Evangelism should be the lifestyle of every disciple of Jesus.
Compassion toward all human beings is part of our calling and enables us to see the lost through the eyes of Jesus to lead them to Him.
Evangelism is preaching the Gospel and taking care of new believers to lead them into maturity.
We can better understand Evangelism and Compassion and how it relates to the Church and our lives by exploring the following;
- Preaching the Gospel and Witnessing
- Compassion for those in need
- Evangelism and making disciples
- Christ’s Commission
The word “compassion” means to have sympathy, concern, empathy, kindness, or mercy. It is a deep awareness of the suffering of someone coupled with the wish to relieve it; it is sorrow or pity for the need of another person with a desire to help.
This emotional feeling comes to us when we see actions or hear news or understand truth.
We will have compassion when we understand the desperate need of a person or a community along with their helplessness to find a solution.
Compassion comes to us as we learn that people are under the control of someone or something that is keeping them from being free.
We live in a world of revenge, anger, and hatred. The existence of this world depends on the group of people who has the habit of showing compassion. Anybody can get into trouble unexpectedly. If timely help does not reach a helpless and needy person, it can result in worse situations. People who have shown compassion to others also need help and compassion when they themselves get into helpless situations.
Compassion is the heart of Christianity
The heart of the Bible’s message is God’s compassion for all human beings. When sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience, everyone became a slave to the devil. The wages of sin are death. The whole of humanity had lost its relationship with God, resulting in eternal death for all mankind. Satan ruled over all human beings as a taskmaster. But God saw the helplessness of man and had compassion for him. He loved man and planned a way of salvation for all of humanity.
God sent His only son Jesus to show His compassion to the lost world; Jesus was the embodiment of God’s compassion for His people. The declaration of Jesus in Luke 4:18-19, which some people call the “Nazareth Manifesto,” reveals that He saw the desperate need of those people whom He wanted to serve and save. They were poor, brokenhearted, captive, blind, and crushed.
It is also good to remember that Satan wanted to show Jesus a different world. It was a glorious and glittering world. The healthy, wealthy, and powerful people lived there. They were self-sufficient (Matthew 4:8). It is up to us to decide what we want to look at; we need to choose to see the world through the eyes of Jesus. Then we will have compassionate hearts just like Christ (Mark 6:34)
Christ’s compassion compels us to action
Jesus’ example challenges us to forsake our own desires and to act compassionately towards others, particularly those in need or distress. Jesus moved with compassion towards those in need (Matthew 9:36; Matthew 14:14; Matthew 15:32; Matthew 20:34; Mark 6:34; Mark 8:2; Luke 15:20). Those who walk with the Lord should have compassion on those who are in physical, spiritual, and emotional need (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-13; Philippians 2:1-2; 1 Peter 3:8).
In our compassion, we fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). Matthew 14:14 says, “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” He sees sick people and has compassion. Again, in Matthew 15:32, “Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, ‘I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.’” God’s compassion should motivate and shape our response to the world around us.
Compassion always leads a person to action.
The compassionate heart of Jesus led Him to do what He did; the miracles of Jesus came out of His compassion. Compassion is not just a feeling—it requires action. Compassion, will lead us to actions that will bring relief, healing, strength, and deliverance to those who are in need. Real compassion is not a theory, kept in mind or written on papers. We see and feel the practical side of it in the marketplace, on the roadside, or whenever anyone is in need. If compassion does not move us to action, it is not complete (Mark 1:41; Matthew 20:34; Matthew 14:14; Mark 8:2; Luke 7:13).
When was the last time I truly grieved over a lost soul? Am I moved by compassion to the point of sacrificial involvement in bringing others to Christ?
Stories of compassion
Jesus not only ministered to the needs of people as He was moved with compassion. He also taught His followers to practice it. What is the implication of the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)? We are asked to “go and do” like this Samaritan.
The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 reveals the compassionate heart of the father. When we see the desperate need of those who run from God, our actions should reveal the father’s heart of God to those who are around us.
Matthew 25
Jesus also taught that there is a reward for those who show compassion to the needy. Let us take time to read Matthew 25:31-45. This chapter is one of the strongest teachings of Jesus. A careful study of these verses will always motivate us to be people of compassion. Moreover, it will open our eyes, and we will receive a higher revelation of Jesus walking around us as a needy person.
