Be Available to Your One

With new emphasis on evangelism in the SBC, it is exciting to hear stories of salvation through multiplication in the state of West Virginia!

Between the “3 Circles” evangelism tool and the intentionality of the “Who’s Your One” evangelistic initiative, churches have been inundated with an effective one-two evangelism punch. All are called, and anyone can share Christ with some basic training, encouragement, and the Holy Spirit’s leading.

But, I have discovered that many do not share Christ because of one thing. They don’t know how to start the conversation. That reality is exactly why the SBC has placed resources in the hands of pastors and their congregations.

HOW DO I START THE CONVERSATION?

The answer is intentionality. Many Christians may consider themselves extroverted, but to spontaneously share the Gospel with a stranger would be completely out of the question.

The other side of that same coin is an openness to relational vulnerability. We live in a culture that is more connected through social media that ever before, yet no one really knows each other.

In a recent blog post, Dr. Eric Geiger shared that iGens, those born in 1996 or later, read less, are less happy, have fewer social skills, and possess less community than any other generation before them. The job, therefore, of the church is more important now than ever because the urgency of evangelism has down shifted over the last 20 years.

In 2009, a book by Kai Mark titled “Pre-Discipleship” was mostly overlooked, but recently this term is making a comeback in discussions within Christian circles. What does pre-discipleship entail? It is basically allowing yourself to be available to your one through intentionality.

Through relationships, one can present the Word long before that person is saved, but our culture has become overwhelmed with calendars and the cost of time is at its highest premium.

Regardless, a disciple of Jesus must think strategically. The balance of eternity for countless millions is at stake. How important is that one on your prayer list, your mind, and your heart?

Availability is key, so consider these questions.

DOES YOUR ONE …

• Know you care about them at all
• See you outside of church, school, or work
• Understand your theology about world view, suffering, or hardships
• Sense that they could call you for any reason
• Trust you to keep your lips sealed about their fears and struggles
• Hear how Jesus has changed your life outside of your evangelist mode
• Know what the Gospel is even though they have yet to confess Jesus as Lord

Your answers are a litmus test of your availability. Jesus cared for more than just one person and made himself available for all. Mark 2:15 says, “While he was reclining at the table in Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who were following him.”

Let’s follow Christ’s example and become more available to our one.