THE ROLE OF THE EVANGELISTIC TEAM IN THE CHURCH

Bible Study: THE ROLE OF THE EVANGELISTIC TEAM IN THE CHURCH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 28:19-20
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Supporting Texts:
Mark 16:15
Acts 1:8
Romans 10:14-15
Proverbs 11:30
2 Timothy 4:5

INTRODUCTION:
Evangelism is the heartbeat of the Church. It is through the work of evangelistic teams that the Good News of salvation is shared, souls are won for Christ, and the kingdom of God is expanded. The evangelistic team plays a vital role in fulfilling the Great Commission, ensuring the Church remains focused on its core mission. This study explores the purpose, responsibilities, and strategies of an effective evangelistic team.

1. THE PURPOSE OF THE EVANGELISTIC TEAM

The evangelistic team exists to fulfil God’s mandate to spread the Gospel.

a) Sharing the Gospel of Christ: Proclaim the message of salvation through Jesus (Romans 1:16).

b) Reaching the unreached: Target those who have not yet heard about Christ (Romans 15:20).

c) Reviving the backslidden: Encourage those who have drifted away to return to God (James 5:19-20).

d) Demonstrating God’s love: Use acts of kindness to open doors for evangelism (Matthew 5:16).

e) Biblical Example: The apostles obeyed the Great Commission and spread the Gospel (Acts 2:41-47).

2. QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE EVANGELISTIC TEAM

Members of an evangelistic team should embody certain traits to be effective.

a) Deep commitment to Christ: A personal relationship with Jesus is essential (John 15:5).

b) Compassion for the lost: A genuine burden for souls drives their efforts (Matthew 9:36).

c) Boldness to proclaim the Word: Overcoming fear to preach the Gospel (2 Timothy 1:7).

d) Knowledge of the Scriptures: Ability to share the Word accurately (2 Timothy 2:15).

e) Biblical Example: Paul demonstrated boldness and compassion in his missionary journeys (Acts 20:20-21).

3. STRATEGIES FOR AN EFFECTIVE EVANGELISTIC TEAM

Success in evangelism requires strategic planning and execution.

a) Organising outreach programmes: Plan events like crusades, house-to-house evangelism, and missions (Acts 5:42).

b) Leveraging media and technology: Use social media, radio, and TV to spread the Gospel (Psalm 96:3).

c) Training team members: Equip them with the knowledge and tools for effective evangelism (Ephesians 4:11-12).

d) Collaborating with other ministries: Work with other church departments for holistic impact (1 Corinthians 12:12).

e) Biblical Example: Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch demonstrates Spirit-led evangelism (Acts 8:26-39).

4. BENEFITS OF A FUNCTIONAL EVANGELISTIC TEAM

A thriving evangelistic team brings growth and vitality to the Church.

a) Soul-winning: Adds new members to the Church and the Kingdom of God (Acts 2:41).

b) Church growth: A growing congregation energises the Church’s mission (Proverbs 14:28).

c) Revitalising members’ faith: Active evangelism deepens spiritual commitment (Philemon 1:6).

d) Strengthening community impact: The Church becomes a beacon of hope and transformation (Matthew 5:14).

e) Biblical Example: The early Church grew rapidly because of the apostles’ evangelistic efforts (Acts 4:4).

5. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES IN EVANGELISM

Evangelistic work comes with its share of obstacles, but these can be overcome.

a) Fear of rejection: Trust God for boldness and courage (Joshua 1:9).

b) Lack of resources: Depend on God’s provision and creativity (Philippians 4:19).

c) Resistance to the Gospel: Approach with wisdom and love (Matthew 10:16).

d) Spiritual warfare: Engage in prayer and fasting for breakthroughs (Ephesians 6:12-13).

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah overcame opposition to rebuild Jerusalem through prayer and determination (Nehemiah 4:9-20).

CONCLUSION:
The evangelistic team is central to the mission of the Church. Their work ensures that the Gospel is spread, lives are transformed, and the Kingdom of God expands. Let us commit to supporting and participating in this vital ministry, knowing that our labour in the Lord is never in vain.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, grant us the boldness to share Your Word.

2. Father, give us a burden for the lost souls around us.

3. Lord, anoint every member of the evangelistic team for effective ministry.

4. Father, let our evangelistic efforts bear lasting fruits.

5. Lord, provide all the resources needed for our outreach programmes.

6. Father, open hearts to receive the message of salvation.

7. Lord, empower the Church to fulfil the Great Commission.

8. Father, protect and strengthen evangelistic teams against spiritual attacks.

9. Lord, increase our love for the community and our passion for evangelism.

10. Father, let our efforts glorify Your name and grow Your Kingdom.