends, Angelia and Mike come. A married couple from our church, Regie and Janice, heard about the study and wanted to come. So they were there, (I'll go into more about them and what they are doing to help, in this months blog). We had two from last class come, Nancy and Paulette. Joyce was new. Also we had a lady named, Sally who just moved into the apt. Jesse (a 20 something guy) who walked by, was invited to join, he did. Most of the people there, where women in their 40-60's.
Jack Adams, (who is a seasoned evangelist. Saved 100 souls one year.) has a good idea. In our studies, we get alot of people with different back grounds. It tends to be a large group. We wanted to introduce to the group, needful lessons like, grace, God's love, Jesus' sacrifice, the seriousness of sin, judgment of God, etc. But nothing that would perhaps produce a debate, (details of salvation/true church). We don't want one of the participants to get angry and hostile and turn the group against the study. Through this public group study, we having our foot in the door, so to speak. This group study is building trust and connections. But our goal with this group study is to approach folks while there and invite them to individual studies with us.
In our second study, I shared a Bible devotional, on the seriousness of sin, what Christ did in response to that sin, and that we need to do something, though I was vague. This was a interactive study, (where I asked questions and had people read scripture). We asked before the study and after the study, if people wanted to go to church. We had three people who wanted to have rides to worship with us, Janice and Regie offered to pick everyone up.
One of the ladies, Nancy, asked about her salvation. She wanted to know if she could be lost. I said, "that's a great question, that would be hard to answer that in a few minutes here, ask Jack to study with you on this. He reads his Bible and knows His Bible. He can go into detail with you from the Bible, about this." She agreed. We studied with her a few days later on Friday, 6/7/2019. We met up where we have our group studies, (outside of Sister Lois's apartment door). Lois wanted to join us. Also Mike was outside and joined us. Jack Adams went into detail about salvation and answered her questions. Nancy was not sure if God loved her, or that she could be loved, in the sin's she struggled with, (her temper/cursing). Jack shared with her what the Bible said, in matters that concerned her. He invited to to be baptized. Nancy said she needed to think about it. But that she's be there on Sunday. She was worried people would look down on her, if she came to church in her shorts and shirt. I said, we won't care. On Sunday she was there for Janice and Regie to pick up. She said she'd wear her only dress, "even though it had paint on it." The others were no shows...but it was so good to have Nancy come. After Bible class I talked with her. Nancy said she wants to come to this church more, (Sunday night she was there, too). During Sunday morning...after the preacher, Kenny Fields gave his sermon and invited people to come forward to be saved in the waters of baptism, Nancy came forwards. See this months (June) blog to learn more...
During our study with Nancy, Mike had some questions. We set up a study with him for the following Monday, 6/10/2019. We met up at his apartment and studied in his living room. We talked with Mike at length about salvation and discussed denomination-ism. Before going into the scriptures, Mike shared how he was saved at the age of 19, when "I did what it said in acts 2:38 for forgiveness." He detailed the story of being baptized in the back yard and how it made him feel spiritually refreshed. We talked to him about the importance of worshiping at a NT Bible based church. Mike said he'll quiet coming to the denomination he attends on Sunday morning, and fully come to worship with us. I offered to pick him up for services. I'm already picking up Brian...another guy I'm studying with. Who lives on the other side of town. But I'm happy to do this...
Some thoughts that hurt personal work and cause people to be lost are these...(it's important to mention these things, because you will come across these issues in outreach).
1. The false teaching/notion: If someone is baptized the right Bible way for the right Bible reasons, but by someone who maybe ignorant in other matters, (Bible authority, church worship, etc). then it does not count. Who am I to say, to someone who has been saved through Bible based baptism, that it does not count? That they are not really saved. When the scriptures are silent on such teachings? It is true, that such people need to be grounded. But they should not be barred from being included in the kingdom. We have no Bible authority to do so. Christ says woe to those who, "shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces." Matthew 23:13
This false teaching is spreading across the US and in foreign places, like the Philippines. We need to be careful of this false doctrine.
We have no Bible authority to say to someone who has been saved the way the Bible teaches, "your not saved." If someone is saved but is not aware of the other truths of God's Word, then we need to do what Priscilla and Aquila did. We need to "invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately." Acts 18:25-26
Results from this false doctrine.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
On Thursday's an elderly lady, in her late 70's named Darlene McCray has me teaching people, at her house. She just started this up again. It's been awhile. Keep in mind, I've been out of town in CA. I came back and had alot of transitional work to do for awhile. At last, I've finally been able to get into evangelism fully. In this mind-frame: Darlene has started her Bible classes up again, in her home. She invites people who visit the North Blvd church, to the study. Darlene also invites her neighbors and friends. Other's have invited people to this study too. In the past, (before CA) in our studies, people have been brought to the Lord, through her doing this work.
Also, I am managing my evangelism group. As you know, we do an event once each month. We are doing door knocking at 10 AM, near the North Blvd church building this coming Saturday, on May 25th. The group is slowly growing in number. A sister, named Janice, has never done door knocking before. She is excited and nervous. She'll be joining us. We will go in two's and keep our groups close together. We'll only work an hour. It's important to keep pace where everyone is at in comfort level and growth.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cold Approach...
Besides door knocking, I'm also going to begin focusing on doing "cold approach" evangelism. Click my evangelism link here, to learn the specific's about this method. I love this method. People are everywhere. This form of outreach can be used anywhere you go. You can use it when at the mall, gym, beach, etc.
I'm going to detail this further down the road on this blog and on the link I shared above. But let me give you 2 examples.
Example 1: I go to Crunch Gym. It is a small and friendly place where people workout and can meet new folks. A denominational evangelist, named William Conner, goes there to pump iron. He looks like a Greek warrior and is a super friendly guy. What William does when he goes to the gym, each day, is talk to people. He builds connections. He makes people get to know him. He makes friends. When William talks to folks, he'll invite them to his weekly Bible study group at St Joseph's Hospital's cafeteria on a given evening. When William gave the invite to me, he said something like this, "I have a Bible study men's class, I teach, would you be interested in coming?" I said yes, I gave William my number, he texted me, I got the time and place from him.
I go to the gym and have done the same thing. I have gotten yes's and no's. I don't go up to someone and give the invite right away. I start a conversation first. It's like asking a girl or boy out, when you where a teen. You did not walk up and immediately ask for their number or ask them out on a date. You talked with them first, build a re pore, then you gave the (date) invite. Same thing with cold approach. This may seem hard. But the more you practice the easier it gets. The link details this more. It shared exercises to do to be able to do this kind of interaction with others, naturally and comfortably.
Example 2: Last Tuesday on May 14 while at Staples, (I was trying to make some evangelism materials), I talked with the 20 something, staff member working at the copy center, named Ariel. It was not a long talk, nor was it a soul penetrating discussion. Ariel was frustrated that the electricity went out in the store. We talked about prices for some materials I wanted printed. I related with her frustrations. I was warm and friendly. Before leaving, I invited her to come to Darlene's Bible study group, (on Thursday's) she said "yes."
I have not done cold approach long enough to build a baseline of stat success. But as with anything, (street, campus, door knocking, cold approach) you will get a certain number of verbal or written commitments from people. From those numbers, you will get a lesser number of people who follow through. I don't want to go down the rabbit hole of stat's with street evangelism and campus work. If you've followed the blog so far. Your aware of them. See the blog post under, "Report 7." You will have read about getting written signature commitments to a study and how a percentage of those contacts actually follow through.
From those who commit, it's the smaller percentage that will actually come. The larger the invite, the larger the percentage. For friends/relatives the percentage increases. For strangers the percentage number decreases. But both groups will come, if your invites aim for high numbers. And you invite consistently.
Like anything in life...a segment will show up from those who "committed" to come.
Secular examples: If you invite 150 strangers to go paint-balling with you. 20 may say they will come. 5 actually show up. If you invite 50 friends and relatives, to your Birthday, 30 people may say they will come, yet you may have 10 who actually show up. Believe me, (with time and work) in evangelism, the numbers add up. I have been so swamped (in the past) with Bible studies I had to cancel doing evangelism events.
It's a busy season. Jack Adams, a older man in his 70's, is a new member of the church I go to, (North Blvd). He's very interested in evangelism. He has experience in this area. Lois Matthews is a lady of the faith, that has been coming to the North Blvd church lately, these last few months. She used to ride her bike part way and then take the bus. But she has a young (college age) man, from the church, named Sean Billington who picks her up now. When Lois comes, she brings/invites her apartment friends, (Mike and Angelica), to come to church with her.
Jack has invited Lois and her friends to study at their apartment. They agreed. The study was outside in the apartment picnic area. Lois and her friends are somewhat emotionally and mentally challenged. The apartment complex hosts people with these same issues. Jack is thinking about inviting other folks who live in this apartment complex to future studies, each week on Wednesday's. He's asking Lois and her friends, to invite folks too. This Friday we are going to the apartment complex to invite people to these Wednesday Bible studies. I'll be helping Jack with the Bible studies. It's a good idea...
Places like nursing homes, apartment complexes that house people with disabilities, those who are overcoming substance abuse, etc. are good groups to aim for. If people are infirm, lonely, hurting, emotionally struggling, poor, etc. they are more likely to seek spiritual solutions and answers to life's problems. Such people are more inclined to ask questions and talk about spiritual issues.
