Partnering with Local Churches for a Gospel Advance - Enjoying the Journey
Gospel work is the work of local churches and, as an evangelist, it is a great privilege to partner with pastors and churches for the advancement of the gospel. The gospel is still the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16), the Holy Spirit is still at work (John 16:8), and Christ is still building His church (Matthew 16:18). If we believe this, then we should still be passionate about getting the gospel to others!
The Great Commission must be obeyed individually, but the impact of it is most profound as we partner together to reach the lost. The principle of partnership is woven throughout the New Testament and it is a key to gospel advancement (2 Corinthians 8:23). Paul said it best when he wrote, “…stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27).
It is with this conviction that we are preparing to conduct our first Gospel Advance with the Enjoying the Journey team. Our dear friend and ETJ podcast host, Pastor Greg Dowdy, and the Harvest Baptist Church in Owensboro, KY are hosting this special evangelistic endeavor. Our goal is two-fold:
1. To get the gospel to as many people as possible. The church family is working to distribute thousands of pieces of gospel literature throughout their city. Our team is looking forward spending several days there helping to conduct children’s Bible clubs and daily soul winning efforts. Next Sunday is “New Start Sunday” and gospel meetings will be held both morning and evening along with special children’s rallies.
2. To enlist, equip, engage, and encourage gospel witnesses. If everything reproduces after its own kind, then evangelists should not just leave behind new believers – they should leave behind new witnesses! It is not just about what goes into a meeting, but what will grow out of it. I am convinced that the real work is done after a special emphasis and the most fruit will come from every believer finding their place in the work of the gospel. On the Monday and Tuesday evenings after “New Start Sunday” we will be conducting evangelism training for believers, with the prayer that God will multiply the work force and the lasting effects.
How could you be a part?
- Pray for us. Ask the Lord to use all who are involved and to save many souls. Pray with us for more gospel laborers (Matthew 9:38).
- Come join us. If you are within driving distance of Owensboro, KY we would love for you to join us on Monday-Tuesday, April 15-16. The training sessions will be held each evening at the Harvest Baptist Church at 7 pm.
- Labor with us. Gospel work must be done everywhere! We hope to partner with other churches in the days ahead for a Gospel Advance, but all of us can do what we can right where we are. Ask the Lord what He wants you to do to advance His message and cause in your area.
“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:9).
Hudson Taylor said, “God is always advancing.” This is not the time to retreat. This is not the time to detour. This is not the time to sit still. This is the time to advance! May God help us to move forward with Him.
