Proverbs 21:5
Introduction:
1. With hearts and minds set to work towards our goal, how do we get there?
2. Any work we set out to do must have a working plan of action to reach the goal.
3. Today we consider this principle generally before pondering several key steps conducive to succeeding in total congregational evangelism.
Discussion:
I. The Necessity of Planning
A. “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” (Benjamin Franklin).
B. This principle is self-evident in the general realm of productivity, and it is applicable to spiritual productivity as well (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Proverbs 21:5; Luke 14:28-30).
II. The Necessity of Strong Leadership
A. Leadership: “The function that fosters and maintains a congregation’s focus on divine purpose, promotes rational efforts to achieve it, and keeps counterproductive processes in abeyance” (Joe Ellis: The Church on Purpose, pg. 129).
B. Leader: “One who can generate, communicate, and sustain commonality of purpose.” (Ibid).
C. Every office the Lord placed in the church (elders, deacons, evangelists, etc.) exists for the purposes set forth above; such is imperative to build up the body (Ephesians 4:11-16).
III. Four Steps to Effective Planning
A. So, how should we (both leaders and those being led) go about making this plan?
B. Here are four biblical principles that should prove fruitful in this effort:
1. We must first seek God’s guidance (Psalms 37:5-6; Proverbs 3:5-6; 15:22).
2. Ensure every proposed action honors His will (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17; James 4:13-15).
3. Be flexible, circumstances often demand a change of course (Proverbs 16:9; 19:21).
4. Pray before, during, and after every step (Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 4:2-6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Conclusion:
1. Much more could be said in this vein, but this is a good starting point.
2. The challenge to us all is to pray, ponder, and discuss these things together.
3. If we do not have a road map to our destination, how will we ever get there?
Further Food for Thought
1. Have you ever tried to accomplish a goal with no plan of action?
2. Would you try to build a house without a blueprint?
3. What ideas do you have to help maximize our congregational evangelistic efforts?