______
Update: 5/24/2019
Door knocking event: Today Jack and I went to Northside (apt) where Lois and her friends live. This is a GOV complex for poor people and disabled people. We meet up at the parking lot to talk and had flyers to pass out about the upcoming events, (Wed Bible study in apt picnic area at 10 AM). We were planning on going to people's doors and giving a flyer to those who were interested. We ran into Lois and her friends, (Angelic and Mike). She was excited to do this with us and went to the doors to invite people, (it's a small complex and a close nit group). The number of people at Northside were about 40 people. Lois new just about everyone. She would knock on the door and greet folks and invite folks to the study or Jack would when the door was opened. The invite would go something like this, "we are having a Bible study in the picnic area here, would you like to come, it will be at 10 AM on Wednesdays?" We talked with about 17 people. We had 6 interested people, who said "yes."
The majority of the people there were in their 40-60's, and were poor and single. They were struggling with mental or emotional issues. We met some friendly folks. One lady wanted to be prayed for. So Jack prayed with her, for the requests she made. Another lady wanted a certain chapter in Psalms read to her, because she has problems reading. Jack did that too.
_____
Update: 5/29/2019
We had 7 people come for the study, (not including Jack, myself, Lois and her friend Mike). We had 11 total. Lois, (who is a member of the church) had chairs put out around her apartment door. We still did not have enough seats. Folks had to sit on the stairs near her door. One of the ladies mentioned she'd like to go to church. The study was good, their was lots of participation and comments. One of the ladies did not have a Bible. She literally did not own one. I gave her an extra I had. The look she gave me was priceless.
_____
Update: 6/11/2019
Last Wednesday on 6/5/2019 we (Jack Adams and myself) had our second Bible study get together outside at the Northside (apt). We had Lois's apartment friends, Angelia and Mike come. A married couple from our church, Regie and Janice, heard about the study and wanted to come. So they were there, (I'll go into more about them and what they are doing to help, in this months blog). We had two from last class come, Nancy and Paulette. Joyce was new. Also we had a lady named, Sally who just moved into the apt. Jesse (a 20 something guy) who walked by, was invited to join, he did. Most of the people there, where women in their 40-60's.
Jack Adams, (who is a seasoned evangelist. Saved 100 souls one year.) has a good idea. In our studies, we get alot of people with different back grounds. It tends to be a large group. We wanted to introduce to the group, needful lessons like, grace, God's love, Jesus' sacrifice, the seriousness of sin, judgment of God, etc. But nothing that would perhaps produce a debate, (details of salvation/true church). We don't want one of the participants to get angry and hostile and turn the group against the study. Through this public group study, we having our foot in the door, so to speak. This group study is building trust and connections. But our goal with this group study is to approach folks while there and invite them to individual studies with us.
In our second study, I shared a Bible devotional, on the seriousness of sin, what Christ did in response to that sin, and that we need to do something, though I was vague. This was a interactive study, (where I asked questions and had people read scripture). We asked before the study and after the study, if people wanted to go to church. We had three people who wanted to have rides to worship with us, Janice and Regie offered to pick everyone up.
One of the ladies, Nancy, asked about her salvation. She wanted to know if she could be lost. I said, "that's a great question, that would be hard to answer that in a few minutes here, ask Jack to study with you on this. He reads his Bible and knows His Bible. He can go into detail with you from the Bible, about this." She agreed. We studied with her a few days later on Friday, 6/7/2019. We met up where we have our group studies, (outside of Sister Lois's apartment door). Lois wanted to join us. Also Mike was outside and joined us. Jack Adams went into detail about salvation and answered her questions. Nancy was not sure if God loved her, or that she could be loved, in the sin's she struggled with, (her temper/cursing). Jack shared with her what the Bible said, in matters that concerned her. He invited to to be baptized. Nancy said she needed to think about it. But that she's be there on Sunday. She was worried people would look down on her, if she came to church in her shorts and shirt. I said, we won't care. On Sunday she was there for Janice and Regie to pick up. She said she'd wear her only dress, "even though it had paint on it." The others were no shows...but it was so good to have Nancy come. After Bible class I talked with her. Nancy said she wants to come to this church more, (Sunday night she was there, too). During Sunday morning...after the preacher, Kenny Fields gave his sermon and invited people to come forward to be saved in the waters of baptism, Nancy came forwards. See this months (June) blog to learn more...
During our study with Nancy, Mike had some questions. We set up a study with him for the following Monday, 6/10/2019. We met up at his apartment and studied in his living room. We talked with Mike at length about salvation and discussed denomination-ism. Before going into the scriptures, Mike shared how he was saved at the age of 19, when "I did what it said in acts 2:38 for forgiveness." He detailed the story of being baptized in the back yard and how it made him feel spiritually refreshed. We talked to him about the importance of worshiping at a NT Bible based church. Mike said he'll quiet coming to the denomination he attends on Sunday morning, and fully come to worship with us. I offered to pick him up for services. I'm already picking up Brian...another guy I'm studying with. Who lives on the other side of town. But I'm happy to do this...
Some thoughts that hurt personal work and cause people to be lost are these...(it's important to mention these things, because you will come across these issues in outreach).
1. The false teaching/notion: If someone is baptized the right Bible way for the right Bible reasons, but by someone who maybe ignorant in other matters, (Bible authority, church worship, etc). then it does not count. Who am I to say, to someone who has been saved through Bible based baptism, that it does not count? That they are not really saved. When the scriptures are silent on such teachings? It is true, that such people need to be grounded. But they should not be barred from being included in the kingdom. We have no Bible authority to do so. Christ says woe to those who, "shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces." Matthew 23:13
This false teaching is spreading across the US and in foreign places, like the Philippines. We need to be careful of this false doctrine.
We have no Bible authority to say to someone who has been saved the way the Bible teaches, "your not saved." If someone is saved but is not aware of the other truths of God's Word, then we need to do what Priscilla and Aquila did. We need to "invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately." Acts 18:25-26
Results from this false doctrine.
- Churches don't accept saved children of God, into the group.
- Infants of Christ, are never grounded, (true church, worship, Bible authority). Such teachers tend to stop teaching those who don't want to be baptized again.
- Those who could be helped, never are. Due to a man made creed, that has no bases of authority from the scriptures.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
On Thursday's an elderly lady, in her late 70's named Darlene McCray has me teaching people, at her house. She just started this up again. It's been awhile. Keep in mind, I've been out of town in CA. I came back and had alot of transitional work to do for awhile. At last, I've finally been able to get into evangelism fully. In this mind-frame: Darlene has started her Bible classes up again, in her home. She invites people who visit the North Blvd church, to the study. Darlene also invites her neighbors and friends. Other's have invited people to this study too. In the past, (before CA) in our studies, people have been brought to the Lord, through her doing this work.
Also, I am managing my evangelism group. As you know, we do an event once each month. We are doing door knocking at 10 AM, near the North Blvd church building this coming Saturday, on May 25th. The group is slowly growing in number. A sister, named Janice, has never done door knocking before. She is excited and nervous. She'll be joining us. We will go in two's and keep our groups close together. We'll only work an hour. It's important to keep pace where everyone is at in comfort level and growth.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cold Approach...
Besides door knocking, I'm also going to begin focusing on doing "cold approach" evangelism. Click my evangelism link here, to learn the specific's about this method. I love this method. People are everywhere. This form of outreach can be used anywhere you go. You can use it when at the mall, gym, beach, etc.
I'm going to detail this further down the road on this blog and on the link I shared above. But let me give you 2 examples.
Example 1: I go to Crunch Gym. It is a small and friendly place where people workout and can meet new folks. A denominational evangelist, named William Conner, goes there to pump iron. He looks like a Greek warrior and is a super friendly guy. What William does when he goes to the gym, each day, is talk to people. He builds connections. He makes people get to know him. He makes friends. When William talks to folks, he'll invite them to his weekly Bible study group at St Joseph's Hospital's cafeteria on a given evening. When William gave the invite to me, he said something like this, "I have a Bible study men's class, I teach, would you be interested in coming?" I said yes, I gave William my number, he texted me, I got the time and place from him.
I go to the gym and have done the same thing. I have gotten yes's and no's. I don't go up to someone and give the invite right away. I start a conversation first. It's like asking a girl or boy out, when you where a teen. You did not walk up and immediately ask for their number or ask them out on a date. You talked with them first, build a re pore, then you gave the (date) invite. Same thing with cold approach. This may seem hard. But the more you practice the easier it gets. The link details this more. It shared exercises to do to be able to do this kind of interaction with others, naturally and comfortably.
Example 2: Last Tuesday on May 14 while at Staples, (I was trying to make some evangelism materials), I talked with the 20 something, staff member working at the copy center, named Ariel. It was not a long talk, nor was it a soul penetrating discussion. Ariel was frustrated that the electricity went out in the store. We talked about prices for some materials I wanted printed. I related with her frustrations. I was warm and friendly. Before leaving, I invited her to come to Darlene's Bible study group, (on Thursday's) she said "yes."
I have not done cold approach long enough to build a baseline of stat success. But as with anything, (street, campus, door knocking, cold approach) you will get a certain number of verbal or written commitments from people. From those numbers, you will get a lesser number of people who follow through. I don't want to go down the rabbit hole of stat's with street evangelism and campus work. If you've followed the blog so far. Your aware of them. See the blog post under, "Report 7." You will have read about getting written signature commitments to a study and how a percentage of those contacts actually follow through.
From those who commit, it's the smaller percentage that will actually come. The larger the invite, the larger the percentage. For friends/relatives the percentage increases. For strangers the percentage number decreases. But both groups will come, if your invites aim for high numbers. And you invite consistently.
Like anything in life...a segment will show up from those who "committed" to come.
