Evangelism - The Attempt to CP2G

Four Functions of the Church - Worship, Nurture, Ministry, Evangelism

Today - Evangelism - 2 Cor. 5:17-20

Focus is on the message, NOT the methods. It is our Christian duty to present a clear gospel message. Note: Bridge Illustration.
Purpose today is not to convince, but to inform and prepare



The scripture teaches and the Bridge illustrates that:

I. We are separated from God by our sin(s).
1st. Sin is an action/attitude contrary to God's will, desire, intent. It is inherent (born that way), universal (everybody), *chosen (we come to a point in life where we KNOW right from wrong)

2nd. Separation does not mean no contact with the person or purpose of God. It does not mean you are separated from His love and concern. Eph. 4:17-18 - other words: "lost/dead/condemned.
We are hopelessly separated (can't fix it) - Rom. 3:20 - good works only make us aware of how separated we are.
We are eternally separated (hell???) John 3:18 - state that we live in, stay in, the way it is.

The tension (problem): On one hand you have God's unconditional love.
On the other hand God's uncompromising holiness.
The answer/solution is not either/or. The answer is BOTH as shown in Jesus Christ. He came down, emptied himself, paid the price.

II. The way to reconciliation is through Jesus Christ.
Rom. 5:1-2 (a) - "stand" Eph. 3:12
Crossing leads to forgiveness, reconciliation, new birth (nature), place in heaven

Most people don't object to Jesus as A way.
The objection is to Jesus as The way.
Note: Words of Paul: I Tim. 2:5 - one God and one Mediator
Peter: Acts 4:12
Jesus: John 14:6

I & II are the most important points, but the Bridge also illustrates:

III. The Freewill of man. - Rev. 22:17 KJV "whosoever" believes, confesses, calls upon....

Therefore:

IV. The Necessary Response of (free) man.
Rev. 3:20 - "hears and opens"
On one hand it is by grace, but, grace requires response.

Therefore:

V. The Need for Evangelism.
A. People are separated and stand condemned
B. They can't accept until they know - Rom. 10:13-14

VI. The Responsibility of the Evangelist
(obvious) the process requires God's presence - John 6:44/65
(also obvious) the process requires God's people - Rev. 22:17 - "Spirit and the bride (Christians)...."

Rom. 1:16 - "not ashamed" to accept/receive Christ. "not ashamed" to share Christ.



*animation from bellsnwhistles.com