Pastor Dean Read - "The Offense of Evangelism" - July 8, 2017

How is evangelism like the good ol American game of football?
In football you have an offense and a defense. The purpose of the offense is to score. The purpose of the defense is to keep the other team from scoring. You don't win unless you score, and each team should be trying to win, and outscore the opponent.

In the battle between Christ and Satan, also known as the Great Controversy, who are the teams?
And what is the score?
Christ's team is His Church on earth, "those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Revelation 12:17 The devil's team is composed of his followers and those who want nothing to do with God and hate or ignore the teachings of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Bible.

Evangelism is the offense of the God's Church on earth! And prophecy is one of its greatest weapons. Why? The Bible teaches that prophecy is a sign for believers. It is through the revealed prophecies of the Bible, especially those that point directly to Jesus that cause those who are searching to find the truth and believe in Jesus.Thus, Jesus  gave the Great Commission to His Church--"go into all the world, and preach the gospel, and teach them to observe My commandments, and baptize those who are willing to become My disciples. (My paraphrase of Matthew 28:19-20).

The night before Jesus was crucified, after washing the disciple's feet, Jesus made a bold announcement, predicting that He would be betrayed. Jesus said, "I tell you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe that I am He." (John 13:19). Yes, Jesus prophesied, but at the same time, He gave His disciples their mission. He said, "I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you." (John 13:15). Take notice of this! For we see Jesus performing His mission to seek and save lost sinners, while at the same time reinforcing believers through prophecy.

Do you want to hear more? You can watch the sermon, the first in a three part series, via the link below:

Pastor Dean Read - "The Offense of Evangelism" - July 8, 2017--YouTube Link