Sunday was the third message in the Challenge and Power of One series. The message was called Friendship for Christ, taken from 1 Thessalonians 2:8. Here is a brief outline of the message:

I. Develop a genuine friendship (1 Thessalonians 2:8)
   A. Two extremes to avoid
      – friendship with no evangelism
      – evangelism with no friendship
   B. The marks of genuine friendship
      – love, loyalty, sharing, fun, sacrifice, encouragement, stimulation, spiritual challenge
   C. People who come to faith gradually
      – 69% of respondents described their coming to faith as gradual rather than as the result of a sudden decision

II. Pray for your friend (Acts 16:14)
   A. Pray for the various needs in their life
   B. Pray for spiritual interest
   C. Pray for their salvation

III. Share Christ naturally as God gives you opportunity
   A. Be wise in looking for opportunities (Prov 11:30; Col 4:5)
   B. Be ready when God brings the opportunities along (1 Pet 3:15)
      – share what you know and keep on learning
      – share the gospel (Jesus; cross; death; resurrection; forgiveness)
      – share with gentleness and respect

Note: Click on the Sermons tab at the top of the blog for this and other messages.