From The Parker Pen....

“...evangelism is a topic that often makes people uneasy.”

Last Sunday we celebrated our first ever “Evangelism Sundae.” Following the worship service we had an ice cream social/evangelism fair. Participants were encouraged to answer a brief questionnaire that helped to identify their “Evangelism Style.” They were then encouraged to visit the display table that focused on their particular style and consider responding by reading a book or taking a class.

I sense that people found the day surprisingly enjoyable. I say surprisingly, because evangelism is a topic that often makes people uneasy. Perhaps our discomfort is because we have a limited understanding of evangelism. The image that flashes into our minds is of a street-corner preacher or going door-to-door to share a Gospel tract. These are both high-wire acts with no net!

I have been pleased to discover that there are several models of effective evangelism, and all of them are equally valid. I appreciate a recent article in Christianity Today which reads, “People naturally tell the gospel in their own particular way. Some focus on a change of heart, mind, or direction; others major on judgment or conviction of sin. We need all of the above. Jesus did not speak the same blanket message to all people. Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman received very different messages. Indeed, some might criticize Jesus for not presenting the gospel comprehensively on every occasion. Evangelicals needn’t be afraid of new approaches to the gospel. We managed to get through 1,900 years of Christian history without the Four Spiritual Laws and the bridge diagram. Let us continue to explore and share the gospel in ways old and new.”

I think that as each of us discovers our “style,” evangelism will become a less scary proposition. Indeed, it will become natural and more effective for it will be authentic. Your style might be Assertive, Analytical, Storytelling, Relational, Invitational or Incarnational. Whatever it might be, I hope you will take the time to discover it, and then put it into action. There are lives that will be touched, changed and made whole by your witness.

—Dr. Harry L. Parker.