Evangelism and Spiritual Warfare, Mentor's Guide, MG08

/ 8 7

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

6. Make the Gospel appeal clear.

7. Be prepared for seekers and responders.

8. Keep careful records (for following up decisions and interest).

IV. Through Penetration of the Oikos

page 189 7

The Gospel was spread according to our New Testament narratives and accounts through people who shared the Gospel naturally in the context of the households that they lived in (cf. Mark 5.19; Luke 19.9; John 4.54; 1.14-15; etc.). Cornelius is a prime example of how the Gospel spread through the shared life and connection that families and friends had in the Roman oikos .

A household usually contained four generations, including men, married women, unmarried daughters, slaves of both sexes, person without citizenship, and “sojourners,” or resident foreign workers. ~ Hans Wolff. Anthology of the Old Testament.

A. The dimensions of the oikos (circle, web, networks)

3

1. Common kinship relationships (immediate, extended, and adopted family members)

2. Common acquaintances and friendships (friends, neighbors, those sharing common experiences, interests, loyalties)

3. Common associates (work and business relationships, special interests, recreation, ethnic or cultural affinities, national or political allegiances)

B. Why oikos evangelism is critical for urban ministry

1. It is biblical. Jesus and the apostles ministered in this way; the Gospel spread naturally through relational networks (historically fruitful approach).