Do we see any pictures of Jesus as a hungry, thirsty, naked, sick, captive person today? Where will we see Him like this? We need to look at the newspapers, watch the television, and see with our own eyes out there in the villages and cities; as a result of wars, famine, terrorism, earthquakes, and other natural disasters, the numbers of the suffering people are increasing daily—we should show the same love and care for these suffering people as if they were Christ.
Mother Teresa was a famous Catholic missionary from Yugoslavia. She was moved with compassion as she saw the numerous orphans and disabled children in the street of Calcutta, India. As she read Matthew 25, she saw Jesus in these children. From that moment, her entire life was dedicated to serving these thousands of people. She said that Matthew 25 had changed her whole life. No wonder the world honored her by awarding her the Nobel Peace Prize.
Examples Of Compassion
Jesus also gave a strong warning to those who do not show compassion.
He taught that there is a severe punishment for those who do not show compassion to those who are in need (Matthew 25:31-46). This portion of the Bible tells us that helping the needy is not an option or a choice—it is a command. The offenders will be punished with everlasting punishment. Listen to the argument of the people who God condemns: “We have not seen you as hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, and sick or in prison” (Matthew 25:44). It seems they had an ‘eye’ problem. They were blind; they did not see the needy Jesus. Or perhaps their eyes were fixed on the glorious splendor of this world. If Satan tried to show it to Jesus and tried to persuade Him to possess it, would he not persuade us to fix our eyes on the wealth and riches of this world?
Henry Martin, a committed missionary, was once preaching among beggars. During his message, he said “Jesus loves you.” Those listening to him were touched by these words, and many beggars received his message with tears of joy because they could finally hear that there was somebody who loved them, took care of them, and had compassion for them. They grew up in a situation of hatred and abuse, without love or care. But when they heard these words “God loves you,” tears rolled down their cheeks. We possess a message of comfort and compassion for this hurting world. While it is important to minister to the physical or societal needs of people, it is critical to show compassion for those under the yoke of Satan who are spiritually dead.
What Is Global Disciples?
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Every wondered why Jesus talks so much about need for preaching the Gospel and making disciples? Read on to find out why!
Evangelism is preaching the Gospel and taking care of new believers to lead them into maturity.
We can better understand Evangelism and Compassion and how it relates our lives by exploring the following;
- Preaching the Gospel and Witnessing
- Compassion for those in need
- Evangelism and making disciples
- Christ’s Commission
The need for preaching the Gospel
God created every human being for a close relationship with Him (John 3:16). But human beings disobeyed God by violating His commandments and deciding to turn away from Him (Romans 3:23). The punishment for this disobedience and sin is death and hell (Romans 6:23). However, God, in His mercy, wanted to save the whole world. God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten son—Jesus Christ—from heaven to earth. Jesus lived a sinless life and pleased the Father God through His life.
Finally, He died on the cross, taking the wages of sin for the whole world. Jesus loved us to the extent of giving His own life for us. On the third day, God raised Jesus from the dead, and Jesus ascended into heaven. Jesus will come back again to take everyone who believes in Him back to heaven where they will be with Him forever. Jesus Christ is the Gospel (2 Timothy 2:8) and there is no salvation without Him (Acts 4:12).
As sinners, when we come to Jesus Christ and ask Him for the forgiveness of our sins, He forgives us and cleanses us from all of our sins with His precious blood. He fills us with His Spirit, His love, and His compassion so that we will reflect Him in our daily lives. We become the children of God because we are called out of the darkness of sin and Satan into His marvelous light in Jesus Christ. As people who experience the love and compassion of God, we become the agents of transformation to the rest of the world
Why do we preach the Gospel?
If we do not preach the Gospel, people will die in their sins without hearing the Good News of Jesus. There is no other way of salvation except through Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). The Gospel is the power of God to transform lives (Romans 1:16). We also know that the time is short which creates an urgency to preach the Gospel. Jesus commanded us to go and preach the Good News (Mark 16:15).
The Gospel is the Good News of salvation for the whole of humanity. We must use all of the methods and media at our disposal to spread that message. God does not want anyone to perish but wants all to repent of their sins and receive the free gift of salvation.
Preaching reminds us not only of the preacher’s passion, conviction, vigor, and enthusiasm for what he is preaching but also of the urgency of communicating that message.
When we preach the Gospel, we must expect results
When we preach the Gospel, we must expect results—transformation and repentance (Acts 2:37-38; Acts 18:8); miracles and wonders (Mark 16:15-18); persecution and imprisonment (Acts 16:20-24); even death (Acts 7:54-60). Regardless of the results, the Lord Jesus is always with the preacher (Acts 18:9-10; 2 Timothy 4:16-17). All of us who have experienced the power of the Gospel are called to preach it.
