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

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

A 2021 LifeWay research study found 71% of people are open to hearing someone's life story when meeting them for the first time
In the UK, 75% of non-Christians who had conversations with Christian friends about Jesus felt comfortable, and 33% wanted to know more
Only 55% of non-Christians who knew a Christian said that person had ever talked about their faith

The Farming Model of Evangelism (Six Steps)

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
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
Planting the Seed
- Sharing the Word of God, specifically about Jesus and the gospel
- Creating the right environment for growth
Cultivating
- Giving time for the message to grow and mature
- Not rushing to "close the deal" prematurely
- Creating the best circumstances for spiritual growth
Harvesting
- Picking the fruit when it's ripe
- Recognizing when someone is ready to make a decision
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

Churches need a clear process and strategy
Leveraging different spiritual gifts within the church body
Providing clear pathways for members to connect non-believers
Working as a team to reach the community

Resources Mentioned

Book: "The Soul Winning Church" by J.A. Metters
Previous Episode: #17 on the principles of evangelism

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.

Show Notes

Other Episodes

Episode 32

Ep. 032 | Building Volunteer Teams That Stick

Episode 33

Ep. 033 | How Pastors Can Overcome Discouragement in Church Revitalization

Episode 39

Ep. 039 | Part 1 - 6 Keys to Managing Conflict in a Church Revitalization