Daily Archives: April 13, 2016

Reaching the Lost

One of the issues which often arises in discussions in business meetings and among faithful brethren in other settings is how we can effectively reach the lost? We fret because we seem unable to reach large numbers (or even small numbers) of people consistently with the truth, with enough impact for them to obey the gospel. While this author does not profess to have all the answers (or even some) to this important question, he would like to offer a few observations on the subject.

First, we must recognize that some of the greatest teachers in the world were unable to affect obedience in their audience. Noah preached impending doom for 120 years, but was able to save only his own family (II Pet. 2:5; I pet. 3:20; Gen. 6:3). The prophets were often regularly ignored and killed (Matt. 23:30,31). Jesus, the Master teacher (John 7:46), did not always get a positive response (John 6:66,67). In Athens, Paul encountered those who mocked him (Acts 17:32). If these had their troubles with reaching the lost, why do we suppose that we would be any different?

Second, we must recognize the limits of our responsibility. Our obligation is not to convert or save anyone, but to preach the gospel (Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15,16). We, ourselves, cannot save or convert anyone. It is the word which convicts and converts (e.g., Acts 2:36). It is God that gives the increase (I Cor. 3:6). If we go with the idea that we are to convert, then we will most likely be disappointed. Let us be content to limit our activity to that which the Lord commanded and He will be pleased with that.

Third, we seriously err if we think that we can substitute the gospel of Christ with worldly attractions to lure people into the church. We all know how to draw huge crowds: simply offer people what they want to hear instead of what the Lord says they need (II Tim. 4:3,4). Jesus condemned this type of attitude when He condemned those who followed Him only because of the loaves and fishes (John 6:26,27). Too many churches of Christ offer people things, things like various kinds of classes unrelated to Christ or His word, food, giveaways, fairs, etc., in exchange for their continued patronage of the local church. This is neither scriptural nor moral.

Furthermore, all this does is to cause people to think materialistically. It doesn’t pique their interest in spiritual things. Our affections should be set on things above, not on things on the earth (Col. 3:1-3). It is the gospel of Christ which has the power to draw people to Him (John 12:32). If you lure people in with material things and activities, then you will have to keep them there with material things and activities.

Fourth, there probably is no one reason why people refuse to come to the Lord. For some, it may be that they do not want to tacitly condemn their family by obeying something their family did not do. No one would purposely condemn their family to hell, which is what they may feel like they are doing when they, themselves, obey. For others it may be a love of the things of this world is too strong a pull on them (Matt. 13:7,22). Some may not understand the teaching of Christ or the importance of obedience to Christ. It may be these things and many things more or it may be many of these thing all rolled up into one bundle. Each case is unique.

Fifth, sadly, there are some people who are just unreachable. Some have hardened their heart so much that the light of the gospel will not shine in unto them (II Cor. 4:3,4; Eph. 4:17-19). Jesus said of Israel that “this people’s heart is waxed gross and their ears are dull of hearing” (Matt. 13:15). Jesus recognized this and said that we must cast the dust off our feet in such situations (Matt. 10:14).

Finally, the best way to reach people with the gospel is to get it out there where it can be believed. There is no possibility of the seed producing fruit if it is not sown. Seed kept stored in a bag will not grow. It grows only when it is sown in great quantities. The more we know of God’s word, and the more opportunities we take to teach others, the more likely we will reach people with the truth. There is no magic formula for positive results that does not include hard work.

Eric L. Padgett