A famous bishop in South India asked every believer after baptism to place the Bible and a hand on their head and repeat 1 Corinthians 9:16 three times. This practice eventually produced thousands of powerful preachers from that region, and churches multiplied. In 1 Corinthians 9:16-17, Paul said, “If I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for I am under compulsion; for woe is me if I do not preach the gospel. For if I do this voluntarily, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have a stewardship entrusted to me” (emphasis added).
Sin has alienated people from God, and they must be reconciled to Him. Reconciliation means “the bringing together of two parties that are in dispute; particularly, Christ’s bringing God and man together, the result of which is salvation.”
However, reconciliation comes through Christ alone who came to take our sin upon Himself and grant us His righteousness. We are ambassadors of that message. An ambassador is a special representative from one government appointed to represent its government’s interests to another. To represent Christ is a high honor and a significant investment of our lives.
The goal of preaching the Gospel
We preach the Gospel with a desire to see the salvation of the people (Acts 4:12; Matthew 24:14; 1 Peter 4:6). Those who believe will be saved and those who do not will be condemned (Mark 16:15-16). Those who are saved through the repentance and confession of their sins come together in local fellowships to worship God. One of the goals of preaching the Gospel is to establish new churches or strengthen already existing churches by adding more disciples into them. The formation of a worshipping community among unreached people should be our goal.
What motivates us to preach the Gospel?
The love of Christ is what motivates us to preach the Gospel (2 Corinthians 5:14). He died for us while we were yet sinners—His love compels us. Jesus purchased us by His precious blood, and we belong to His family. We see the world through the compassionate heart and eyes of Jesus. If we love Him, we will keep His commandments—and one of His commandments is to preach the Gospel.
Therefore, the heart of a preacher is very important. We understand the two kingdoms that are at work on the face of the earth. Satan has blinded the eyes of the unbelievers and they are being led to hell. Hell is the place of eternal torment prepared for Satan and those who follow him (Mark 9:47-49). On the other hand, the loving heavenly Father wants all mankind to live with Him forever in heaven. We are the people who stand between heaven and hell to proclaim ‘come and be saved.’ It has to be done with urgency, love, compassion, and prayer.
Boldness in preaching the Gospel
How we present the Gospel is very important. Boldness is one of the most important aspects in preaching the Gospel. In the Book of Acts 4:13, we read, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” The boldness to preach the Gospel comes from the deep conviction that the Lord Jesus is the only way of salvation (Acts 4:12). The conviction of a person who has received the forgiveness of sins in Jesus will help him/her to be effective in communicating the Gospel.
Memorizing Scripture
We need to memorize verses from the Bible which can be used in communicating the Gospel. For example, Romans 3:23 tells us that all have sinned. Romans 6:23 says that the wages of sin is death. John 3:16 says that God so loved the world and sent His son for us. Romans 10:9-10 tells us that we can be saved by faith. Romans 8:1 says that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. John 1:12 says if we believe and accept God’s free gift of salvation, we become His children. There are many more verses that can be used to lead someone to the Lord depending on the background and knowledge of that person (1 Peter 3:15).
The definition of witnessing (Isaiah 43:10)
The word witnessing is used mostly in the courts to tell others about what one has seen, heard, or experienced. No one can truly witness without hearing, seeing, or experiencing (1 John 1:1-2). As we become the children of God, we share the joy of being in the family of God. We are the people chosen to witness the love of God to all who have never heard of it. We are to bear witness through our words and deeds. Others have to see and hear about the love of God in and through us. As witnesses of Jesus, we need to maintain a close walk and fellowship with Jesus on a daily basis. One of the characteristics of first-century Christians was that “they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). In other words, if we are disconnected from Jesus, we do not have a message to tell.
In preaching, we proclaim or communicate the Good News of Jesus, but in witnessing, we tell what we have experienced as disciples of Jesus. Our personal life, therefore, is very important. Every disciple is called to declare the goodness of the one who called us out from darkness into light. We need to reflect the character of the Lord Jesus through our life. As disciples, we are the living epistles, the Gospel in human form to affect the world. We preach with our actions and reactions. Someone correctly said once, “Preach the gospel through all means . . . use the words if needed.” A witness of the Gospel should have the boldness to say like Apostle Paul, “imitate [follow] me as I imitate Christ”(I Corinthians 11:1).
