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Getting Out Of Our Front Yard

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Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles

If a farmer sows most of his seed crop in his front yard, he can only expect a limited harvest. The same holds true with churches. Even when capable teachers are faithfully proclaiming the pure word of God, the “harvest” will necessarily be limited to those in attendance. While the need for pulpit and classroom teaching cannot be discounted, it is simply not enough. It is imperative to get out of our front yard (out of the church building) with the incorruptible seed that can save souls! (1 Peter 1:23 NKJV; Romans 1:16 NKJV).

We must “go” because most will not “come” on their own accord. In fact, there are relatively few non-Christians who are attending worship services and Bible classes. And those who do, attend seldom do so with any regularity and are not likely to hear lessons that are appropriate for their spiritual growth. Let’s face it, most folks who need the gospel are not coming to our front yard to get it. If they are to be reached, it will take more than the man who stands in the pulpit to get the job done.

Consequently, every faithful member of the Lord’s church should seek for opportunities to sow the seed of the kingdom (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV; Mark 16:15-16 NKJV). As the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15 NKJV), the church bears a serious and unique obligation to the gospel — not only to love it and live it, but to faithfully proclaim it as well. God looks to all faithful men and women to teach others (2 Timothy 2:1-2 NKJV; Acts 18:24-26 NKJV).

Relative to Bible study, the home setting is often the most favorable of teaching situations because the student is not lost in the crowd, and the lessons take on a more personal flavor. What other setting could a Bible student feel more “at home” and feel free to ask pertinent Bible questions without fear of embarrassment? In a home setting, an individual better relates to Bible study more readily; and he hears lessons most relevant to his spiritual needs. And with home Bible study, the prevalent problem of absenteeism is lessened. Many will keep an appointment with a teacher at home who will not do so at a church building. What better arrangement for teaching Bible truth!

Members of the church should become more involved in a house-to-house kind of teaching (Acts 5:42 NKJV; Acts 20:20-21 NKJV). Brethren, we need more Bible studies around the kitchen table like we had in the 1940’s and 50’s. There is still good soil that is waiting to receive the incorruptible seed and bear fruit (Matthew 13:8 NKJV; Mark 4:8 NKJV; Luke 8:15 NKJV). We understand that not all who are taught the truth will obey the truth (Acts 28:24 NKJV), but at least we can be assured that after they are taught the truth, they will be capable of making an informed decision (cf. Acts 8:26-39 NKJV; Acts 10:30-48 NKJV; Acts 24:25 NKJV; Acts 26).

Rest assured that when we have done our part, God will give the increase (1 Corinthians 3:7 NKJV). We just need to get out of our front yard to do the sowing.

And how do we arrange such home Bible studies? Simply by asking folks if they would like to set up a Bible study in their home.

Related Articles:

  • The Cure For Spiritual Ignorance
  • Let’s Open The Book!
  • God’s Plan For Spiritual Learning
  • Entering God’s Classroom
  • Paul’s Method Of Teaching
  • What Is Effective Teaching?
  • Qualities Of A Bible Class Teacher

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