Secular examples: If you invite 150 strangers to go paint-balling with you. 20 may say they will come. 5 actually show up. If you invite 50 friends and relatives, to your Birthday, 30 people may say they will come, yet you may have 10 who actually show up. Believe me, (with time and work) in evangelism, the numbers add up. I have been so swamped (in the past) with Bible studies I had to cancel doing evangelism events.
Report 26: June
Time stamp: 6/11/2019
It's been Busy
It's been raining Bible studies. I've been averaging about 3-4 studies a week, the last 4 weeks. In large part I'm doing 1-2 studies a week at Darlene's house.
Bible studies at Darlene's home
I'm studying with a group on Thursday evenings. On Sunday after, noon, I'm studying with a college guy named Aaron, who has been visiting our church and is a neighbor of a convert, I brought to the Lord a few years back, (Cynida Lumley). Then I go to Darlene's home on Thursday evening, I meet up with Brian and Darlene makes us a nice meal, we study then.
Mentorship and patience
Bible study is mentorship. Your taking people under your wing. Your being their friend. Your raising them up spiritually, like a parent raises children. It is a investment of time. It is an investment both emotionally and physically. Not just in helping them learn about Bible truths in salvation. But in helping them grow up in Christ. This phrase by Paul rings so true in connection to new converts. "My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you..." Galatians 4:19
It is a process to get people saved. Sometimes they need to hear it and be reminded of it in following studies. Sometimes they need to think about it and they decide later to come to Christ. It's also a process to ground the saved to new idea's (Bible teachings) and remove the old ways of denominational/worldly thinking. It takes patience.
A good example is Brian. He's coming to church. I'm picking him up for services, for our Bible studies. I'm teaching him, he's getting his mindset changed. But a Pentecostal roommate named Jimmy asked Brian to worship Sunday mornings with him. Due to this, he's unlearning fundamental truths on what I have been teaching him. I'm teaching Brian and they are teaching him, through saying completely different things, then what I have shown him in the Bible. It's frustrating.
He was baptized correctly. But Brian needs fundamentals badly, (true church/Bible worship). I have been showing him such details. But I need to go further in-depth. Some people require alot of work. Some you win, some you lose. But in the end, the matter is between God and their free will. Brian is coming to the Thursday evening Bible study, to church on Sunday evening and Wednesday. I've also invite him to a Revelation class, I'm apart of. Please keep in mind this is not always the case. Most of the people I have studied with consistently, are not like the story of Brian. Some are. Bu not all.
Different Bible studies I'm doing
Another study, (where I am second seat) in the study of Revelation, is at my parents home. Then Jack and I are doing studies on Wednesday's at 10 AM Northside apartments. Seems like studies are taking place alot. My parents have been studying with a baptist named, Cliff, who has been visiting the church, we go to. While visiting with Cliff, at church, mom invited him to lunch at her house and a study with her and dad.
Door knocking thoughts...
I was reading last night on a stat page, a Mormon stat about door knocking. That if 100 people were reached in canvasing an area, then one of the contacts, would lead to a study. These are high stats. Higher then other religious groups. Yet these Mormons still... get out and do door knocking work.
As with anything (method wise) in evangelism, door knocking is about getting a commitment.
Example: Now...if I give people tracts. I don't tend to get a Bible study at the flea market, campus, street, door. But if I get someone to commit to a action, either signing up for a study or having a study, then results follow. When I was first starting evangelism, I'd work at the flea market once a month for 5 hours. During this time I'd hand out flyers for a year. Guess how many studies I got? One. In one day of asking people to sign up for a Bible study, working for 5 hours, at the flea market, guess how many Bible studies signatures I got? 3.
Having people commit/make an emotional investment, is crucial. When they agree to study with you and give you there signature, that's a commitment. When they agree to have a study, then and there, with you, that is a commitment. Know in door knocking, that inviting people to church does work. If you connect, talk with them. If it's a person interaction. It does work. I know people who have come due to such invites. But in any venue, this should be secondary in focus to getting a commitment.
It's been Busy
It's been raining Bible studies. I've been averaging about 3-4 studies a week, the last 4 weeks. In large part I'm doing 1-2 studies a week at Darlene's house.
Bible studies at Darlene's home
I'm studying with a group on Thursday evenings. On Sunday after, noon, I'm studying with a college guy named Aaron, who has been visiting our church and is a neighbor of a convert, I brought to the Lord a few years back, (Cynida Lumley). Then I go to Darlene's home on Thursday evening, I meet up with Brian and Darlene makes us a nice meal, we study then.
Mentorship and patience
Bible study is mentorship. Your taking people under your wing. Your being their friend. Your raising them up spiritually, like a parent raises children. It is a investment of time. It is an investment both emotionally and physically. Not just in helping them learn about Bible truths in salvation. But in helping them grow up in Christ. This phrase by Paul rings so true in connection to new converts. "My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you..." Galatians 4:19
It is a process to get people saved. Sometimes they need to hear it and be reminded of it in following studies. Sometimes they need to think about it and they decide later to come to Christ. It's also a process to ground the saved to new idea's (Bible teachings) and remove the old ways of denominational/worldly thinking. It takes patience.
A good example is Brian. He's coming to church. I'm picking him up for services, for our Bible studies. I'm teaching him, he's getting his mindset changed. But a Pentecostal roommate named Jimmy asked Brian to worship Sunday mornings with him. Due to this, he's unlearning fundamental truths on what I have been teaching him. I'm teaching Brian and they are teaching him, through saying completely different things, then what I have shown him in the Bible. It's frustrating.
He was baptized correctly. But Brian needs fundamentals badly, (true church/Bible worship). I have been showing him such details. But I need to go further in-depth. Some people require alot of work. Some you win, some you lose. But in the end, the matter is between God and their free will. Brian is coming to the Thursday evening Bible study, to church on Sunday evening and Wednesday. I've also invite him to a Revelation class, I'm apart of. Please keep in mind this is not always the case. Most of the people I have studied with consistently, are not like the story of Brian. Some are. Bu not all.
Different Bible studies I'm doing
Another study, (where I am second seat) in the study of Revelation, is at my parents home. Then Jack and I are doing studies on Wednesday's at 10 AM Northside apartments. Seems like studies are taking place alot. My parents have been studying with a baptist named, Cliff, who has been visiting the church, we go to. While visiting with Cliff, at church, mom invited him to lunch at her house and a study with her and dad.
Door knocking thoughts...
I was reading last night on a stat page, a Mormon stat about door knocking. That if 100 people were reached in canvasing an area, then one of the contacts, would lead to a study. These are high stats. Higher then other religious groups. Yet these Mormons still... get out and do door knocking work.
As with anything (method wise) in evangelism, door knocking is about getting a commitment.
Example: Now...if I give people tracts. I don't tend to get a Bible study at the flea market, campus, street, door. But if I get someone to commit to a action, either signing up for a study or having a study, then results follow. When I was first starting evangelism, I'd work at the flea market once a month for 5 hours. During this time I'd hand out flyers for a year. Guess how many studies I got? One. In one day of asking people to sign up for a Bible study, working for 5 hours, at the flea market, guess how many Bible studies signatures I got? 3.
Having people commit/make an emotional investment, is crucial. When they agree to study with you and give you there signature, that's a commitment. When they agree to have a study, then and there, with you, that is a commitment. Know in door knocking, that inviting people to church does work. If you connect, talk with them. If it's a person interaction. It does work. I know people who have come due to such invites. But in any venue, this should be secondary in focus to getting a commitment.
Wonderful News!! Nancy was buried With Christ.
|
|
Nancy McGahee wanted to be saved.
She has been studying with Jack Adams (older man in blue suit) and myself, (40 something in gold shirt). Sister Lois Mathews is her apartment neighbor, (blue shirt, standing next to me). Lois helped get the Bible studies going. The lady to her right, is Janice Cheaves. She helps take people to church, who live at the apartment complex. Janice is taking Nancy under her wing. Janice and husband Regie in second picture, with small son, are active in coming to the Bible studies, we have with Nancy and the community, where Lois/Nancy lives. It helps when you got people supporting such work. Nancy is such a sweet woman. She's had a hard life. But wanted to be free from the fears of being in sin. We will keep studying with her, (to ground her). Nancy is excited to be apart of the North Blvd church of Christ. Read last months blog to learn more.
Report 28: July
Praise God, Hannah was baptized!
Timestamp 7/1/2019
I'm still doing 3-4 Bible studies a week. Got different people helping me out and others I'm mentoring. Hannah lives at the Northside apt. She goes to our outside Bible studies (on Wednesday afternoon) that we do. Through this venue, she was also invited to Darlene's Thursday evening Bible studies. I tend to pick up, (in my car) 4 people from this area, (Northside apt) to take to church. Hannah is one of the people who likes to come. Hannah Berman was baptized into Christ last Sunday evening. And was added to the Lord's body. ☝️ The reason she gave, "I'm afraid of going to hell." "I want my sins forgiven." Hannah is innocent and childlike, yet she knows/understands her Bible stories and has an interest in growing in the Bible. She is interested in learning about the miracles of the Holy Spirit (do we still have them today?) and the Lord's Supper. My mom, (Jeanne Sullivan) and a fellow worker in outreach, (Janice Cheaves), will be studying with Hannah further to ground her.