Being Salt And Light And Preaching The Gospel.
As witnesses, His disciples are to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). We need to reflect the life of Christ (I Peter 2:21; Colossians 3:12; Philippians 2:5-11). In 2 Kings 4:9, we read the testimony of the Shunammite woman about Elisha, the prophet of the Lord. She says, “I know this man who often comes this way is a holy man of God.”
Another example is that of the well-known preacher Sadhu Sunder Singh from Punjab, India. He used to walk to Tibet many times in only his bare feet and preach the Gospel. When he reached the countryside, the children used to run to their mothers to tell them that Jesus had come to their village. Once, while visiting a rich man’s house, the servant of that house came to the door and asked him to stay there while he called his master. The servant’s message to his master about this man was, “A person, who looks like Jesus is waiting at the door.” Hearing this message, the master ordered to let him be greeted with honor, and he hurried to receive him. This example tells us that witnessing has to be done through our lives. We need to live exemplary lives. Our lives should not contradict what we speak.
The role of the Holy Spirit in witnessing
The power of the Holy Spirit is another important prerequisite to witness for Jesus as He told His disciples to stay in Jerusalem until they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). The first-century Christians waited until they had received the Holy Spirit as Jesus promised. The anointing of the Holy Spirit was an appointing to preach the Gospel and to be witnesses for Jesus.
We should allow the Holy Spirit to work within us. He comes into us and convicts us about our sins, our need for righteousness, and the reality of judgment (John 16:5-11). We experience His work within us as He leads us into all truth to produce the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This helps us to live Spirit-filled, crucified lives. He also empowers, guides, and directs us to become the witnesses of The Lord.
The Power Of the Holy Spirit in Ministry
The Holy Spirit comes upon us or baptizes us to make us powerful tools for His ministry. He demonstrates His different gifts through us for the common good and deliverance of the people to whom we witness (1 Corinthians 12:7-11). The Spirit gives the needed gifts and boldness to us to exercise these gifts. He performs these miracles and wonders in order to establish the word of God and bring glory to God. Satan always brings fear and doubt whenever we step ahead to preach the Gospel. The only way to have victory over such fears is to be filled/empowered by the Holy Spirit and to walk by faith.
The commitment to being a witness (Acts 1:8)
The word ‘witness’ also has a root meaning of becoming a ‘martyr,’ willing to die for the message we preach. Becoming a witness of the Lord Jesus is a bold step and, most of the time, a very expensive one. Knowing this, Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to be with us forever. Starting with Stephen in the Book of Acts, Christian history is full of people who have died for the message they preached.
Prayer: Lord, I know that you have commissioned me as your witness to the places I go. Fill me with the power of the Holy Spirit so that I will be bold in sharing my testimony of walking with you to the people around me. Fill me with the Spirit of boldness. Help me to lead many from hell to heaven.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
“If you want to do ministry, you cannot do other work! If you want to preach or evangelize, you must only do that! Not business too.”
Over and over, Saji heard this message from his pastor who, like many church leaders in India, believed that business and ministry don’t mix. You can’t do both the “sacred” and the “secular”.
But Saji struggled with this.
He was in his late 20s and had trained as an engineer.
God had given him a heart to share the Gospel with least-reached people. His family didn’t have money; his father was only a day laborer and they lived in poverty. His education had given him better job opportunities but the call to ministry left him feeling conflicted.
Saji Finds A Way To Make It Work
“One of my pastors said if I wanted to do ministry, I must leave everything else,” Saji said. So he resigned to minister through his church, but he had no means of support. He told his family nothing about his struggles because he feared his choice would offend them. “I didn’t have a single rupee for my personal use,” he said. “I relied on my friends to feed me and shelter me.”
One day, he was invited to a home group. There he met a young man who invited Saji to a small business training started with the help of Global Disciples.
“The very next month, I attended the small business training,” Saji reported. “It made me strong and gave me the courage to move forward. I learned many things about work and ministry, about Paul’s ministry and Peter’s ministry. I decided I could do any work at the same time as God’s work!”
Life, Work & Business Can Work Together
Saji quickly caught on that you can do both ministry and business! Life, ministry, and work or business can be integrated for the glory of God and to reach others with the Good News.
Saji started a cell phone servicing business and used it to begin sharing the Gospel in a community where most people had little understanding of Jesus Christ. Within a year, God gave him success in both ministry and business.
“We now have 25 people worshipping every Sunday and an outreach to children. We have started three cell groups in this village. And we recently built a small worship center.”
