Key Thought : We can learn to be equipped for evangelism by direct instruction, observation, participation, and cooperation together with fellow church members.

[Teaching Plan for “Equipping for Evangelism and Witnessing” May 21, 2012]

1. Have a volunteer read Matthew 11:4-6.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What kind of reporting would you feel was important to share with others?
C. Personal Application: How can we go and show others what we have seen and heard when we are far removed from Jesus’ physical presence and miracles?
D. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “The only healers I hear about and see are on TV asking for my money in Christ’s name. I think they are fake and crooked. So where are Christ’s real people and miracles today?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read Luke 10:1-11.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. When do we give up on trying to reach a city, country, or a person with the gospel? When they first reject it? When they refuse to hear it? When they persecute you? Why did Jesus tell the 70 to turn away after the first try?
C. Personal Application: What are church members usual excuses for not witnessing for their faith?
D. Case Study: One of your friends states, “This kind of witnessing is like missionary work, where a person leaves home and lives in other areas for a long time and depends on others for food and shelter. Our social structure and Christian witness doesn’t follow this model anymore, and a lot of counsel doesn’t seem to apply to us today.” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Matthew 17:14-21.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. Is fasting something of the past, or do your church members fast and pray for special occasions? Share.
C. Personal Application: Have you ever tried to witness to a friend, neighbor, or coworker that didn’t turn out very good? What did you learn from that experience in regards to false witnessing? Share..
D. Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “So according to this Scripture, the reason many people aren’t healed or cured from many physical and mental problems is because the church members don’t have enough faith or connection with God.” How do you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read 2 Peter 3:9.

A. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
B. What are some ways that the devil uses to keep us from sharing the gospel with someone else? Does social status, personality differences, culture, race, or financial status have any influence on our efforts?
C. Personal Application: How urgent do you feel it is that you try to reach people for Jesus before the end comes? Are we waiting for Sunday laws before we start taking things seriously?
D. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Note: “Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.” MH p. 149)

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