I'm still doing 3-4 Bible studies a week. Got different people helping me out and others I'm mentoring. Hannah lives at the Northside apt. She goes to our outside Bible studies (on Wednesday afternoon) that we do. Through this venue, she was also invited to Darlene's Thursday evening Bible studies. I tend to pick up, (in my car) 4 people from this area, (Northside apt) to take to church. Hannah is one of the people who likes to come. Hannah Berman was baptized into Christ last Sunday evening. And was added to the Lord's body. ☝️ The reason she gave, "I'm afraid of going to hell." "I want my sins forgiven." Hannah is innocent and childlike, yet she knows/understands her Bible stories and has an interest in growing in the Bible. She is interested in learning about the miracles of the Holy Spirit (do we still have them today?) and the Lord's Supper. My mom, (Jeanne Sullivan) and a fellow worker in outreach, (Janice Cheaves), will be studying with Hannah further to ground her.
Janice Cheaves in picture, with Hannah Berman.
Let us see them as Jesus would...
Many of the people I take to church are dirty and poor. They have mental limitations or past histories. They don't have nice, fancy clothes. But "the least of these" in the churches, should still be shown the love of God. Their should be no favoritism or indifference to such souls...in the churches of Christ. Churches/Christians/preachers/elders need to encourage God's people to accept, love and encourage all of those in Christ. And seek all without the body. Regardless of race, age, gender, economy/social status, education, past history, social skills, etc. Love for the lost and new converts, should be based more then on their worldly appeal. The rich, upper class, families with 2.3 kids and nice clothes should be greeted the same as those shy souls in ragged clothes, who are dirty and poor. They too, are in the image of God. Christ died for them as well as the rich and affluent. Churches should not flock around those they think most desirable by the standards of this life and ignore the poor, as they are sitting in the pews...alone. Indifference to such people, to those who don't "measure up," is wrong. If God loved these people enough to send His Son to die for them...should we not love them as well? Favoritism has no place in the churches of Christ. James 2:1-6
I've seen horror stories (in the churches) of people being kicked out of Bible studies or being refused baptism/barred from church, because they had did not fit a prescribed mold. How do you think God views such behavior from His people?
Showing Christian love is a must. We need to be there for folks spiritually. However, this does not mean a saint is a social worker. Your not here to cure people of addictions, give them a place to live, etc. You can teach them, motivate them, from the Bible how to live, but a Christian can spent their whole life holding someone's hand and doing ever little thing for them. Not saying don't help, if you can. But don't make that your full time job. With poor people it can become that if not careful. Show them the Bible teachings of love, sit with them at church, call them when they miss a service to check on them, give them a ride to church if they need it, be warm and welcoming, in how you treat the least of these brethren. Be hospitable. Be willing to help short term if they NEED something. But encourage them to step up and fix the issue. It's not your job to be there care taker. Or get them out of the same jams they refuse to fix themselves.
I've seen horror stories (in the churches) of people being kicked out of Bible studies or being refused baptism/barred from church, because they had did not fit a prescribed mold. How do you think God views such behavior from His people?
Showing Christian love is a must. We need to be there for folks spiritually. However, this does not mean a saint is a social worker. Your not here to cure people of addictions, give them a place to live, etc. You can teach them, motivate them, from the Bible how to live, but a Christian can spent their whole life holding someone's hand and doing ever little thing for them. Not saying don't help, if you can. But don't make that your full time job. With poor people it can become that if not careful. Show them the Bible teachings of love, sit with them at church, call them when they miss a service to check on them, give them a ride to church if they need it, be warm and welcoming, in how you treat the least of these brethren. Be hospitable. Be willing to help short term if they NEED something. But encourage them to step up and fix the issue. It's not your job to be there care taker. Or get them out of the same jams they refuse to fix themselves.
Advice: Do not over extent yourself.
To much of the time for saints, under extending is the problem. But in matters of the zealous work you do in evangelism, you may find the other side of the coin as a problem. I certainly have. A new convert may be eager for more Bible studies a week. He or she may want to go to gospel meetings, be picked up for other evangelism pursuits your doing etc. Know your limitations. Nothing wrong with including them through using your time, resources, etc. But if they are limiting what you can do in furthering your outreach goals, or if they are draining your health or budget through being overworked, due to their spiritual interest. Then tone it down. Get other Christians involved. Lighten the load. Help them as you can but don't over state or promise them things you can't deliver on down the road. Share the load. Do what you can, that is enough. Please note, I am not saying, don't help them. I am saying, don't kill yourself or undermine your life or spiritual work goals, by overdoing it.
In the past I have spent 80 percent of the week driving new converts around, to the grocery store, the doctors, etc. Before they met me they took the bus. When I explained I could not due to health reasons, (for this was affecting my health) they....guess what....they took the bus. Sometimes with this work their are learning curves. Nothing wrong with helping someone from time to time. But it should not be a ongoing thing. Especially, in matters where they can do for themselves. Try to encourage new converts to take personal initiative in matters of their life.
In the past I have spent 80 percent of the week driving new converts around, to the grocery store, the doctors, etc. Before they met me they took the bus. When I explained I could not due to health reasons, (for this was affecting my health) they....guess what....they took the bus. Sometimes with this work their are learning curves. Nothing wrong with helping someone from time to time. But it should not be a ongoing thing. Especially, in matters where they can do for themselves. Try to encourage new converts to take personal initiative in matters of their life.
Bible study news...
Timestamp 7/30/2019
The apartment group at Northside apartments has moved from outside (weekly) studies at the complex, to (also) doing home studies. One of the ladies, Darlene McCray has been inviting people over. She decided to have these people over for a Bible study. It meant the world (to these folks) to be included in this study. And to be welcomed into Darlene's home. Many of these people, have hard lives and have had little love. They are always asking about studies at church and are eager for the next apt Bible study, each week.
Darlene is a model for "friendship evangelism." She has invited friends and family, (through the years) to her house for studies. I have had the pleasure, to teach the classes. Souls, (from her friends/family) have been converted, through what she is doing.
Timestamp 7/30/2019
The apartment group at Northside apartments has moved from outside (weekly) studies at the complex, to (also) doing home studies. One of the ladies, Darlene McCray has been inviting people over. She decided to have these people over for a Bible study. It meant the world (to these folks) to be included in this study. And to be welcomed into Darlene's home. Many of these people, have hard lives and have had little love. They are always asking about studies at church and are eager for the next apt Bible study, each week.
Darlene is a model for "friendship evangelism." She has invited friends and family, (through the years) to her house for studies. I have had the pleasure, to teach the classes. Souls, (from her friends/family) have been converted, through what she is doing.
|
|
Reasons for having a new convert class at the church during Sunday Bible school hrs. or on Wednesday evening.
We got an amazing new convert/Christian fundamentals class. We have teachers, who give one on one interactions with our students. They aim to teach at different levels (of understanding) for where each student is at. The teachers go slow in the class progress, so as to carefully help them learn needed key concepts. They also focus on giving one on one attention, to the students, in helping them look up scripture, learn to work through a worldly problem, understanding certain Bible terms, they don't know, etc.) The class is slow also due to the interested questions we get. We take the time to address each one. A large auditorium could not deal with the students, one on one. Such a format that this small group gives would slow down a larger adult auditorium class study/lectureship. The teachers are also building important bonds with the students. As well as personally growing in the work of teaching. This could not be done, by sitting in the auditorium. We have 3-4 teachers who rotate in teaching in the class. Some of the sisters/evangelists help the ladies turn to Bible passages if they need help or quietly help a female new convert with a question, if asked. They serve as a support system for large new convert classes. These classes are great for when the new convert invites their friends to join in the Bible class with them. We trained a young man, a college age student to teach the new converts, when first starting this class.
Bible Group
Jeanne Sullivan, (like Darlene) has poor health. Yet, she is busy working with me at the flea market, doing door knocking, meeting up at the apartment complex, to study, (when the group get's together). She has also have been doing one on one studies, with folks from this apt. Besides this, Jeanne has been showing these folks, Christian love and hospitality. Below is a picture of the "apartment group," at Jeanne's house. She had them over for a Bible study and home cooked food. Bob Mess, (on far left, bottom corner), has been helping me with studies at Darlene's and came to teach that evening's Bible class. Janice Cheaves, is one of the active teachers of the evangelism group. She's in the middle, in the light green shirt. We got some great EV workers. Jack Adams, is actively doing outreach with me, as well. He and I do 1 on 1 studies. Janice's husband, Regie also is busy in this work. Besides these people, I have a group helping me with door knocking, (besides the above), Kim Conrad, Sara Delgado, (my dad) Bill Sullivan. Got some college students who are showing interest, as well, (Sean Billington, Andrew Love, Roy Mason). I mention the folks that are helping, to give honor where it is due. Evangelism is easier when it's a team/group effort, and not a solo endeavor. Though solo work is due-able. I've done solo work in the past. I have had results, working alone. But having folks involved, makes the work better in support and reach.
Also, keep in mind, I moved from CA, to FL to be near my parents, who are not in good health. Yet despite, the issues they are facing, my parents are out there...busy in the work of the Lord.
Our church is getting alot of visitors from the Northside apt. We have two cars come by, each service to pick people up. Many of the folks, are to poor to afford a vehicle. To help with the Bible study work load and to ground them, quickly, we set up two classes, (for Sunday and Wednesday). We set up a new convert class, which Janice Cheaves and Jeanne Sullivan are teaching, (for the newly converted Sisters, Hannah and Nancy). The Bible lessons are from Johnie Edwards book, "Home Bible study." Each lady is focusing on teaching one of the new converts. Giving that student one on one time.
The second class, I teach, with Jack Adams, Regie Cheaves. We are using the same curriculum. We are teaching a broader group dynamic, (non Christians and ungrounded Christians/people baptized for the right reasons, in the past, yet are still doctrinally ignorant). The three of us rotate each class in teaching. This is a great system, for if one is sick or out of town, the other two can still keep the class going. For the ladies class, if the class can't be taught, for some reason, (on a Wed or Sun), we move the new converts into the broader class, (as back up support).
