Questioner
I understand we are to spread the gospel and make disciples. But how much of that is the "church" supposed to do and how much of that should be left to the people of God's church to do?
Answer
The "church" (Leaders: Pastor, elders, etc.) are to equip the saints to live
holy and godly lives in our society, and as they do that they (the people) will
win people to Christ. Then the church member is to bring the new Christian to
the church to be baptized and to be equipped to win others to Christ. A very
simple and effective concept.
The church is not to be the place where the "saving" gets done (although some may), but it is the training ground and place of encouragement for the saints to go out and win the lost. The church is NOT for the unsaved, but for the saved. We should not be trying to get the unbelievers to come to our churches (for what if they come and never get saved?), but rather to get the believers to come, get equipped and then go out and witness and win souls.
Questioner
Should the "church" have programs to accomplish this or should it be left to us as believers to do this in our day to day lives? What is the responsibility of the church leadership in all of this?
Answer
Programs are not really necessary, just strong, bold, and loving sermons and
teachings, from the leaders, about Christ and holiness. No "seeker-friendly"
churches with all the concerts, plays, carnivals, etc., to attract the lost, but
pure, holy men preaching the Word without compromise! Again, the church
members, when they simply live their Christ-filled and Christ motivated lives in
the world will naturally attract people to Christ, for they will be a light that
cannot be hidden.
Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "Tony Capoccia's Questions and Answers" by:
Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
Box 119
Columbus, New Jersey, USA, 08022
Our websites: www.biblebb.com and www.gospelgems.com
Email: tony@biblebb.com
Online since 1986