MAIN POINT

It is not enough to tell someone. You also have to ask someone. (MATTHEW 28:18-20)

INTRODUCTION

Last week we answered the question: What is the gospel? What was most helpful as you identified the basic gospel message?

Answer the following questions in the quiz.

• Write down and share a one-minute version of the gospel in your own words?

DISCUSS

• Did anyone have an opportunity to share the gospel this past week? If so, what happened?

Over the past two weeks, we’ve looked at what the gospel is and why, when, where, and how to share the gospel. Today, we’ll wrap it all up as Greg and his wife, Cathe, discuss what to do after sharing the gospel.

UNDERSTANDING

Watch Session 6: Close the Deal by Greg Laurie at Lifeway Small Group or at Harvest Online Courses (27 minutes). Start at 9 min 51 sec.

DISCUSS

• How would you describe the way you felt about evangelism before this study, compared to the way you feel now?
• How have you been challenged or encouraged during this study? What has been most helpful?
• What is your biggest fear in sharing the gospel? If willing to share the gospel, why are we often afraid to ask for a decision?

Read MATTHEW 28:18-20.

DISCUSS

• Has your understanding of the Great Commission changed during this series? If so, describe how.

Jesus was very specific in the Great Commission. He said to make disciples, teaching them to live out everything He commanded and baptizing them. These are essential parts of the community of God’s people. Remember, in the Great Commission Jesus didn’t just give us this amazing assignment of eternal significance, He promised to be with us as we go. His Spirit equips, empowers, and enables our ability to share the gospel as well as other people’s responses to this good news. Evangelism isn’t as complicated as we make it, and neither is discipleship. Discipleship isn’t just a class; it’s learning through life together.

DISCUSS

• Who has been the greatest example to you of a Christian life?
• What in your life would change if you kept in mind the fact that people are looking to you as an example?
• Have you brought someone to church? What was your experience?
• How can you be helpful to your church instead of critical?

Remember, you may not be a Paul, but we can all be a Barnabas who comes alongside someone to encourage a new Christian.

APPLICATION

DISCUSS

• Name some ways you’ve asked someone to do something other than make a personal decision for faith in Jesus (i.e. come to church or small group, read a Christian book, attend a Christian event, listen to Christian music, etc.).
• What is your fear or concern with asking people to make a decision for Christ?
• How can you stay prepared to seize the moment and share the gospel?
• What is your primary takeaway from this series?
• What steps is God calling you to take to move toward a deeper practice of evangelism as a result of this new insight?