Note: Though not necessary, if a church supports the work, (in encouragement, interest and backing) the work will go better. Even if it is just a group of Christians helping in outreach, such help will make things go smoother in evangelism activities. Yet if the reverse is true...if the preacher or an elder or a group at church chooses to undermines such evangelism pursuits, due to rivalry, apathy, power, politics, etc....if it can't be worked out, leave. Sadly to many churches are using their energies to undermine and fight amongst each other, instead of building up the kingdom. Such people can make the work of outreach 10 times harder and undermine the evangelism workers and the new converts. Know when to stay, and know when to go, (if you must). Some churches can't be saved from dying out, some can. Find a supportive Bible based church or start one, (if you must), but don't let anyone limit or stop you from your God given work. Sometimes things can be worked out. But know when the battle is lost. If enough churches do evangelism and teach/support/promote the NT teachings of love, Christian hospitality, etc. Then the kingdom culture in the churches will begin to change.
Back to earlier topic...It is important to get new converts and ignorant Christians grounded, as quickly as possible. With this format, we do 2 lessons at church with them a week. In the past, I had new converts come and sit in the auditorium class, listening to studies, that are not geared around grounding principles. What a wasted opportunity.
Please keep in mind, during this month, (July) we have set up Bible studies, (where people were no shows or were not receptive).
Some will accept, some will not be interested or accept the truth. But success comes from actively and consistently getting out there and seeking venues to reach others.
New converts and non Christian (contacts) should be invested in. They should be visited when not at church, given a B day card when it's that time of the year. Such people should be sat with and comforted when their father dies. Evangelism in part is about friendship. The ties of truth should bind them, but also in nourishment and support, they need the ties of love.
Also, keep in mind, I moved from CA, to FL to be near my parents, who are not in good health. Yet despite, the issues they are facing, my parents are out there...busy in the work of the Lord.
Our church is getting alot of visitors from the Northside apt. We have two cars come by, each service to pick people up. Many of the folks, are to poor to afford a vehicle. To help with the Bible study work load and to ground them, quickly, we set up two classes, (for Sunday and Wednesday). We set up a new convert class, which Janice Cheaves and Jeanne Sullivan are teaching, (for the newly converted Sisters, Hannah and Nancy). The Bible lessons are from Johnie Edwards book, "Home Bible study." Each lady is focusing on teaching one of the new converts. Giving that student one on one time.
The second class, I teach, with Jack Adams, Regie Cheaves. We are using the same curriculum. We are teaching a broader group dynamic, (non Christians and ungrounded Christians/people baptized for the right reasons, in the past, yet are still doctrinally ignorant). The three of us rotate each class in teaching. This is a great system, for if one is sick or out of town, the other two can still keep the class going. For the ladies class, if the class can't be taught, for some reason, (on a Wed or Sun), we move the new converts into the broader class, (as back up support).
Note: Though not necessary, if a church supports the work, (in encouragement, interest and backing) the work will go better. Even if it is just a group of Christians helping in outreach, such help will make things go smoother in evangelism activities. Yet if the reverse is true...if the preacher or an elder or a group at church chooses to undermines such evangelism pursuits, due to rivalry, apathy, power, politics, etc....if it can't be worked out, leave. Sadly to many churches are using their energies to undermine and fight amongst each other, instead of building up the kingdom. Such people can make the work of outreach 10 times harder and undermine the evangelism workers and the new converts. Know when to stay, and know when to go, (if you must). Some churches can't be saved from dying out, some can. Find a supportive Bible based church or start one, (if you must), but don't let anyone limit or stop you from your God given work. Sometimes things can be worked out. But know when the battle is lost. If enough churches do evangelism and teach/support/promote the NT teachings of love, Christian hospitality, etc. Then the kingdom culture in the churches will begin to change.
Back to earlier topic...It is important to get new converts and ignorant Christians grounded, as quickly as possible. With this format, we do 2 lessons at church with them a week. In the past, I had new converts come and sit in the auditorium class, listening to studies, that are not geared around grounding principles. What a wasted opportunity.
Please keep in mind, during this month, (July) we have set up Bible studies, (where people were no shows or were not receptive).
Some will accept, some will not be interested or accept the truth. But success comes from actively and consistently getting out there and seeking venues to reach others.
New converts and non Christian (contacts) should be invested in. They should be visited when not at church, given a B day card when it's that time of the year. Such people should be sat with and comforted when their father dies. Evangelism in part is about friendship. The ties of truth should bind them, but also in nourishment and support, they need the ties of love.
Fantastic news! Paulette had her sins washed away.
Paulette Dixon has been coming to the apartment Bible studies. She has also been coming to church and to (grounding) church studies. Jeanne Sullivan, (while at the Northside apt complex) talked with Paulette and set up a study, when Paulette mentioned her concerns about not being saved. Paulette was baptized last Wednesday (7/24/2019) evening after worship. She came forward when the invitation song was sung. The smile on her face afterwords, was so beautiful.
|
|
James Ostino was brought to the Lord!
Timestamp 8/24/2019
We have a new brother in Christ! We rejoice with the angels and Heavenly Host. Jack Adams, Reggie and Janice Cheaves and myself have been interacting with James, at Northside apt. After setting up a one on one study with him, Jack and I baptized James, when he wanted to have his sins washed away. Nancy (newly baptized) is a friend of James at the Live Oaks apt. She wanted to be there too. The folks in the far right picture are members of the North Blvd church (where I attend) who were contacted to welcome James into God's kingdom. Jack Adams is also in the picture.
We have a new brother in Christ! We rejoice with the angels and Heavenly Host. Jack Adams, Reggie and Janice Cheaves and myself have been interacting with James, at Northside apt. After setting up a one on one study with him, Jack and I baptized James, when he wanted to have his sins washed away. Nancy (newly baptized) is a friend of James at the Live Oaks apt. She wanted to be there too. The folks in the far right picture are members of the North Blvd church (where I attend) who were contacted to welcome James into God's kingdom. Jack Adams is also in the picture.
Tracie Pacheco was baptized into Christ
Tracie came to the Lord through the door knocking evangelism efforts at Northside apt. The evangelism group had been teaching her. I had the pleasure of sharing with Tracie Bible truths on the church and moral living. Jeanne Sullivan sat down with her and taught Tracie the plan of salvation. Tracie wanted to be saved, to confess Jesus, repent of her sins and be baptized. My mother (Jeanne Sullivan) has been picking her up and taking her to church. And has been having more ongoing studies. 10/9/2019 of baptism
Cindy Trosclair wanted to be saved
Through the door knocking efforts one of her friends, one of our new Sisters, (Tracie Pacheco) invited Cindy to church. In our studies with Cindy, she wanted to obey the Gospel and be saved. We baptized her and Christ forgave Cindy on her sins and past mistakes. Cindy is eager to study more and is actively coming to church to worship. Some of the evangelism workers, (Jeanne Sullivan, Regie and Janice Cheaves and myself) are in the pictures, we took after Cindy was baptized. Also, Cindy's friend, Tracie Pacheco is in our picture. She too is eager to be at church, study and follow God. They are such a blessing to know.
Timestamp 11/10/2019
Timestamp 11/10/2019
Michelle Clayton was joined with Christ Jesus
Last Wednesday Michelle was baptized. She is a friend of the recent converts, Cindy and Tracie. Cindy is in the picture with her on the right. Michelle is excited about doing Bible studies and in coming to church. These ladies had a good influence on her. I and those working together with me, (Jack Adams, Regie and Janice Cheaves and Jeanne Sullivan) also helped in sharing with her the plan of salvation/Bible truths.
Timestamp 12/13/2019
Timestamp 12/13/2019
Preparing my car for evangelism event work
|
|
|
Bible study at apt during Christmas timeJack Adams, (one of the Bible study teachers/evangelists) getting a Xmas present from Mike Randell, after one of our apt Bible studies with him and the others from the apt group. (updated)
|
Note: you may have noticed I updated and changed the content on door knocking in the above blog. I will explain why below.
Report 29: August
Door knocking stat's
Timestamp 8/14/2019
I've been running into alot of great results with door knocking through the years. I've got Bible study signatures, have had visits to church and have had Bible studies. For me, I've found that door knocking is best perceived as a sprint, not a marathon. Mormons do hours a day in door knocking. This maybe the venue you wish to pursue. But I have chosen to break up the events, into 1 hour activities, sectioned out through out the week/month. From my experience, door knocking drains the emotional battery. It's better, (at least for me) to be running on a full pack. 1 hour doing door knocking events, (maybe 2), is as good as my battery juice permits, (for now). Good energy, positivity, social power and presentation matter. It's good to be running on good vibes. Not empty (emotional) battery juice.
