Why isn't the church of our Lord growing like
it did in the first century? Some blame it on our culture, others
on immorality. I attribute it to a lack of interest, indifference,
and inactivity on the part of the believer! God's people seemingly
have little concern, not only for their own spiritual well-being,
but also for the well-being of their fellow man. Too, comfortable
life-styles have led many Christians into a state of complacency.
Have God's people of the 21st century forgotten that they, like
the first century church, are merely strangers and pilgrims in
this old world (Heb. 11:13; 1 Pet. 2:11)? There is no need in
getting too comfortable in this life; a better life awaits the
faithful! Thus, the child of God must be actively involved in
all areas of the Lord's work while here on earth. Such would include
evangelism! The early church grew and multiplied, even under the
most adverse circumstances, because they took evangelism personally!
They loved the souls of men and did what they could to convert
them. There is no better example of this than what is recorded
in Acts 8:1ff. Christians were being persecuted and scattered,
yet they went everywhere preaching the Gospel (Acts 8:4). Philip,
the evangelist, reveals the necessary ingredients needed to assure
successful personal work.
First, Philip had the right attitude. Despite
persecution, Philip went everywhere preaching the Gospel. His
faith in God was uncompromising and unwavering. Too, he did not
allow success to get to his head. Also, when he was told to go,
he went and showed no ill-will toward any man. To be involved
in personal work, or any work of the church for that matter, one
must have the right attitude! It all begins with the heart. God
must be number one in all that the child of God does. Many are
not involved because God is not number one in their lives. If
this be the case, an attitude adjustment is needed immediately!
Secondly, Philip had the right approach. He went
to where the people were (Acts 8:5, 26-29, 40). He went with a
sense of urgency (Acts 8:30a). He initiated religious conversation
(Acts 8:30b). He did not force himself or his faith on people
(Acts 8:31). He, too, began with where people were spiritually
(Acts 8:32-35). Philip was uncompromising in his faith, yet implemented
tact and grace in his methodology. God's people often close doors
of opportunity because they employ the wrong approach. They're
often rude and unkind. Many times they do not act fast enough,
or they don't begin with where people are spiritually. One would
do well to follow the strategy utilized by Philip.
Finally, Philip had the right answer for those
seeking truth - JESUS! Beginning at the same scripture, Philip
preached Jesus unto the eunuch (Acts 8:35). Question: How did
the eunuch learn the necessity of baptism (Acts 8:36)? It must
be inferred that in preaching Jesus, Philip proclaimed the Lord's
plan as well, including baptism, the church, etc. The right answer
demands a proclamation of both Christ and the church. We cannot
have one without the other (Acts 8:12)! Having a right attitude
and a right approach necessitates a right answer. To do so demands
diligent study on the part of the believer (2 Tim. 2:15). Proper
and thorough study will equip the personal worker with the knowledge
needed to answer any and all questions relative to the hope that
is within them (1 Pet. 3:15).
It is interesting to note that though angels were
employed by God in audible and visible ways in the first century,
they did not directly instruct candidates for the gospel in the
way of salvation. God had committed that responsibility to "earthen
vessels" (2 Cor. 4:7). It's up to God's people to get out
there and proclaim Christ! Dispersion truly does lead to conversion!
In so doing, the church will begin to grow and prosper as it once
did! It all begins with the right attitude, followed by the right
approach, topped off with the right answer- JESUS! 710 Rock Creek
Rd., Erwin, TN 37650. (423) 743-7741.