Ep. 019 | Outreach and Evangelism | The Farming Model of Evangelism

Update: 2025-04-01

Description

Episode Summary

In this episode, Bart and Nathan discuss the "Farming Model" of evangelism, building on principles shared in Episode 17. They explore a strategic approach to both individual and corporate evangelism based on the parable of the seed from Matthew 13.

Hosts:

Bart Blair

Nathan Bryant (Executive Director of Assist Church Expansion)

Key Points

The Need for Evangelism

A 2021 LifeWay research study found 71% of people are open to hearing someone's life story when meeting them for the first time

In the UK, 75% of non-Christians who had conversations with Christian friends about Jesus felt comfortable, and 33% wanted to know more

Only 55% of non-Christians who knew a Christian said that person had ever talked about their faith

The Farming Model of Evangelism (Six Steps)

Choosing the Field
- Identifying who God is calling you to reach
- Focus on relationships where ongoing connection is possible
- Consider both individual relationships and corporate community focus

Preparing the Soil (90% of the work)
- Removing obstacles to faith through building relationships
- Addressing sociological barriers rather than just theological ones
- Creating connections between non-believers and multiple Christians
- Building spiritual momentum through relational momentum
- Listening more and talking less

Planting the Seed
- Sharing the Word of God, specifically about Jesus and the gospel
- Creating the right environment for growth

Cultivating
- Giving time for the message to grow and mature
- Not rushing to "close the deal" prematurely
- Creating the best circumstances for spiritual growth

Harvesting
- Picking the fruit when it's ripe
- Recognizing when someone is ready to make a decision

Creating a "Greenhouse" Environment
- Evangelistic Bible study approach (5-7 weeks)
- Elements needed: Word of God, prayer, connection to believers, gifted teachers
- Research shows significantly higher retention rates with this approach

Corporate Evangelism Strategy

Churches need a clear process and strategy

Leveraging different spiritual gifts within the church body

Providing clear pathways for members to connect non-believers

Working as a team to reach the community

Resources Mentioned

Book: "The Soul Winning Church" by J.A. Metters

Previous Episode: #17 on the principles of evangelism

The Revitalize My Church Podcast releases two episodes each month with the goal of helping churches navigate change and reorient to a new and healthy future.