Saji was able to marry since he now had a means of support. His relationship with his family was restored; they are happy to see how God led and provided for him. Saji said, “I am very happy with my work and ministry. I thank God for sending Global Disciples because they trained me and encouraged me.”
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian missions organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Operating a small business as a church planter has economic advantages but also gives the church planter credibility within a community.
We do it all the time. We meet someone new and within a short time, we ask, “What do you do?”
Some of us enjoy using that question to launch a conversation about what we value most. But eventually, we get around to our job. Whether we like it or not, we tend to link our vocation and our identity.
This tendency presents a problem for disciple-makers and church planters who go into villages, towns, or neighborhoods that are least-reached and may be quite resistant to the Gospel.
How do they explain what they do to their new neighbors and the people they meet and interact with?
The Advantage Of Small Businesses
They need an identity that makes sense to those who do not yet know Jesus. A small business can provide that, and Global Disciples provides training to churches to equip their near-culture workers to start a small business.
The economic advantage of a small business is obvious for a church planter. They can generate some income, especially when their sending cluster of churches is poor. But a vocational identity that’s understood by the community—a tailor, a shopkeeper, a farmer—is significant in building trusting relationships.
Global Disciples, Small Business & Vocation
A Guiding Principle of Global Disciples states: “We value the Apostle Paul’s approach to mission as fitting for our time.” Paul made tents as he traveled to preach and plant churches.
As churches in slower economies around the world send out more and more near-culture workers, this principle frees them from the restraint of finances, so they can reach least-reached people.
“Co-vocational” churches
Interestingly, these ‘co-vocational’ church planters tend to do better at multiplying new fellowships of believers because it’s easier to connect with people, and the model doesn’t demand as much financially as planting a church with a full-time church planter.
Like so many things revealed in Scripture, it’s hard to improve on what the Apostle Paul modeled. He was planting dynamic new expressions of the Body of Christ in places where people had not yet heard the Good News of Jesus. And so are we—as partners with you and with many churches near those who are least-reached.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Do you trust God in His Words?
Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.”
For Kam and for a group of disciple-makers in Myanmar, following that directive has led to open doors, new churches, and transformed lives.
Kam leads a discipleship-mission training program, launched through Global Disciples with your help.
Kam Is Trusting God’s Hand
He explained how they saw the Holy Spirit do His transforming work. “Even though we went empty-handed, God helped us according to His Word. His guiding hand is sufficient for us—He inspired us through His Word. In fact, the Holy Spirit transformed the lives of many people.”
Kam’s teams went out to villages and communities among the hill people, mostly farmers. They went house to house, and talked face to face, praying for the sick and lending a hand to orphans and widows. Many were miraculously healed. And broken families were restored.
Kam described one family as “totally broken.” He said, “We prayed for them; and we helped them ask forgiveness of each other for their faults against one another. They have renewed their relationships and now live in a sweet Christian home.”
Another husband and wife both gave their lives to Christ through this outreach, along with many more who put their faith in Jesus. “It’s not our work,” Kam said, “it is God’s work in the midst of us.”
By The Power Of The Holy Spirit
The few Christians in this region have no pastors or elders to guide them. The occasional evangelist comes to preach the Gospel but as Kam put it “no one has been taking care of their spiritual life.”
He said, “By the power of the Holy Spirit, God transformed the lives of men and women who’d been born again but were not pursuing a life in Christ.” The disciple-makers were able to share the Word of God more deeply with them, to help nurture spiritual growth.
The disciple-makers even reached out to several local Buddhist monks. “They were interested in the Word of God,” Kam said. “So, we gave them the Holy Bible, and had good fellowship and meals with them.”
Global Disciples And Trusting God’s Hand
For the local church, and those Kam continues to train, the mission continues. Recently they trained and sent out ten church planters to another unreached people group.
“The Holy Spirit moved in their hearts, and they were willing to obey the Word of God, to make disciples, and to plant churches in their communities,” he said. “I hope this will really be fruitful for His glory. Blessed be the name of the Lord!”
Help Train More People like Kam.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Christian evangelism should be the lifestyle of every disciple of Jesus. Compassion toward all human beings is part of our calling.
It enables us to see the lost through the eyes of Jesus to lead them to Him.
Evangelism is preaching the Gospel and taking care of new believers to lead them into maturity.
