“Stir You Up By Way of Reminder…” posted by jwatson on Oct 20, 2014

Important matters require repetition.  Reminders are not only helpful; they are absolutely essential.  It is interesting that Peter wrote an entire Bible book on this premise.

“Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. I consider it right, as long as I am in this earthly dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder…” (2 Peter 1:12-13, emphasis added).

Based upon Peter’s example…and the fact that this is the Evangelism Explosion website …I am reminding you of a couple of vitally important truths about this ministry.

First, in the fifty-two years of EE’s existence, the mission of this ministry has remained steadfast.  It has not wavered and it will not waver.  Our mission is clearly articulated in Evangelism Explosion’s Purpose Statement…

TO GLORIFY GOD BY EQUIPPING BELIEVERS TO MULTIPLY

IN AND THROUGH LOCAL CHURCHES WORLDWIDE

 …and EE’s Vision Statement…

 EVERY NATION EQUIPPING EVERY PEOPLE GROUP

AND EVERY AGE GROUP TO WITNESS TO EVERY PERSON.

Evangelism Explosion is a gospel equipping ministry and a gospel proclaiming ministry from first to last, from top to bottom, from inside to outside.  And we are committed to accomplish this in and through the local church.

Second, the Gospel presentation that people learn in the EE ministry has not changed.  And, of course, it better not change, for the Gospel is the Biblical presentation of the truth regarding how a person who is dead in trespass and sin can be made alive in Christ.  As Paul declares, the Gospel is the power of salvation to all who believe.

We use two diagnostic questions to help people understand where they are spiritually.

• Question #1 – Do you know for sure that you are going to be with God in Heaven?
• Question #2 – If God were to ask you, “Why should I let you into my Heaven?” what would you say?

We use “Five Points of the Gospel” to provide a Biblically comprehensive understanding as to why Jesus, and His work on the cross, are important to any and every person.

• Grace – Heaven is a free gift.  It is not earned or deserved.
• Man – Is a sinner.  He cannot save himself.
• God – Is merciful, therefore He does not what to punish us.  Is just, therefore, He must punish sin.
• Christ – Who He is – He is both God and Man.  What He did – He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins and rose from the grave to purchase a place  for us in Heaven.
• Faith – Saving faith is not mere head knowledge or temporal faith.  Saving faith is trusting in Jesus Christ alone for eternal life.

Each of the above Gospel points are undergirded with Scripture and explained further with the use of illustrations.  Once the Gospel presentation is completed, we simply ask, “Would you like to receive the gift of eternal life right now?”  If the response is positive, we are prepared to assist people in expressing their faith and trust through the avenue of prayer.

Are you a follower of Christ?  Have you responded to the Gospel? Are you experiencing the joys of salvation?  If so, the Lord has a commission for you:  Become an active and vocal “gossiper of the Gospel.”  Nothing is more fulfilling!  To learn how you can receive training in this important assignment, click here.  Or to download our Gospel tract with the outline I shared, click here.

EE was, is and will always be Gospel-centered.  Our lives are to be Gospel-centered.  Nothing is more glorious or more fulfilling or more permanent.  After all, each and every person who trusts in Christ alone for salvation will live in God’s presence in Heaven permanently, eternally, forever…and forever is a very long time!