1. Have
a special service where you preach about Operation Andrew and the active step
of praying for the salvation of others. Distribute two Operation Andrew cards
to each person at the service.
2. Ask
people to write down the names of people for whom they are committing to pray-for
salvation. Write the same names on both cards.
3. Ask
people to demonstrate a tangible commitment, such as coming forward and leaving
one copy of their card in a special place at church, such as at "the
foot of the cross." There's nothing magical about coming forward. It's
simply a way to help people mark this time of commitment. Keep these cards
confidential in your church.
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4. Schedule
specific follow up services where you'll preach about prayer for the salvation
of others. Ask your congregation, in advance, to bring their Operation Andrew
cards. Spend time as a congregation praying together for the salvation of
others.
5. Schedule
specific services where your congregation can expect an evangelistic message.
Challenge your congregation to invite those on their Operation Andrew cards
to these specific evangelistic services.
On
the surface, these steps might appear simplistic. Do they work? Absolutely!
While it's not a formula, we see through the millions who have accepted Christ
at Billy Graham Crusades that God honors prayers for the salvation of others.
Remember,
evangelism is not a program; it flows from personal, Godly relationships. It's
not an accident, but rather a matter of intention and prayer. As a preaching
pastor, you can lead your congregation into intentional evangelism.
_______________
Tom
Phillips is Vice President of Crusades and Training and Executive Director of
the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove , Asheville, NC.