by Casey Tolzda
Synopsis: In many places around the country, spring and fall are traditional times for holding gospel meetings. Yet, if we expect such efforts to bear fruit, everyone needs to do his part.
Many in churches of Christ have questioned whether gospel meetings are worth the effort. I believe that they are. Any time the gospel is preached, it does not come back void (Isa. 55:11). Additionally, gospel meetings help fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20). They also help to build up and edify the Christian (Eph. 4:2).
A local congregation should have confidence in the man chosen to speak, knowing that he will help the church accomplish the goals for the week. The church should select an individual who helps meet their needs while preaching the truth. It is an ideal time to invite friends, neighbors, families, those from the community, as well as members from other congregations to attend.
Considerable resources, as well as time and planning, go into meetings. Therefore, it should be taken seriously. Here are three quick ways that we can help with the success of such efforts.
Pray for a successful meeting. Pray for the safe travel of those attending. Pray for open and sincere hearts, and pray that all will say and do the right things.
We seek to fulfill the same mandate as did Paul: "To open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me" (Acts 26:18).
Many times a church engages in considerable preparation: cleaning the building, inviting others, advertising, etc., but may still forget to pray. Make it a point to pray specifically for all aspects of the meeting, including the men doing the preaching and taking part publicly.
Attend every service. Consider the example of the Jerusalem congregation: "So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart" (Acts 2:46).
The early church shared time in their personal lives, as well as in collective worship. Make it a point to attend every service.
Many times we are tired and busy. Yet, remember that we must make sacrifices for what is most important (Luke 9:24). You will never regret spending time in services, whether it be Bible study, Sunday worship, or gospel meetings.
When others see our example, it may motivate them unto more faithful service. If we all attend every assembly, then the visitors will observe our zeal. Not only that, it will add to the worship, singing, fellowship, and encouragement of all involved. When visitors attend and recognize what the church means to us, they may realize what it should mean to them.
Remember the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 28:19).
Do not just attend, but invite others to come. Asking someone to attend a gospel meeting may make all of the difference in his eternal salvation. Something may be said or done that touches his heart. Once the meeting begins, remind them to attend, or continue to invite others up until, and including, the final night.
Don't forget to personally greet those who walk into the assembly. Many times, visitors have gone places and reported that nobody talked to them. As a result, they did not feel welcome.
When someone visits, follow up and thank him for coming. Touch base with every visitor in one way or another soon after the week has concluded.
The day of the gospel meeting is not over if we are willing to put in the work! We cannot blame society or culture. Instead, we should realize that the fields are ripe for harvest (John 4:35). It is time to get to work (John 9:4).
The success of the gospel meeting depends on the members of each local congregation. May those who enter our assemblies know that we not only give them a welcome but offer a message of life in a dying world!
Author Bio: Casey works with Washington Street church of Christ in Beallsville, OH since 2018. He and his wife, Alyssa, reside in Beallsville. The church website is washingtonstreetcoc.com. He can be reached at casey.tolzda@gmail.com.
