In what ways can we encourage others to "turn to the Lord" in our community? Our Key Verse: Acts 11:21 “The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord.” What Turning to the Lord Means • A decisive, Spirit-enabled change of heart, mind, and direction (Isaiah 55:6-7; Acts 3:19). • Forsaking sin and idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9) to worship, obey, and serve the living God (Deuteronomy 10:20-21). • Entering a restored relationship with the Father through faith in Christ (John 14:6; Romans 5:1). Cultivating Personal Credibility • Live an unmistakably transformed life (2 Corinthians 5:17); visible fruit authenticates the message. • Practice consistent integrity at home, work, and church (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12). • Share specific testimonies of God’s faithfulness—people connect with real stories (Psalm 66:16). Proclaiming the Gospel Clearly • Present the simple, saving message: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Use plain words, avoiding church jargon that confuses seekers (Colossians 4:3-4). • Invite personal response—repentance and faith—just as Peter did (Acts 2:38-41). Creating Welcoming Spaces • Host small-group studies in homes, cafés, or parks where questions are safe. • Provide clear pathways from visitor to family member: greeters, follow-up calls, newcomer meals. • Celebrate baptisms and testimonies publicly—each story stirs fresh interest (Acts 8:12). Serving Tangible Needs • Offer practical help: meals, rides, financial coaching, tutoring (James 2:15-17). • Partner with local shelters, schools, and crisis centers; let the community experience Christ’s love in action (Matthew 25:35-36). • Combine service with spoken hope, explaining the motive behind the mercy (1 Peter 3:15). Interceding Earnestly • Pray for open hearts, bold words, and divine appointments (Colossians 4:2-6). • Form prayer walks—quietly blessing neighborhoods street by street (Joshua 6:1-5 principle). • Keep a visible “harvest list”; celebrate answered prayers so faith multiplies (John 4:35-38). Walking in Genuine Relationships • Pair new believers with mature mentors for weekly encouragement (2 Timothy 2:2). • Foster multi-generational fellowship—young and old sharpening one another (Titus 2:2-8). • Address sin lovingly but truthfully, guiding toward restoration (Galatians 6:1-2). Engaging Culture Wisely • Use music, art, sports, and social media to bridge interest to truth (Acts 17:22-23). • Share solid answers for today’s moral questions, rooted firmly in Scripture’s authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Stand courageously yet graciously; conviction and kindness together draw respect (Ephesians 4:15). Persevering in Hope • Remember that only the Spirit ultimately turns hearts (John 16:8), yet He delights to use faithful witnesses. • Expect resistance but also divine breakthroughs; remain steadfast (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Rejoice over every soul that turns—heaven does (Luke 15:7). |
    |