Thought for the Week – 17th July 2016 – Dennis Pethers

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  Hebrews 10:24,25

I remember, a couple of years ago, hearing a speaker at a large church in the United States making a huge statement.  He said that the church is unlikely to be successful in reaching people beyond the walls that we have built because:

‘Christians worship together but when they are on the frontline they are isolated and unsupported – ‘nobody has their back’ so they just try to survive not make an impact’.

I believe that he hit the nail on the head and that his words are too important for us to ignore.

After I heard this statement I began to introduce some very simple ideas to the churches and Christians that I visit and meet with.  Here are just a couple that may be helpful to you.

–       When the church gathers together on Sunday or in small groups, make time regularly, for people to share the stories of how they are seeking to tell people about Jesus.  This is encouraging to others and will mean that those who are attempting to reach others can be prayed for!

–       Each Christian should identify at least one other Christian in the church and become their ‘I’ve got your back’ person.  A simple way this can be expressed was shared with me by a lady who said to me:

‘Dennis, I did what you suggested and now a lady from the church and I are helping each other. We use texting most of the time. When I know that she will be talking to somebody about Jesus I always text her and let her know I will be praying for her. Later, she always calls me and tells me how it went. She does the same for me and it has changed everything!’

As long as we feel isolated on the frontline most Christians will never share their faith.  It is time this changed, please be part of the change!