We can better understand Evangelism and Compassion and how it relates to the Church and our lives by exploring the following;
Imagine you are very busy selling cold drinks on the beach where several thousands of tourists are enjoying their vacation. You just heard through the radio that there is going to be a tsunami in the area in one hour’s time. The government is asking the people on the beach to hurry to the nearby mountain. You know in a few minutes’ time the waves of the sea will rise up high and wash away everyone and destroy everything.
What will you do and how will you communicate the message to the people on the beach?
Evangelism And Compassion
Preaching the Gospel is one of the most joyful privileges—to communicate the urgent news that there is a way for humanity’s salvation from eternal destruction is a huge calling.
It is also a very important responsibility because, if we do not communicate this news on time, it will lead those who have not heard to eternal death.
The Gospel is the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ.
This news is for everyone irrespective of race, caste, sex, creed, nationality, or color. It is through sharing the Good News with someone who has never heard it that that person can receive the love of God.
Someone correctly said once that evangelism is like one beggar telling the other where he found bread.
The Story of Paul Rader
Some years ago, evangelist Paul Rader persistently was urging a banker in New York to receive Christ, but the man never responded. One day, Rader sensed that God wanted him to go immediately and speak to this man again.
Obediently, he took a train and went with all speed to the town where the man lived. He hurried to the bank and found his friend standing in the doorway. “Rader,” the friend said, “I’m glad to see you! I wrote a letter begging you to come but later changed my mind and didn’t send it.” “That’s all right,” said the evangelist, “your message came through by way of heaven.”
Under deep conviction of sin, the banker was impressed by Rader’s earnestness and his special effort to reach him with the Gospel; that same hour, he received Christ. Suddenly, the banker gave a strange gasp and fell into the evangelist’s arms—DEAD! He had been saved on the very brink of eternity.
Evangelism And A Spiritual Journey
Seeing as God sees and responding as Jesus would requires growth in our spiritual journey.
We can do nothing apart from Jesus Christ. He promised to be with us when we go out to preach the Gospel and make disciples. He also promised to send us the Holy Spirit to empower us to make us effective witnesses for Him.
What is your experience of preaching the Gospel and making disciples?Does something need to change?
What are some of your strengths for which to thank God and which to use in serving others?
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
When The Holy Spirit moves He changes us! Discover how a struggling church leader in Uganda, became a disciple-making disciple.
“Before I came to the Global Disciples Directors training, my personal relationship with God was not all that healthy,” Achi said, describing his spiritual state a few years ago.
“I was filled with questions about God and about myself. I was like a hunter, wondering where to go next after a lot of struggles.”
Achi, a church leader in Uganda, was struggling.
He said, “My life was full of emotions from family issues, frustrations, and the torture of trusting in myself. I rarely prayed, and when I did, I was not focused…I only prayed because everyone else was praying,”
As Achi attended the Global Disciples Directors Training, it struck a chord in his searching heart. “God changed my whole life to become a testimony for others to come and see,” he said.
When The Holy Spirit Moves He Empowers People
The Directors Training equips believers like Achi in the core components of being a disciple of Jesus, so they can train others to be a disciple-making disciples. The Holy Spirit often works in these sessions to touch the directors first, empowering them to train from experience as well as study.
Achi found his life remade by the Holy Spirit. The session on Intimacy with God provided the foundation. He said, “My relationship with God has improved to be a beautiful thing. I have a reason to seek God and to hunger for more. He has made me a missionary and has become my purpose in life.”
Lessons on Holy Spirit Empowerment and Developing Christ-like Relationships also impacted Achi’s family relationships and his commitment to the mission of the Gospel. He relates, “God has given me the ability to stay in harder places, far from home, and to be comfortable there on mission.”
When The Holy Spirit Moves He Changes People
It’s meant a radical change for his family. Last year God directed them to move to a new community for further outreach. His children changed schools, and his family is adapting to a new culture and language, but Achi says, “We are happy to see God directing our lives each day.”
Achi’s renewed relationship with the Lord is bearing fruit in those he has trained as disciple-makers—they’ve already planted six churches! Phineas, one young trainee, is a great help, actively involved in outreach, and has assisted in planting another four churches.
Achi reports another transformation as he shares the core components with local churches. “We are seeing unity in the churches in our area. The teachings on Intimacy with God, Holy Spirit empowerment, and Christ-like Relationships have helped us to resolve conflict in the church and in the community since they call for peace and reconciliation between man and God.”
Change in one heart is spilling into the lives of others and in churches and the community. No wonder Achi rejoices, “I want to thank God for calling me to serve through teaching others His Word. And we will use these components to build and restore God’s people back to God.”
