Modes of Evangelism

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Choose three words which express how you feel about evangelism. What do those words mean to you?

Cultivate

Summary: The "modes of evangelism" is a practical way to think about the different kinds of evangelism in which your ministry can engage. When all three modes are at work, it’s an effective way to reach those around you.

An Introduction to the Three Modes

Watch CruPress Presents: Modes of Evangelism to get a basic introduction.

Discuss:

• What are your initial thoughts about the three modes of evangelism?
• Is there anything enlightening or confusing about them?

Natural Mode Evangelism

Natural witness is communicating the gospel to those with whom you already have everyday relationships and interactions. A biblical example of this is the Samaritan woman telling others in her community about what Jesus had done (John 4:28-42).

Discuss:

• How can we help believers have an increased awareness of their relational networks?
• How can we encourage believers to make the most of their natural opportunities with others?
• What sort of training could help us do this better?

Body Mode Evangelism

Body witness can be the most confusing of the three. It happens as outsiders observe and experience a loving community of Christ-followers. Biblical examples of this are found throughout the book of Acts (Acts 8:5-8). People see God at work through his people, and this motivates them to come to faith.

Watch Two Movements to learn about two great examples of "body" witness.

Discuss:

• How can we increase the visibility or accessibility of our Christian community to unbelievers?
• How can we increase unity, love for one another and the fruit of God’s Spirit in our lives?
• What sort of training could help us do this better?

Ministry Mode Evangelism

Ministry witness is sharing the gospel with people you don’t know who are outside of your natural relationships. A biblical example of this is Paul’s intentionality to share the gospel in Athens (Acts 17:16-18).

Watch Perspective Week to hear others share their experience using an evangelism tool called Perspective Cards®.

Discuss:

• Who are the people outside of our relational networks? Consider freshman students (especially in the first six weeks of the fall semester), an ethnic minority group, the LGBTQ community, a fraternity, sorority or an athletic team.
• How can we effectively reach those who are not in our relational networks?
• What sort of training could help us do this better?

Wrap Up and Discuss:

• Which of these three modes do you find most difficult?
• Which of these three modes are easiest for you?
• What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of each mode?

Pray: In light of what we’ve discussed, how can we pray for each other right now?

Care

Since we last met, what happened as a result of expressing Christ’s love to others?

How can you, or we, express Christ’s love to others this week?

Here are a few ideas:

• Pray God would meet their deepest needs.
• Help meet a felt need they have.
• Encourage them with a text, note or verbally.
• Give them a thoughtful gift or buy them coffee.
• Invite them to do something fun or meaningful.
• Listen to their story.
• Explore their thoughts on the gospel.