1. Should We Keep Having Gospel Meetings?

2. We are living in a time when many congregations are rethinking gospel meetings Some say such efforts are no longer effective That may be so, but is it the gospel meeting or the attitude of the members? Today we will address the effectiveness of gospel meetings

3. The Challenge of Gospel Meetings In times past, such efforts would draw large crowds Today – religion no longer the focus it once was - people have less free time and more options for that time - The quality of preaching has improved - The availability of sermons

4. The Challenge of Gospel Meetings Considering such things Many have abandoned or reduced gospel meetings To do so, I believe, is a mistake! Perhaps we can modify certain things, but let us NOT be deceived into thinking there is no benefit to gospel meetings. Consider the following reasons:

5. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To increase our faith Romans 10:17, “So then faith comes by hearing,...” Acts 20:32, “the word of His grace, which is able to build you up…” In this effort, the gospel will be proclaimed. Your faith will NOT increase by avoiding brethren and studying together ( Acts 2:42 )

6. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To support the preaching of the gospel Romans 10:13-17, consider the context It is easier to preach when you have an audience! Answer honestly! Is preaching needed today? Do we need more or less? What are you doing about it? 2 Tim. 4:2-3, not a pseudo-gospel

7. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To reach the lost Romans 10:8-13, whoever calls on the name of the Lord ( cf. Acts 22:16 ) The gospel is the power of God unto salvation- Romans 1:16 Gospel meetings are an opportunity to evangelize – to those we influence Mark 16:15, Matt. 28:18-20 James 1:22 – are we doers?

8. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To testify to the world Romans 1:16, are we ashamed of the gospel? The world desperately needs to see us making God a priority in our lives. Does He come before sports, hobbies, other activities? What do our friends and family see as important? 1 Cor. 1:18, 2 Tim. 1:8 Ezek. 3:7-9, Heb. 11:7 – Noah, etc. Mark 8:38

9. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To preserve what we have We need to be strengthened! For church to be built up we need His word. Eph. 4:11-16, edification! (to build up) What do our friends and family see as important? 2 Tim. 4:2-4, cf. Phil. 3:1

10. Why Have a Gospel Meeting? To meet those we support A benefit here in Bellflower, where we support several preachers Phil. 4:14-17, support means we partake in their work! Knowing them can help us better encourage those works we are part of

11. What Can I Do for this Effort? Prepare Invite those you know – friends, neighbors, acquaintances, co- workers, family, etc. Pray for the success of this effort Arrange to participate as you can Prepare you attitude! Determine to get the most out of this effort.

12. What Can I Do for this Effort? Be here You will not benefit if you are not here!

13. What Can I Do for this Effort? Be enthusiastic Don’t dread this work ( cf. Mal. 1:7-14 ) In worship – give your best! Welcoming visitors Applying the lessons

14. What Can I Do for this Effort? Follow up If you have friends come, find out what more you can do Distribute the lessons Continue to apply what you have learned to make you a better disciple of Christ. Our theme - “Learning True Discipleship”

15. Gospel meetings are worthwhile, even today What will you do to make this effort successful?