The Holy Spirit And Global Disciples Canada
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
What do we mean by the Kingdom of God, and how does it relate to the Church?
What is our identity, our place, and our part in the Church?
We can understand what the Kingdom of God is and how it relates to the Church by exploring the following;
- The Kingdom of God and our Citizenship
- Our Identity in Christ
- Fellowship and Accountability
- Functions within the Church
There are various functions/ministries within the Church just as the parts of the body have different functions. All of these parts are necessary to fulfill the three-fold ministry of the Church.
Ministry toward God—Worship (Romans 12:1; Psalm 29:2; Psalm 96:9; John 4:24)
We worship the Lord by offering our bodies as living, holy, and acceptable sacrifices to God. We worship the Lord in the beauty of his holiness. And we worship him in truth and spirit.
Ministry toward each other—Fellowship (Acts 2:44-46; Acts 4:32-35; John 13:34-35)
The Church is called to have close fellowship with each other—loving each other with a sincere heart and taking care of each other’s needs. Love is the main factor that binds the whole body together.
Ministry toward the world—Serving the world (Mark 16:15-16; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8)
Jesus sent His disciples to go out and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God to each and every person on the face of the earth. He empowered them through His Word, Holy Spirit, and His ever-abiding promise. Each member of the Church is a witness to God’s redeeming power in his or her life. Our testimonies can impact lost souls and bring them to accept the Kingdom of God.
A healthy church is one in which every member is functioning properly. Only a body where each part fulfills its function will stand healthy and strong. If every member functions properly, then the local church will have inspiring worship, loving relationships, and servant hearts for the world.
As Paul says in Ephesians 4:16, there are three functions each member of the Church has to accomplish. “From Him, the whole body joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work” (Ephesians 4:16).
Growing
Firstly, each member must grow. Each one of us is personally and directly connected to the Head, Jesus (John 15:4-6). We must grow in spiritual maturity in order to bear fruit. God has called each one of us to grow and not to remain spiritual babies (Hebrews 5:11-14).
Building up
Secondly, each member must build others. This has been one of the missing elements in many churches. We do not take deliberate, personal responsibility for building others up. Usually, we delegate that responsibility to some professionals called “full-time ministers.” But biblically, we all have the responsibility to build others up through encouragement and support. Parents are responsible for building their children (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Deuteronomy 11:18-21); existing disciples are responsible for building the new disciples (Matthew 28:19-20); the older women/men are responsible for building the younger ones (Titus 2:3-5; 2 Timothy 2:2).
Serving
Thirdly, each member must serve. Every member of the Church is a minister. We all have a calling from God along with the corresponding, necessary gifting as we continue to disciple in the way of Jesus and help each member to understand their gifting, the body functions in a healthy way to fulfill the mission of the Lord.
The purpose of different ministries/gifts within the body of Christ
The word of God says “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13).
There are many members in the body of Christ, and all of these members form one body. God has made each member differently with a different gift that functions appropriately to allow each to fulfill whatever task God has given him/her. As we have many members in our physical body and none of the members have the same function, so we, the community of disciples, are one body in Christ with different gifts for ministry (Romans 12:4-5).
One Body Many Functions
The Body of Christ, the Church, is one unified whole made up of different parts (1 Corinthians 12:12-28). Each member is vital for the Body’s growth and maturity. As many members in the Body of Christ, we each need to function for the growth, building up, and maturity of the Body of Christ. I am a single member; hence I am not the whole, not even the half, but only a small part of Christ’s Body. We must realize the relationship which exists between each member when we exercise our gifts. A member cannot be a substitute for the entire Body, yet it can affect the whole Body (1 Corinthians 12:12-31).
In the human body for example, the eyes can see, the ears can hear, and the nose can smell. They all have their own functions, and each has its own portion. The same is true with the members of the Body of Christ. Not every member can see or hear or smell; but each member has its own specific function. To serve the Body of Christ means to supply the Body with the life which a member receives from the Head. When the eyes of a seeing member sees, the entire body is able to see; that member of the Body of Christ who has insight into spiritual things becomes the eyes of the body.
One Body Many Parts
In the physical realm, when my hand works, it is not my hand but my body which works; when my feet walk, it is not my feet but my body which walks. A physical member never does anything merely for its own benefit—whatever it does is for the sake of the body. The same is true in the spiritual Body.
