Sermon Central
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The Master Plan Of Evangelism
Contributed by Paul Fritz on Sep 17, 2006 (message contributor)
Summary: Robert Coleman’s classic work on evangelism, is issued so that a new generation of Christians can discover the biblical framework for implementing the impulse they have for spreading the Good News
The Master Plan Of Evangelism by Paul Fritz
The Master Plan of Evangelism - A Summary of Robert Coleman’s Classic Book [S.A.C.I.I.D. D.R.S.E. ] - (An acronym to help you remember these vital ten steps of Christ’s ministries)
Definition of a Witness
A witness is someone who by explanation and demonstration gives audible and visible evidence of what he has seen and heard without being deterred by the consequences of his action.
S. Briscoe, Getting Into God, p. 76
Consequences of Witnessing
Feeling a concern for witnessing can mean that you will have to stand up and be counted, and this can bring some degree of abuse. Years ago I was praying with one of my children at bedtime, and I asked him if he had any problems we should pray about. He couldn’t think of any, even though I could think of a number! Rather unwisely, I pressed the point and asked, “Don’t you have any problems at school?” “No,” he replied quite firmly. “Don’t the kids give you a hard time because you’re a Christian?” Again the answer was “No.” Thinking back to my own traumatic school days, I said, “But kids always give you a hard time if you let them know you’re a Christian.” His reply was frank beyond belief: “All the more reason you don’t let them know!” And quite happily he turned over to sleep.
With the refreshing candor of the very young, he had put into words the practical reasons why many Christians don’t witness. They don’t want to take the consequences.
S. Briscoe, Getting Into God, p. 88
Illustration: This year is the 30th Anniversary of Robert E. Coleman’s 62nd edition of The Master Plan of Evangelism.
It is a study of the principles underlying the ministry of the Master Teacher that exemplifies a clear strategy for propagation of the gospel.
"Few books have had as great an impact." --Billy Graham
Robert Coleman’s classic work on evangelism, is issued so that a new generation of Christians can discover the biblical framework for implementing the impulse they have for spreading the Good News.
Illustration: One reviewer wrote about this magnificent book:
Pros • A challenging and inspiring read.
• You will want to reach out to the unsaved after reading this book.
Cons • I wish that more people who read this book and follow the plan of evangelism that it shares.
The Bottom Line - Every Christian needs to read this book. Youth Pastors should use it in helping their students understand the call of Christ to share our faith with others, and how Christ demonstrates the way it should be done.
The following is a summary of the ten main principled points of Robert Coleman’s Master Plan of Evangelism:
1. SELECTION - He chose twelve men who were suited to become the founding apostles of the Christian church. Jesus selected men who were willing to do His will through obedience to His teachings, evangelism, disciple-making and church planting. By picking men who were willing to learn through a variety of methods, Jesus saw in these simple men potential for leading His kingdom to grow in quantity and quality. Select people who are going to be builders of God’s kingdom rather than their own.
Application: Ask God to give you a hand full of people that you can work together in winning, training, and reproducing other kingdom builders throughout the 92% of the world that is yet to know Christ as Savior and Lord.
2. ASSOCIATION - Jesus said, "Do not fear or be dismayed for lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. No matter what problem we face, Jesus is inside of us enabling us to overcome any adversity. Our God is an awesome God who reigns from heaven above. In wisdom, power and love our God reigns supreme over all powers, authorities, or circumstances. He expects us to take Him at His word when He said, "Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)
Select various people who you can spend extended time with in nurturing, encouraging, and ministering together with. Only through these deeper associations are you able to develop people of character who will learn from your example. Paul said to Timothy, "You followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, patience, faith, love, and perseverance." (2 Timothy 3:10) People will learn more from your personal example than any other single dimension of life. Constantly practice the presence of Jesus in your walk and talk.
3. CONSECRATION - Jesus said, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me. For my yoke is easy and my burdens are light and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28,29) Jesus challenged his disciples to commit themselves to Him and to the will of God above all other priorities. You can learn a great deal from the dramatic encounters that Jesus had with His disciples when the Bible said, "They left everything and followed Him. (Luke 5:1-11)
