BUILD 2022 DISCIPLESHIP FOR A NEW YEAR God’s Empowering Presence

January 23, 2022     Matt. 28:18-20

1. Take the right approach

There are many methods, but only one message. All nations means various cultures, histories and mindsets.

There are two main categories:

• non-religious

• religious

2. Ask questions

What is your spiritual background? What is your (current) spiritual mindset?

Would you be willing to engage this (discipleship making process) with me?

3. Pray for direction, wisdom & empowerment

#1 Religious – Jesus: John 3 with Nicodemus:

Nicodemus’ spiritual background? He is a rabbi. Nicodemus’ current spiritual mindset? Still practicing the LAW. How did Jesus engage him? Starts with the Gospel.

#2 Religious – Jesus: John 4 with Samaritan woman:

Her spiritual background? Practiced the Law, but rejected any connections to Jerusalem and the temple. Her current spiritual mindset? She is not practicing her faith. How did Jesus engage her? Starts with the Gospel.

#3 Religious – Paul: Acts 17 at Mars Hill:

Their spiritual background? They were pagans. Their current spiritual mindset? Loved to debate philosophy. How did Paul engage them?

Note three things:

1. Paul starts with Creation.
2. Paul uses philosophers and poems of that day.
3. Paul moves to the Gospel.

#4 Peter’s Command: 1 Peter 3:15:

Know what we believe and how to engage others.

Do so with respect.

Addendum – John 4 Samaritan woman:

Jesus uses supernatural “gift” to known something unknown.

Two important things:

1. She tries to redirect.
2. Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit.

4. Three Scenarios:

Melinda:

Spiritual background? Raised catholic, only attended holiday services, did not continue after high school. Current spiritual mindset? Atheist, very smart, degree in philosophy from Ivy League, mother killed at 56 by drunk driver. How do you engage?

Keith:

Spiritual background? None, never been to church. Current spiritual mindset? Agnostic, very open to religious discussion. How do you engage?

Tony & Jill:

Spiritual background? Casual Methodist & Presbyterian, social aspect. Current spiritual mindset? None, but want to raise two children in church, can’t agree; marriage is a mess. How do you engage?

Conclusion: Matthew 28:18,20b

18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

20 And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.