Sent with Power

Mark 6:7-9 tells us that (Jesus) called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.  He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. (from the NRSV)

Some folks in the United Church of Christ jokingly refer to evangelism as “the e-word.”  Evangelist simply means “messenger of good news.”  And yet, the word ha=s become associated with the most damaging aspects of Christian experience.  Even the idea of evangelism can call to mind uncomfortable or even traumatizing past experiences.  And yet, as Jesus called those early disciples to a life of evangelism, he calls followers today.

Take some time today to consider the word evangelist.

Do you think the idea of United Church of Christ evangelism can be refreshed and renewed for a new generation?  How might that be accomplished?

How do you feel when your body hears the word evangelism?  Pay attention to where the word settles in your body.  Do you feel quite comfortable? Very uncomfortable?  Why do you think you have that response?

What do you think the role of an evangelist is?  How does the role in modern times echo the call that Jesus made to his original disciples?

What are some ways that your faith community engages in evangelism now?  What are some ways that your community could evangelize that it does not yet?

UCC Sunday Bulletin Service