Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mk. 16:15).
Paul responded, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…” (Rom. 1:16).
Nothing on earth is as fulfilling as leading a lost soul to Christ. However, some Christians believe that the pursuit of souls is restricted to preachers, elders or trained personal workers. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, it is estimated that preachers are personally responsible for less than 15% of all baptisms in the United States.
So, what can virtually any Christian do to help lead lost souls to Jesus Christ?
1. Pray for at least one lost person by name daily. Even Paul prayed regularly for his lost Jewish countrymen – Rom. 10:1.
2. Pray for God to lead you to a lost soul, or vice versa. God has answered such prayers by leading many Christians in the direction of searching souls. (See Acts 10:1ff & 16:9ff.)
3. Contact a church member that no longer attends services. Such persistent contacts have helped to turn thousands of wayward souls around. James wrote, "…he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death…." Jam. 5:19-20.
4. Keep inviting people to church services or activities. This is the “come & see” approach - Jn. 1:46. It is estimated that 30% of those that visit our services do so following the fifth invitation to attend.
5. Speak to every visitor. Surveys indicate that the chief factor that determines whether visitors return is the initial reception they receive. Visitors that immediately feel "at home" are much more likely to return.
6. Give a little more. Sadly, many soul-winning tools such as direct mail, radio, TV, the internet, billboards and newspapers are severely restricted due to lack of funds. Some churches spend 2-3 times as much on heating and air conditioning than on winning souls.
Won’t you take part in the greatest endeavor of all? Start by picking a soul and praying for them daily. "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise" Prov. 11:30.
Live For the Lord in 2024!
Dennis