One thing we’ve noticed in the pastors’ responses to our questions is that a couple of times there was a resounding chorus hitting the same note. Rather than treat that as something repetitive that could be compressed, we think that’s an area to pause and listen to the chorus hitting the same note.
This week, we share one of those notes. When asked about how the OPC as a denomination and as individual churches could continue to grow and improve in evangelism, at least 4 pastors (more than 1/3 interviewed) had the same inclination. Their suggestion was simply to do something. Let’s hear it from them:
Andrew Canavan in Corona, CA:
“The main thing is to get out there and do it! As our recently retired RHM, Dave Crum, has said (and this is a very loose paraphrase): we in the OPC can spend most of our time in the harbor perfecting a theologically-precise evangelistic boat while other churches are out in their perhaps leaky or garishly painted (but still seaworthy!) vessels bringing the lost aboard.”
Matthew Patton in Vandalia, OH:
“First, I think that we simply need to do something (anything!) in obedience to the savior, even if it feels awkward or we don’t immediately see fruit. Of course, many churches are striving to be faithful and are presently engaged in evangelism. But my sense is that a lot of OPC churches have functionally ceased to be engaged in it. It doesn’t need to be complicated: set up a table and pass out tracts at a county fair or a college campus. Go around the neighborhood with lawnmowers offering to mow for free, and seek opportunities to share Christ and invite people to church. Pass out water bottles at a local parade and ask people what they believe will happen when they die. Setup a table at a local arts festival and ask people how you can pray for them. (All of these I have done with considerable blessing.) But do something!”
These words may sound direct, but we assure you they are in the context of their whole interview that are balanced and show great love for the OPC. But this question and topic obviously hit a chord for several men.
We don’t want to raise a “problem” without providing “answers.” So, below are also numerous examples of things this collection of 12 men shared of ideas for evangelism. We will share several more next week.
Examples of “Doing Something”
Shane Lems in Hammond, WI