Ep. 019 | Outreach and Evangelism | The Farming Model of Evangelism

Episode 19 • April 01, 2025 • 00:32:07
Ep. 019 | Outreach and Evangelism | The Farming Model of Evangelism
Revitalize My Church
Ep. 019 | Outreach and Evangelism | The Farming Model of Evangelism

Apr 01 2025 | 00:32:07

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Hosted By

Nathan Bryant, MDiv. Bart Blair

Show Notes

 

Episode Summary
In this episode, Bart and Nathan discuss the "Farming Model" of evangelism, building on principles shared in Episode 17. They explore a strategic approach to both individual and corporate evangelism based on the parable of the seed from Matthew 13.
 
Hosts:
  • Bart Blair
  • Nathan Bryant (Executive Director of Assist Church Expansion)

 

Key Points


The Need for Evangelism

The Farming Model of Evangelism (Six Steps)
  1. Choosing the Field
    • Identifying who God is calling you to reach
    • Focus on relationships where ongoing connection is possible
    • Consider both individual relationships and corporate community focus
  2. Preparing the Soil (90% of the work)
    • Removing obstacles to faith through building relationships
    • Addressing sociological barriers rather than just theological ones
    • Creating connections between non-believers and multiple Christians
    • Building spiritual momentum through relational momentum
    • Listening more and talking less
  3. Planting the Seed
    • Sharing the Word of God, specifically about Jesus and the gospel
    • Creating the right environment for growth
  4. Cultivating
    • Giving time for the message to grow and mature
    • Not rushing to "close the deal" prematurely
    • Creating the best circumstances for spiritual growth
  5. Harvesting
    • Picking the fruit when it's ripe
    • Recognizing when someone is ready to make a decision
  6. Creating a "Greenhouse" Environment
    • Evangelistic Bible study approach (5-7 weeks)
    • Elements needed: Word of God, prayer, connection to believers, gifted teachers
    • Research shows significantly higher retention rates with this approach
Corporate Evangelism Strategy
Resources Mentioned
The Revitalize My Church Podcast releases two episodes each month with the goal of helping churches navigate change and reorient to a new and healthy future.
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