Life needs a channel in which to flow. God is seeking for people in whom He can deposit an abundant portion of the life of Christ so that they may supply it to others (John 10:10). He wants us to be that channel of life, and He has given us our portion of talent, our specific channel, on which to focus our energies; some of these include administration, servant-heart, giving, hospitality, encouragement, music. Whatever the channel, God wants all of the parts of the Body to complement each other as they each carry out the duties to which they are assigned.
What Does A Healthy Church Look Like?
A healthy church is one in which every member grows, serves, and builds others. All of these qualities must come from the indwelling life of Christ in each believer (John 15:4-5). This is a profound paradigm shift from a program mentality to a people mentality. However, if we can create a church culture in which every believer takes responsibility to grow, serve, and build, the Church will easily transform the community in which we live.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
In northern Tanzania’s remote bush, the Hadzabi people, hold to their traditional ways as hunters and gatherers.
In fact, they live in movable camps, seeking water and food from game or other natural sources. The Hadzabi consider the food of the land as God’s gift to them. They are one of Tanzania’s least-reached people groups. And their traditional beliefs include a Creator God, one they know by name. However, they also know he has a son.
Now, for the first time, the Hadzabi are hearing that Jesus is the name of the Son.
Pastor Leo, a local church planter, is reaching out to the Hadzabi in the name of Jesus. He’s introducing them to the Son of the Creator God and sharing the Good News.
Leo was trained through a Global Disciples partner program. And, his goal is to reach several least-reached people groups in their region. He is among the first to complete the training and Leo’s already deep into the ministry he prepared for.
However, in just a few months, his small church has added two Hadzabi believers.
The Hadzabi People Are Not Forgotten
These Hadzabi believers are introducing him to the rest of their small community, building relationships, and sharing the Gospel.
Further west, another training program affiliated with Global Disciples also completed its first training. The program director, Pastor Umbu, believes that to reach the least- reached, he needs to be where they are! So, he strategically set up the training close to a people group considered least-reached.
Pastor Umbu trains people to focus on sharing the Gospel with these mountain people. Up until now, they have had a minimal Christian presence.
Global Disciples Share In The Joy Of The Hadzabi
When one of our Global staff visited these leaders in their training and met the new Hadzabi believers in their camp, she said, “It was so meaningful because I saw our mission to the least- reached is being fulfilled!”
And it is. People like Pastor Leo and Pastor Umbu have embraced the vision to see every person have an opportunity to choose and follow Jesus. They know that includes the Hadzabi and other groups in their region, and they’re doing all they can to equip believers and fulfill the assignment to reach the least-reached.
As Global Disciples, we share their joy to see the Hadzabi and other unreached people groups in northern Tanzania come to know God’s Son Jesus as their Savior.
What Is Global Disciples?
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Danbir knows about facing hurdles and obstacles, he leads a discipleship-mission training in Nepal.
He and the disciple-makers he trained ran into a significant need when they went to share the Gospel in a village—and discovered there was no water! No water for anyone in the community to drink, to wash, to water fields. And his team did not carry any water with them.
God is always at work, but He doesn’t guarantee that our part in His work will run smoothly and that everybody gets along.
Difficulties show up when, like Danbir, we face needs we can’t meet, experience opposition to our mission, or when we’re in conflict with those around us. But as whole-hearted disciples, we learn to trust God to work despite these hurdles. As a result, we can see a powerful testimony and rich spiritual fruit in our lives.
Danbir Overcomes A Hurdle.
When Danbir was faced with this need for water, he recognized he had to trust God. As a whole-hearted disciple of Jesus, he gathered his team to fast and pray. When the Lord miraculously provided water for the village, it became a powerful testimony. Danbir reported, “There are now 20 new believers preparing for baptism!”
The hurdles we face can also stem from our own human nature as we relate to and serve one another. Rushil, another Nepali director, shared that during his initial training, conflict developed between students from two different ethnic groups. Longstanding prejudices and cultural traits fueled the tensions and interfered with learning to be a whole-hearted disciple of Jesus.
Overcoming Hurdles in Mission Through Relationship
Then a local pastor taught on the session on Right Relationships. Rushil said, “Through that, the lives of the participants were touched by the Lord. They confessed their guilt and sought reconciliation among themselves. In that way, the Lord brought transformation to their lives.” They were knit together in the Spirit and experienced His power as they went on to share the Good News among least-reached people!
As we serve the Lord and share the Gospel, we won’t experience smooth sailing. But God is faithful to His promises and His people, and able to move the mountains of difficulty to fulfill His mission through each of us.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!