Evangelism and Spiritual Warfare, Mentor's Guide, MG08

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E V A N G E L I S M A N D S P I R I T U A L W A R F A R E

This desirous affection and gentle care governed all that they did with the new fledgling assemblies of believers, and explains the unusual and heightened sense of oversight they provided each little group in the Jesus movement. The apostles demonstrate well for us that evangelism is not merely concerned with “closing the deal” but bringing the little ones who respond to maturity in Christ (Eph. 4.11-16). As you review this section, underscore the importance of the apostolic example in providing care for the newborn believers who respond positively to God’s offer for salvation in Christ. There is much we can learn from their unusually burdened sense of affection and care for new believers.

Again, the heart of these questions is to unearth the students' notions about the relationship between evangelism and follow-up, as well as to encourage them to take a fresh look at the intensity of the apostolic tradition in their efforts to secure and safeguard every single convert in Christ. The effort and energy of the apostles to wrestle with the obvious influences, persons, conditions, and situations that could undermine a new believer's faith should challenge us to have similar commitments and activities. This is crucial for the students to not only apprehend but to copy and emulate. Their comprehension of the significance of this simple practice for the fulfillment of the Great Commission in the city will go no further than their understanding of the facts underlying this practice. Make certain that the students properly relate the notion of evangelism to discipleship, that the one is not possible without the other, and that all forms of evangelism are to be linked to efforts at securing, safeguarding, and anchoring the new converts in a loving Christian community where they can be nurtured, protected, and pastored under godly Holy Spirit-called leadership. Evangelism and spiritual warfare are as aggressive about follow-up as they are about any other dimension of kingdom ministry. I would argue that those who desire to evangelize but are lukewarm about follow-up are actually undermining the Gospel’s ability to not only begin the journey for new believers but to finish it as well. 6 Page 111 Student Questions and Response