Lifestyle Evangelism is . . . the Word.

As Lutheran Christians, one of the things that sets us apart from other Christians is that we believe and understand that the usual way our Lord has of coming to us is through means. This word does not mean that He can not come directly, but His usual way of working with us is through means. More in particularly, we believe that the means He has of coming to us is the means of grace, which are the Word of God (the Bible) and the Sacraments (Holy Baptism and the Lord’s Supper). It is through these means that our Lord comes to us to give us His good gifts and blessings (faith, forgiveness, life and salvation).

With those definitions in mind, it is important that a big part of our lives and our lives of Lifestyle Evangelism include the Word. The Word is what is at the heart and center of our life. Not only do we know and understand the importance of the Word (reading our Bibles), but we demonstrate its importance through our actions. There might be a Bible always within sight. The Bible is the first book we consult for important matters and decisions. We may even read the entire Bible - chapter by chapter- during the year.

Certainly, the Word is a big part of our own lives, but it is also a great tool in our exercise of Lifestyle Evangelism. Because we understand that God works, not through people, but through His Word, we understand how important it is to help our unchurched family and friends hear that Word. Thus, we understand the importance of encouraging them in their own lives to read the Word (maybe even giving them a Bible if they do not have one) and of inviting them to come to worship and Bible class where they will have opportunity to hear the Word directly and to hear it explained and proved.

As our Lord comes into contact with our unchurch family and friends through His Word, the Holy Spirit will give faith through that Word. He will then continue to work through that Word to strengthen and keep them in faith. Thus, we see the importance and the power of the Word even the Word made flesh, Jesus Himself (as John witnesses to us).

20 of 52 © Rev. Ronald A. Bogs