Making Evangelism Personal – Compassion

Posted by Chris Gallagher on Apr 14, 2010 in Uncategorized | 0 comments

Below is an outline I used as a discussion guide for an afternoon Bible Class. I am a firm believer that congregations can have all the evangelism programs they want, but if they lack compassion, they will never achieve their full potential.

Take a moment to see the outline and let me know what you think.

Making Evangelism Personal – Compassion

Define Compassion

• “To suffer with”
• “A human emotion prompted by the pain of others.” (Wikipedia)
• “More vigorous than empathy, the feeling commonly gives rise to an active desire to alleviate another’s suffering.” (Wikipedia)

Develop a Compassion for the Lost

• Text: Matthew 9.35-38
• Discussion Question #1: Where was Jesus when He had compassion?
• What did Jesus ask His disciples to do?
• He spoke openly regarding the situation.
• He asked others to pray.
• He sent out others.

How Do We Develop Compassion for the Lost?

• We must be with the people. (Matthew 9.35)
• See others through Heaven’s eyes. (Luke 15 – remember the father’s love)
• See the purpose of life. (Luke 19.10)
• Realize the fear. (Matthew 10.28)

See the Possibilities!

• Remember Moses?
• Remember Noah?
• Remember Paul?
• Acts 9.13 – the fear of Ananias
• Acts 9.21 – the Damascus disciples
• Acts 9.26 – the fear found in Jerusalem
• God used each of these men with a powerful purpose!

Just some thoughts for the day,

Chris