21st C British Evangelism

 We should certainly make full use of the internet and other technologies. 

But in general, we would be wise to expect evangelism to be slower and harder than it was in 1800, 1900 or even 1950. 

Many people have much less background in the Christian faith. To some it will have novelty appeal. As it is less familiar, it may face less contempt. But some people still think they know it and they don't need it. It is not really known but it is rejected nevertheless. It does not seem plausible. Or at least not any more plausible than many other alternatives. Atheism may seem intellectually credible. Buddhism may have its attractions. To some Biblical Christianity will seem impossible or toxic. If someone is interested in the big questions of life, it might not be obvious to head to their nearest bible or church. 

The narratives of our culture are different from Reformation times. No doubt people ought to feel their sin and guilt and fear the penalty of a just God, but they may be more interested in how to live an authentic fully human life than how to avoid the fires of hell. We must get to sin and judgement, but we must also think about likely ways-in or points of contact for the gospel story.   

The witness of our lives, homes and families will be increasingly important if the wider culture decays. Evangelism may include things like fostering and adoption and long term service in deprived communities as well as having others round for meals. 

And evangelism must priorities our own families and our own churches. It is no good giving out lots of tracts and losing the kids or the regular but somewhat nominal church goers. 

Evangelism must be a deep work and it must be demonstrated in a gospel culture if it hopes to impact our wider culture. We must know and live and love the story of Jesus if we are to share it with others and invite them in.