Bible Study
Don’t just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Luke 10:1-12, Matthew 5:13
St. Andrew’s Purpose and Vision
- Purpose Statement: “To connect people to the presence and power of Jesus Christ so that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”
- Vision Statement: “To play our part in the re-evangelization of our society and the transformation of our culture.”
Understanding “Re-evangelization”
- Evangelization Defined: Making “gospel people”—those who believe and receive the good news of Jesus
- RE-evangelization: Acknowledging Social Context:
- Society is already “churched” and heavily influenced historically by Christian values; people rarely start from a blank slate.
- Often requires overcoming negative impressions or misunderstandings of faith through patience, grace, and welcoming questions (e.g., Alpha course).
- An Ongoing Task: Every generation requires a fresh gospel harvest; re-evangelization must continue until Christ returns.
The Transformation of Culture
- Individual to Corporate Impact: Gospel transformation begins in individuals and creates a ripple effect into families, workplaces, and key sectors of society (business, education, healthcare, arts).
- Historical Precedent: The First and Second Great Awakenings transformed personal lives and subsequently drove social changes (UT: “What starts here changes the world”).
- Navigating Culture (The “Salt of the Earth” Principle):
- Avoid Accommodation (Idolatry): Maintaining distinctiveness and holiness.
- Avoid Isolation (The “Holy Cluster”): Mixing into society to preserve and flavor it without conforming to it.
Discussion Questions
1. How did you become a “gospel-person?”
2. Define RE-evangelization. Why is context important?
3. Read Eph 2:10. How might this apply to the second part of our vision, “the transformation of our culture”?
4. How might God be leading you to participate in the vision of your church, whether that is St. Andrew’s or another congregation?
Additional Resources
Questions?
Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (RForrester@StAndrews.Church).
Audio & Video
You can listen to the sermon by using the player below or via the St Andrew’s Sermon Podcast on iTunes and Spotify.