Much of today's society thinks with a postmodern mind. Relevance and personal impact are key as individuals search for reality. It is because the Ten Commandment Series meets people where they are at - in real life dilemmas, in real life situation - that it is of such importance. The Ten Commandments engage people in the issues of life and points them to the solution: Jesus Christ who lived in accordance with them all and sets us free from the consequences when we fail.
A report from the 'Committee on Strategic Evangelism,' sponsored by the Evangelical Alliance, stated that the trends and issues relating to evangelism in these days can be summarised as follows:
Evangelism is most effective as a process
Evangelism is most effective when contextual i.e. associated with lifestyle
Evangelism is most effective when relational
Evangelism is most effective when Christians are seen to have integrity in lifestyle
Evangelism is most effective when it bridges the culture gap i.e. the relationship between what happens in church and in society
We believe the Ten Commandments series uses all of the above principles and provides a tool for effective evangelism, delivering it in an appropriate package for the people of this age.
- By relating to both Christians and the unchurched at the same time, the series offers a 'level-ground' opportunity for response.
- It provides a significant period of time for focussed outreach.
This enables:-
- Christians to give repeat invites to their neighbours, colleagues, family and friends throughout the series of meetings
- a number of opportunities for busy individuals to schedule/reschedule commitments as appropriate
- individuals to come back again and again discovering the Truth and reality of God as the weeks unfold (Process versus Crisis) - By calling believers to 'get right with God,' the series makes Christians more effective witnesses. As their own lifestyle is challenged and affected, week by week, they enter the workplace, the home and the community as different people. Through the validation of their beliefs in changed attitudes and actions, others are drawn to question the cause for such changes.
- When individuals become Christians, they also often become very enthusiastic witnesses. It may be that they impact a totally untouched network of friends, family and colleagues as they tell of how their life has been transformed. It can be an advantage to them if they are able to invite their friends to the same ongoing event that so affected them. We have seen this happen on each series of extended mission.
Care must be taken when choosing the series 'evening.' It is difficult to pick a day that will suit everyone, but it is worth remembering that often Christians and non-Christians think in a different way. Non-Christians will undoubtedly view their weekly diary in a different way to those who are committed to a weekly home group and church on a Sunday. It is important to consider the outsider's view in order to make the events as accessible to them as possible. This may mean that it will not fit easily with the current church timetable.
- What day of the week
- What time of the day - consider commuting time if a workday, and social time if a weekend.
- What effect venue location and access may have on timings
It is important to choose the right venue for the meetings. In order to make the events accessible to visitors, we need to remove as many barriers as possible. To some, the church building itself can be a reason not to go, for others it is of no consequence. It is worth looking at and considering all available options (secular and non-secular).
- Size - not too big, not too small.· Overflow - what plans have you made if the venue size becomes a limiting factor· Comfort· Facilities - refreshments etc
- Location - is it easily accessible to visitors· Equipment - sound, lights, video
- Layout - platform, good visibility from every seat·
- Impression - warm, friendly, professional
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