Why should I use an evangelist?

In Ephesians 4:16 the Apostle Paul writes, "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

In the same chapter in which Paul introduces the gifts of the Spirit for the enriching of the Body of Christ, he also established the need for each gift to be utilized to its greatest potential for the building up of the Kingdom of God. Keep in mind that those who are genuinely called to a particular ministry should be used to their greatest potential by the Church for the glory and honor of God.

It is also important to recognize that though there are many good preachers who are gifted in the presentation of the gospel, there are those who also have a unique anointing for evangelism. According to the previous scripture, the Body of Christ will be its healthiest when each part or joint utilizes that gift with which it is distinctively endowed. This can only be achieved when church leaders and pastors acknowledge and use one of its greatest resources, the "evangelist."

How do I schedule an evangelist?

The North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention maintains an up-to-date directory of evangelists, including names, addresses and areas of ministry. To request a printed copy of this directory, you may contact your State Evangelism office, or the North American Mission Board at (770)-410-6315.

Once God has impressed upon your heart the desire to invite an evangelist, you should begin contacting several evangelists right away. Your first contact with an evangelist should include inquiries about the person's ministry, calling, recent places of service, as well as their beliefs and principles. In addition to achieving the goals of your place of service, you should also have the following questions in mind:

Does the evangelist -
• Rely on the Word of God? (2 Tim. 2:15)
• Recognize the work of an evangelist? (2 Tim. 4:2-5)
• Reach out to those who are lost? (Phil. 2:19-23)
• Reveal the mind of Christ? (2 Tim. 2:24-25)

In most cases, the evangelist will be open to talking about these issues, and at that point, the two of you should agree to pray about the possibilities of ministering together in the future. The evangelist understands that not every request for this particular information entails a firm commitment or invitation to minister; therefore one should not have reservations about contacting more than one evangelist before making a final decision.

Many evangelists have full schedules for months in advance and one should not be discouraged when the first date requested is not available. Remember that working with an evangelist is a partnership and a partnership requires flexibility, fellowship and faith.