I'm excited about door knocking. It takes a great deal of work and time. But it works. It seems like many church members are interested in doing outreach in this venue. 200 churches will be doing outreach on the same day. It's a pretty interesting read. See link .https://nextdoor.housetohouse.com
Large groups of Christians doing door knocking is not a new concept. We Care has converted in a campaign 100's in door knocking, by getting a large group together to do His work. http://www.wecareministries.com/index.html
I was watching a video awhile back about a group that is doing door knocking. For every 100-150 people, (interacted with) they got a Bible study. They have had many baptisms due to this work. See stat's in video. https://www.facebook.com/1754325674867628/videos/1772753949691467/
Teams matter in door knocking. This link details a group of (denominational) college students who did door knocking for 12 Friday's in a group and brought 43 "to the Lord." https://swbts.edu/news/everyday-evangelism/first-person-door-door-evangelism-actually-works/
Tips I've learned:
When door knocking, Remember:
I've been running into alot of great results with door knocking through the years. I've got Bible study signatures, have had visits to church and have had Bible studies. For me, I've found that door knocking is best perceived as a sprint, not a marathon. Mormons do hours a day in door knocking. This maybe the venue you wish to pursue. But I have chosen to break up the events, into 1 hour activities, sectioned out through out the week/month. From my experience, door knocking drains the emotional battery. It's better, (at least for me) to be running on a full pack. 1 hour doing door knocking events, (maybe 2), is as good as my battery juice permits, (for now). Good energy, positivity, social power and presentation matter. It's good to be running on good vibes. Not empty (emotional) battery juice.
I'm excited about door knocking. It takes a great deal of work and time. But it works. It seems like many church members are interested in doing outreach in this venue. 200 churches will be doing outreach on the same day. It's a pretty interesting read. See link .https://nextdoor.housetohouse.com
Large groups of Christians doing door knocking is not a new concept. We Care has converted in a campaign 100's in door knocking, by getting a large group together to do His work. http://www.wecareministries.com/index.html
I was watching a video awhile back about a group that is doing door knocking. For every 100-150 people, (interacted with) they got a Bible study. They have had many baptisms due to this work. See stat's in video. https://www.facebook.com/1754325674867628/videos/1772753949691467/
Teams matter in door knocking. This link details a group of (denominational) college students who did door knocking for 12 Friday's in a group and brought 43 "to the Lord." https://swbts.edu/news/everyday-evangelism/first-person-door-door-evangelism-actually-works/
Tips I've learned:
- You can canvas the same area after 6 months, their tends to be different people answering the door, each visit to a community. The more time goes by the more things change, new people moved into a house, a college daughter get's the door instead of older brother, etc. Also, people do not always come to the door, when someone does, it tends to be a different house.
- The Myth that says you gotta do door knocking on the weekend, is false. I've ran into the same numbers during the work week. Many moms, grand parents, couples, college folks, stay at home dads, adults who are unemployed or not working, etc. are at home.
- On average (per hour) when I went door knocking I met at least 6 people. This is the minimum average. It tends to be more. Sometimes a lot more. One hour I reached 20 folks, while door knocking by myself.
- In doing 278 houses, (with my evangelism group). We got 2 different visitors to church, who also had a Bible study with us.
- Unlike street or campus evangelism where your in a high foot traffic location to invite people to sign up for studies. This format requires more hours and workers to get the same results, due to the work of going door to door.
- Best places are poorer communities, (though all places work). People tend to sit outside or walk around, where you can strike up conversations. People that are poor, tend to have more struggles. Such folks in this context may be receptive.
- Also, area's where the mentally ill live, google "mentally ill apartments," or other such search words, can help you find hurting people. GOV Apartments or home where the physically disabled live, the addicts, the mentally or emotionally struggling live, is a good place to go. These people sit around all day, they don't work, they have very little to do, they are lonely and broken. A good rule of thumb is this: go where the broken people are. Nursing Homes, is another good example of reaching (hurting) such people. Door knocking works at such places too.
- Immigrant locations, (African, Latino, South American, etc.) especially where people are brand new to the states, is also a positive place to work as well.
- Try to have conversations with people. Look for "qualifiers," in your discussions . If someone says they don't want a Bible study, but mention how bad their kids are struggling spiritually, offer Sunday school and detail how it can help. If someone is talking about not having a church, or if they mention they are lonely or bored, etc, mention your church and give reasons on the things they mention, to come visit. If the person is suffering from depression, etc. Offer Bible counseling, (you or your elder or preacher, can do). It may take time to get good at this, but with practice, you will.
- In an hour 50, 100 or 200 people may pass by with street/campus evangelism. One person can invite people in his/her picked out spot, to sign folks up for studies. With door knocking 1 person would have a hard time reaching the same amount of people, going door to door for the same amount of time, (1 hour). Two things need to be put together to reach a high number of people in door knocking.
- Get a team together. If you get 10 people, who work in sub groups of 2, (or 5 people in single sub groups of 1), if they reach on average 6 people an hour, they will reach (at the very least) 30 people per event. Do that weekly for a month and that's 120 people reached. On average it's 1-200 people one needs to reach to get a result. Again remember the law of averages. We must reach many people, to increase the likelihood of results. Again it could be person number 10, who responds. But the ceiling for getting the result maybe higher.
- To successfully reach people, remember it's about consistency. Doing door knocking once a year or every blue moon, is not consistent. Results will come in equal amount to the numbers reached and the work put into the (number) of evangelism events you do.
- Door knocking is best done in numbers, the larger the number the sooner the results. It needs to be personal. Introduce yourself, strike up a conversation, if you can, be social and friendly. Door knocking is a process and takes time. But if you do the work and put in the time and are consistent, you will get the results.
- Try to not make it about results only. This can discourage you and your work team. Make it about following God's command to fulfill the great commission, (that of sharing Jesus). Talk to them about the good their doing. The great conversations they had with people at the door, the Bible signatures they got, the people who wanted to be "prayed over," in the concerns they are facing, etc. Let them know the good things they are doing. Remind them of the great spiritual growth you are seeing of them, (of such things you witness).
- Reward your evangelism group, get together with them afterwards for a bit of food and conversation, at a nearby restaurant, etc. Let them know you appreciate them. Support them in verbal encouragement and being their friend.
When door knocking, Remember:
- Mormons find doing a poll works, https://latterdaysaintmag.com/article-1-13470/, yet the point of the poll is interaction. At the bottom of this site's link, you will see comments. Some about how Mormon folk use dialogue and questions to stir people to Biblical conversation and interest, when conversing outside their door. What this article points out, is this: giving no personal introduction or social dialogue. Just a "here I am attitude" listen to me, is not effective.
- When door knocking: Talk to them to get interaction, ask them about things, secular and spiritual, (to build repore and keep the conversation going). You can talk to them about their dog, their lawn, etc. Ask them questions about themselves. Let their answers be stepping stones to ask other questions.
- Remember in the discussions you have with folks, to insert spiritual comments/reminders, (of church/Bible study, etc). This will get easier over time, when doing this work. Focus on creating a dialogue. Ask people questions, (both secular and spiritual) to keep things going. The more you do door knocking the better you will get at this.
- When door knocking: Ask them spiritual questions, talk with them, communicate. Interact with them, ask them about how they were saved. Talk to them about scripture, their spiritual history, their spiritual interests, one does not have to be invited in a home, to get a Bible discussion going. Get them thinking. The discussions may react them then or down the road, to the seeds you plant in their minds.
- When giving the invite, asking if they are saved: if someone replies "they are saved," when you ask them about this, ask if you could come inside and hear about their "salvation experience." Then, (if they let you in) ask if you can share yours, once they are done, sharing their "salvation story." They will be more inclined to do so, if you took the time to hears their, "salvation story."
- If someone at the door says they are a pastor, secretary at the church, a deacon of the baptist assembly, etc. Jump on that. Say, something like, "you must love talking about spiritual things! Since you are such and such, (one of the above)." Then ask about having a Bible study.
- Be in the right mindset, if you think negative thoughts, if you don't want to be invited inside, if your hating the work, etc. Guess what, you'll get the results of what your doing. Think positive, be positive, friendly, social. This makes a difference.
- Remember you don't have to be perfect, or a social expert. You don't even need to do the above techniques, (Though they will help). Simply inviting people to church, after a personal interaction, (introducing yourself, giving your name, shaking their hand and asking their name), then giving them a warm invite, is what matters. Dress in nice casual clothes. Not church clothes. But clothes you would go on a date on. Be clean cut. Practice good hygiene. Don’t wear dark shades. Also, don’t travel to a door or in groups in large numbers. Stay in groups of two. You can interact briefly on the street to ask questions. But if folks see a dozen folks they don’t know walking around together, it is a turn off.
- Do your best then give it to God. Always be willing to learn and grow. Don't go through the motions. But at the end of the day, it's in His hands. Do your best, then give it to Him in prayer. Try to enjoy the process and have fun. Don't be so focused on the results that you stress out. If you are willing to learn, adapt, work and put in the time. If you work long enough, reach enough people, (and are personal in greeting people/introducing self). Results will come.
- Sales people do door knocking for 3 hours. Some sales people do 3 hours per day. I'm not saying do that right of the bat. But it is a good goal to slowly work up too.
- Door knocking tools, a Bible, tracts/cards, Bible lesson materials, pens/paper, door knocking map of the area and mini clipboards, (for Bible study signatures). I get mine on amazon. The mini clipboard can easily be put inside the Bible.
Final thoughts: Door knocking -Targeting
Best places to work are in the area's where people are poor or hurting. Target these areas. Search (on Google, etc) for the key words below to find such area's in your local vicinity. Poor people tend to be less guarded, defensive, and more open and willing to hear the message. They don't have for their abodes, "this is my castle," mentality. They are less territorial in matters of people visiting. They also tend to be more warm and friendly. Door knocking, street evangelism, campus evangelism, cold approach, etc, has a more receptive response in poorer environmental locations. I am not saying don't do evangelism in the middle-class area's or upper-class areas. I just want you to be mindful of these truths. Know you can get results anywhere and with any financial class. But this demographic is more receptive.
BEST AREA'S -
- Housing area's - the Projects
- Government housing
- Homeless Shelters
- Recovering Drug addict apt or housing
- Nursing Homes (especially in poor areas)
- ALF (Assisted Living Facility) - government run or charity run. Best in poor areas.
