Articles
Are You a Channel For the Gospel?
Louis Cook
09/09/18 - Evangelism
John 1:41 "He found first his own brother Simon and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which translated means Christ)." (NAS95)
Andrew was the channel or conduit between Christ and his brother Simon. Think about this astounding statement. When Andrew found Jesus, the Messiah, the Anointed One the first thing he did was find his brother, Simon. There was enthusiasm, joy, and excitement that Andrew wanted to share with his brother.
Acts 10:24 "On the following day he entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them and had called together his relatives and close friends." (NAS95)
Cornelius was a channel, a connector between his relatives and close friends and the knowledge of Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One. "They were gathered together to hear the message God commanded Peter to speak. He preached to them Jesus, about His death and resurrection, explaining to the need for a Savior and they were baptized." [Acts10:48]
We can all think of individuals who became a channel, a means of delivering the gospel from one person to another, because of the relationship between the 2 people. Andrew immediately sought his brother, Cornelius used his home as a gathering place to learn God's word.
How are you serving as a channel/connector to bring others in contact with Jesus, the Christ? Do you have joy and excitement in announcing, "we have found the Messiah!" to family, friends, and others. Create opportunities to make the connection with your circle of family and friends. If you don't feel comfortable teaching, follow the example of Cornelius, arrange for a teacher, gather them in your home [one, two or a bunch] and let the power of the gospel work on good and honest hearts.
The Monthly Hymn Singing is a perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to the Messiah in a non-stressful way, "Hey, come to join us to sing for a while". As a follow-up for the unsure "no preaching, no collection, just singing".
Home Bible Studies are also a convenient time to invite neighbors, friends, and family that is non-stressful for those who are unsure if they want to be involved.
Consider for a moment, what if Andrew hadn't brought Peter to Jesus, how different would his life have been. You can easily see how critical being a channel/connector is to the spreading of the gospel. There may be someone in your circle who can have a major impact on the saving of souls. If they only knew "about the Messiah".
WILL YOU BE A CHANNEL/CONNECTOR FOR YOU FRIENDS, FAMILY AND OTHERS?