FIVE PEOPLE

During our recent gospel meeting, Allen Webster asked each of us to do something. He asked us to make a list of five people that we wanted to see obey the gospel (or return to the church). He then said we should tell these people about the upcoming meeting and invite them to attend. These five people should then be mentioned frequently in our prayers. Finally, every effort should be made to encourage them to attend. Our meeting with Sam Long is two weeks away. How are you doing with your five?

Have you made your list? I am confident all of us know five people (probably more) who are lost that we would like to see become Christians (or faithful Christians). Paul writes, “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved” (Romans 10:1). Paul had a strong desire for the salvation of his kinsmen (fellow Jews), even wishing that he would be accursed (lost) if it meant their salvation (Romans 9:3). Of course, such was impossible, but we see from this his strong desire for the salvation of the lost. However, that desire was accompanied by action. He spent much of his life traveling and enduring persecution so that the lost could hear the gospel. What are we willing to do?

Have you talked to them and invited them to attend? As mentioned above, Paul’s desire was accompanied by action. You can make a list of five people, or a hundred or a thousand, but nothing is likely to be accomplished until you do something. I read a story about former Speaker of the House, Tip O’Neill. His neighbor told him, “Tom, I’m going to vote for you tomorrow even though you did not ask me to.” O’Neill responded, “I’ve lived across the street from you for 18 years. I cut your grass, I shovel your walk. I didn’t think I had to ask for your vote.” She replied, “Let me tell you something: people like to be asked.”

Have you prayed for them? “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16). It was true then, it is true now. Take the names on your list to the foot of God’s throne. Utter their names in prayer that they will be receptive to your invitation and to the gospel. As you read your Bibles, take note sometime of how many times Paul mentioned praying for his readers. Prayer does work.

Have you gone the extra mile? Jesus said, “And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two” (Matthew 5:41). Do more than what is necessary. Ask them more than once. Offer to give them a ride. Invite them for dinner one night and then bring them to services. We never know what we might do that will trigger a response and interest from someone. Jesus cared for the lost, including you and me, so much that He was willing to die. How much are we willing to sacrifice for them?
--Lamar