- Mental illness apartments or housing - government run or charity run.
- Disabled or veteran apt or housing
- Mobile housing/trailer parks. Best in poor areas, which is not in vacation trailer park communities.
- Getto's
- Run down hotels (where the poor live)
- Battered women shelters
- Run away teen shelters
- Welfare housing
- Social Security/SSI disability housing/apartments
- Homeless teen shelters
- Basically any place you can think of, where people are hurting or financially poor.
Note: with anything, it is always good to test out different locations to find out the best areas for best interactions/results.
A good idea in door knocking:
Remember what I did with Jack, (we went door knocking, as I mentioned in this blog at Northside).
This apartment complex houses poor people and disabled people. Remember what we did, Jack and I invited people to a Bible study at the apartment complex on Wednesdays at 10. These people are hurting, poor, many disabled, they are bored, jobless, having nothing to do. Many of them don't have TV's or Cell phones. We knocked on doors, learned where people lived, got names, addresses, shared a flyer (with folks) with the Bible study day/time, we came each week, met the (bored) people milling around outside, connected, interacted. We did Bible studies in this small apt complex and drew interest. We kept having studies, got contacts, set up Bible studies. During the close of a study we'd ask people if they had Bible questions, if they did, we'd say "let's get together with you, to answer that." We'd set up a private study and answer that question and share other important truths, (like salvation). When we got a chance to meet people and interact, we'd also just invite people to a personal study. They may say no or not show up. But as time passes, we'd ask again. And we'd have yeses.
Having a Bible study in a public place, at a apartment complex, is a great way to get your foot in the door and get anchored to that location...so as to be a regular, visible presence. People interacting with you over time and being exposed to what your doing regularly may lend to the same results we had in studies and conversions.
Jack and I went door knocking at the apartment complex next door, (Live Oaks) where poor people live. We got 2 people agreeing to study and one interest in a ride to church. We also went to Shady Oaks, a ALF home, people were sitting outside. We struck up conversations, asked how they were and talked with them, then asked if they would like to get together to talk about the Bible some. Folks, regardless of wanting a study, (at that time) were willing to give us their room number. From there, we can talk with them some more and see where it goes...
Please note: if someone is mentally ill or disabled to the point of limited/distorted reasoning, know it, be kind, be social, but use discretion.
Things to note: on the poor.
Pro's - they tend to be more receptive. Con's - they don't always have cars.
Pro's - they tend to be more dependent on you, (spiritually) which gives you more openers, to work with them and save their soul, then ground them. They are poor/hurting so they have alot of internal spiritual problems they may need help with, (depression, self hate, anxiety, etc). Con's - they (same as above) tend to be more co dependent due to their spiritual struggles. They will take more time and emotional investment. But that is what being a Christian is supposed to be about, loving, serving and helping others, spiritually.
The world ignored Jesus' invite to His banquet. Those who had possessions, blessings, family, etc. So what did Christ do? He invited the poor and hurting - Luke 14:15-24.
Pro's - they tend to be more dependent on you, (spiritually) which gives you more openers, to work with them and save their soul, then ground them. They are poor/hurting so they have alot of internal spiritual problems they may need help with, (depression, self hate, anxiety, etc). Con's - they (same as above) tend to be more co dependent due to their spiritual struggles. They will take more time and emotional investment. But that is what being a Christian is supposed to be about, loving, serving and helping others, spiritually.
The world ignored Jesus' invite to His banquet. Those who had possessions, blessings, family, etc. So what did Christ do? He invited the poor and hurting - Luke 14:15-24.
If someone is poor and does not have a car...
Two solutions:
Option one: Please simply consider this. AND THIS may be the most basic concept and easiest. You may want to test both out. But I recommend option one. I know of new converts who took the bus going to church. Poor people who don't have cars take the bus to go to the grocery store, the doctors, to see family and friends, to go to work, etc. When they are studied with they need to be told the importance of church attendance and in coming, by the means they have to come. The above contacts in this blog, Hannah, Cindy, Laurie have gone to church using the bus. James has mentioned doing this as well. If the new convert is committed to God and in doing what He says, they will make attending church a priority. If you feel like they are not strong enough spiritually to take the initiative, then I recommend option two. But option two should be the last choice to make.
Please keep in mind, besides the bus their is Uber and Lyft. They have options for getting to worship.
Ricky Shanks is a hero of mine. I am the evangelist I am today, because of his example. Ricky had a powerful impact on me when I was a child, when I saw his zeal for God in doing outreach.
I contacted him on his thoughts on this topic. Here is what he wrote. "I had the new converts in poor places where I have worked seek out their own transportation needs. One thing that will ruin a New converts heart is mammon. John chapter 6 is a testimony to Jesus who could not change their heart once they saw him with a physical benefit. If we start throwing physical benefits toward them they will no longer seek the spiritual eternal benefits. On the other side of the coin...is the benefit to the brethren being exposed to new converts excitement. The keyword to look for is initiative! Encourage initiative on the new converts actions and on the brethren’s actions. Initiative is the key to all of us making it to heaven."
This is solid advice. I have lost new converts due to giving to them things that deluded their spiritual interest. Money and things can cause them to turn gears from the heavenly to the earthly. Not saying don't help a new Christian if they are in real need. Nor am I saying not to show them love in encouragement and hospitality. But try to focus on their spiritual needs and help them in these areas. As Ricky says, try to help them be self reliant as Christians. Encourage them to look out for themselves spiritually and to take personal responsibility. If you focus on option one, the problems of option two should not happen.
Again option two should be the last resort. If they are to weak spiritually or if their is another issue that makes option two something to pursue, then do it. If they don't come to church on Sunday, then option two, maybe a good thing to offer. If they are homeless where they cant get a 1-3 dollar bus ticket, you can help with a bus ticket or a ride or with Uber. This second option does create bonds with the driver and passenger as well as help both become more invested in each other spiritually. But please keep in mind, this option might limit future evangelism work due to time expenditure of your church workers and your church resources. Option one is about trying to encourage people to step up and take imitative. This should be the first option to focus on. Option two should be focused on if option one does not work. If you don't think someone will come to church unless someone gets them, then you can use option two.
___________________________________________________________________________
Timestamp 12/30/2019
Updated info, by adding two options. Again picking people up works. But has negative issues connected to it. The below is what I first wrote. I added option one later.
Picking people up 2 days a week, each month, each season, each year, etc. It adds up. Especially when its a large group being picked up. The drivers who pick people up can be limited in their ability to interact with the saints, when the new converts want to leave right after church, which is something some of them want to do. As I mentioned, I've been doing evangelism for awhile, but with successes sometimes comes the new learning curve. Option two can still be pursued if wished. Especially for the reasons I have given above in the blog.
Inviting contacts to church and giving them rides can be pursued as well. But keep in mind of the commitment you will make long term. Each week, month, season and year to the people who will with time, expect you to give them a ride to church. In emergency situations or initially helping someone get to church is fine. But in my personal view, encouraging them to take initiative is best, (except for reasons I already detailed). Option one should be the goal.
Please keep in mind, besides the bus their is Uber and Lyft. They have options for getting to worship.
Ricky Shanks is a hero of mine. I am the evangelist I am today, because of his example. Ricky had a powerful impact on me when I was a child, when I saw his zeal for God in doing outreach.
I contacted him on his thoughts on this topic. Here is what he wrote. "I had the new converts in poor places where I have worked seek out their own transportation needs. One thing that will ruin a New converts heart is mammon. John chapter 6 is a testimony to Jesus who could not change their heart once they saw him with a physical benefit. If we start throwing physical benefits toward them they will no longer seek the spiritual eternal benefits. On the other side of the coin...is the benefit to the brethren being exposed to new converts excitement. The keyword to look for is initiative! Encourage initiative on the new converts actions and on the brethren’s actions. Initiative is the key to all of us making it to heaven."
This is solid advice. I have lost new converts due to giving to them things that deluded their spiritual interest. Money and things can cause them to turn gears from the heavenly to the earthly. Not saying don't help a new Christian if they are in real need. Nor am I saying not to show them love in encouragement and hospitality. But try to focus on their spiritual needs and help them in these areas. As Ricky says, try to help them be self reliant as Christians. Encourage them to look out for themselves spiritually and to take personal responsibility. If you focus on option one, the problems of option two should not happen.
Again option two should be the last resort. If they are to weak spiritually or if their is another issue that makes option two something to pursue, then do it. If they don't come to church on Sunday, then option two, maybe a good thing to offer. If they are homeless where they cant get a 1-3 dollar bus ticket, you can help with a bus ticket or a ride or with Uber. This second option does create bonds with the driver and passenger as well as help both become more invested in each other spiritually. But please keep in mind, this option might limit future evangelism work due to time expenditure of your church workers and your church resources. Option one is about trying to encourage people to step up and take imitative. This should be the first option to focus on. Option two should be focused on if option one does not work. If you don't think someone will come to church unless someone gets them, then you can use option two.
___________________________________________________________________________
Timestamp 12/30/2019
Updated info, by adding two options. Again picking people up works. But has negative issues connected to it. The below is what I first wrote. I added option one later.
Picking people up 2 days a week, each month, each season, each year, etc. It adds up. Especially when its a large group being picked up. The drivers who pick people up can be limited in their ability to interact with the saints, when the new converts want to leave right after church, which is something some of them want to do. As I mentioned, I've been doing evangelism for awhile, but with successes sometimes comes the new learning curve. Option two can still be pursued if wished. Especially for the reasons I have given above in the blog.
Inviting contacts to church and giving them rides can be pursued as well. But keep in mind of the commitment you will make long term. Each week, month, season and year to the people who will with time, expect you to give them a ride to church. In emergency situations or initially helping someone get to church is fine. But in my personal view, encouraging them to take initiative is best, (except for reasons I already detailed). Option one should be the goal.
Option two: If someone is poor and does not have a car. Here are some venues to take...
Key notes on option two: (If option one is not done)
If you and those helping cannot handle the influx of poor/hurting new converts anymore. If you/your group cannot handle any more new contacts, in the way of giving rides or in giving spiritual support to this demographic. Then change your targeting. Instead of focusing on reaching those with disabilities, those hurting, the poorest people, (those homeless or without a car), change the focus to college students and your focus to those in a higher income bracket. You can focus on still reaching out to poor people. But people who have more money, (as in people who have cars, jobs, people who live in better neighborhoods). These people will probably have less emotional issues as well. The results may come more slower in focusing/targeting these groups. But they will come, if the work is done consistently. Now I only point this out, for the simple reason of ones limitation in resources. 1 year I helped add almost 10 people to a congregation in 6 months. They all were very poor and had saints give them rides to church. The church gladly took them in and is helping with transportation. These new converts are a joy to be with and worship with. And are a great encouragement to that local church. Yet, if the church, (which is made up of about 70 members, not including the recent new converts,) added 50 more souls in 3 years, from this above demographic, that church would run into problems. Nothing better then reaching such people. But down the road...if your blessed to be growing to the point you need to change things up....this is something to keep in mind.
- Most churches that actually do want to grow will have members willing to help. The average church has 5-10 percent who participate in a given field of work in the church, (Teaching Bible class, preparing for the Lords Supper, etc). Dying churches won't have such. Extremely zealous/ growing church will have more helpers. But most churches have the 5-10 stat. In this venue, most churches should have 5-10 members willing to help pick people up.
- If for some reason, you can't get any help from those who have volunteered, (due to being out of town/sick) on a given day, you can use Uber or Lyft. When you use them... You will see it allows you to choose the pick up location and drop of location. Also, you can message the driver and give him/her instructions, if you feel the need to share something, (like for example, "your picking up a middle aged man, named Jared to drive him to church," etc.) These apps will give you the drivers name and car color, image and model. They will also let you know how close the car is to the pick up point. Text or call the person who is being picked up. Let them know the car info (for identification) and when the car is almost there. It is a good idea, if they are new to coming to church or new to being picked up in a Uber/Lyft car to text them to remind them, early the day before. And to (warmly/tactfully) ask for a text back, (for confirmation). If you send a car and they don't show up, it's a very small fee, (a few dollars) for the drivers inconvenience. Once they are at church, after services, see if a church member can drive them home or you can use Uber/Lyft again.
- If you got a ton of people coming, to the point where members helping won't work, (alone)....get the congregation to pay a church member to take them in his/her large vehicle, (bus, SUV, truck, van, etc.) If the pay is for transportation to church, then that is a spiritual reason and a justifiable one for the Lord's funds.
Key notes on option two: (If option one is not done)
If you and those helping cannot handle the influx of poor/hurting new converts anymore. If you/your group cannot handle any more new contacts, in the way of giving rides or in giving spiritual support to this demographic. Then change your targeting. Instead of focusing on reaching those with disabilities, those hurting, the poorest people, (those homeless or without a car), change the focus to college students and your focus to those in a higher income bracket. You can focus on still reaching out to poor people. But people who have more money, (as in people who have cars, jobs, people who live in better neighborhoods). These people will probably have less emotional issues as well. The results may come more slower in focusing/targeting these groups. But they will come, if the work is done consistently. Now I only point this out, for the simple reason of ones limitation in resources. 1 year I helped add almost 10 people to a congregation in 6 months. They all were very poor and had saints give them rides to church. The church gladly took them in and is helping with transportation. These new converts are a joy to be with and worship with. And are a great encouragement to that local church. Yet, if the church, (which is made up of about 70 members, not including the recent new converts,) added 50 more souls in 3 years, from this above demographic, that church would run into problems. Nothing better then reaching such people. But down the road...if your blessed to be growing to the point you need to change things up....this is something to keep in mind.
Other topics of evangelism and driving
You probably have read in the past posts in my blog and have seen in my street/campus sign up sheets the details of "driving a contact to church." One of the things I do (in this work) is I have learning curves. Having alot of contacts or new converts coming to church due to people from the congregation picking them up, may seem like a good idea, yet it can get out of hand, in time, organization, energy and resources. If a church of 70 people adds 60 people in a few years, who expect to be picked up, this can undermine the church long term in its future growth. AS well as the churches resources, energy and its attitude, (in burnout). If 80 percent of the people who attend a congregation are depended on lets say 20 percent of its members for church work and church support, then (with time) the church will fold in on itself. This is another reason to try to encourage new contacts/converts to take initiative in their lives to do for themselves.
Timestamp 12/30/2019
Timestamp 12/30/2019
Updated example of Bible study sign up sheets
(change them for your own use)
See April and May Report 18 for more details.
(change them for your own use)
See April and May Report 18 for more details.
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_study_at_flea_market_.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_tampa_bridge_in_tampa_city.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_university_of_tampa_by_bridge_walkway.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_clearwater_beach.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_riverwalk_in_tampa_city.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_door_knocking_near_church_building_.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_hcc_dale_mabry.doc |
| updated_sign_up_for_bible_studies_at_usf.doc |
Cold Approach
I tend to have success with Cold Approach. It is one of my favorite methods. It's social and for all occasions. The method is geared for people you meet at work, the gym, the grocery store, karate lessons, the barbershop, etc. who you chat up with. As with networking or in asking someone out, you approach, start a conversation, then steer it to a desired topic, like business, if your talking shop, or a cup of Joe, if you are interested in going on a date.
Cold Approach (evangelism) is similar, but you steer the conversation towards spiritual things, like an invite to church or a Bible study. This format can also be used in talking with family members and friends.
It maybe intimidating to think about doing this. It maybe way left field of what you think you can do. But if you want to grow in the area's of social interaction, learning this method is worth it. Also, Cold Approach is a great way to do invites.
I'd encourage you to try to talk to 5 people a day. It can just be a brief hello or good morning. But this with time, will change your social (mind) state. Also, visit my Cold Approach page, https://www.churchofchristevangelism.com/cold-approach.html.
At this page, I have a program, (I made), that helped me become comfortable with approaching people. I used to be very timid and shy. The exercises in this program helped me overcome my fears.
The site also has other useful details on Cold Approach.
For me the stat's (on average) are 1-10 people to get a "yes" response for a Bible study. It depends on where someone is at, socially. For different folks it maybe higher, it maybe lower. The better one get's the smaller the number gets.
Cold Approach (evangelism) is similar, but you steer the conversation towards spiritual things, like an invite to church or a Bible study. This format can also be used in talking with family members and friends.
It maybe intimidating to think about doing this. It maybe way left field of what you think you can do. But if you want to grow in the area's of social interaction, learning this method is worth it. Also, Cold Approach is a great way to do invites.
I'd encourage you to try to talk to 5 people a day. It can just be a brief hello or good morning. But this with time, will change your social (mind) state. Also, visit my Cold Approach page, https://www.churchofchristevangelism.com/cold-approach.html.
At this page, I have a program, (I made), that helped me become comfortable with approaching people. I used to be very timid and shy. The exercises in this program helped me overcome my fears.
The site also has other useful details on Cold Approach.
For me the stat's (on average) are 1-10 people to get a "yes" response for a Bible study. It depends on where someone is at, socially. For different folks it maybe higher, it maybe lower. The better one get's the smaller the number gets.
Evangelism Success StoriesThis slide show will share stories of people coming to the Lord.
|
Click on video link. |
Evangelism is a team effort.
A special thank you to all who have helped me through the years.
Here are some of the pictures I found of the evangelism group. I don't have everyone who has helped me in these below pictures. But I wanted to highlight these photos below to help emphasis my nostalgia and appreciation for those who helped me in soul saving work. Some of the photos were taken after the outreach event. We tend to grab a bite to eat after doing the evangelism work. Other pictures record people helping me in doing evangelism events. Other pictures record the group after they did their work. Some also show new converts and those on the team helping me with doing baptisms. A heartfelt thank you to all of you who have helped me through the years in following the NT command, The command of sharing Jesus.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The end of (sharing) the recorded Journey
I have so enjoyed sharing my journey with you all, during the past few years. You've been apart of my work, when you followed me, in these blog posts during these many seasons. I'm grateful for your interest in the cause of Christ. If enough of His people join in doing the noble cause of evangelism, we can set the world afire and change the tide, (from dying churches to growing churches).
Most importantly, we can help bring more souls to the Cross.
The goal of this blog was to share useful recordings on outreach. I wanted to share tools, tips, methods that have helped me.
The purpose of these recording I feel has been completed. I will pray for your labor in outreach. Please remember me in kind.
May God be glorified in us, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Sincerely,
Joseph Sullivan
P..S Please know, I will keep updating my content and I will still be sharing info on this site.
Timestamp 2020
Most importantly, we can help bring more souls to the Cross.
The goal of this blog was to share useful recordings on outreach. I wanted to share tools, tips, methods that have helped me.
The purpose of these recording I feel has been completed. I will pray for your labor in outreach. Please remember me in kind.
May God be glorified in us, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Sincerely,
Joseph Sullivan
P..S Please know, I will keep updating my content and I will still be sharing info on this site.
Timestamp 2020
