If the principles of evangelism that we have been talking about in this series are good for us as individuals, they are exponentially better when we view the sharing of our faith as a “team sport.” A Jesus-centered community (a Bible study group, covenant group, or just a group of Christian friends) is the most powerful expression of the gospel. God designed us to live in community and He also designed us to share our faith in community.

When I fly fish, most often I fish with two or three flies connected together. It’s a helpful technique because it gives the fish three options. They can pick and choose which one of them they want to try and eat—I don’t really care which one they choose, as long as they pick one of them!

On our street in Colorado Springs, we have teamed up with another couple to love the neighbors on our block and to help them see the hope and life that is in Jesus. John 13:34,35 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Every person may not “click” with you as an individual. Your stories, personalities, and interests may be completely different. But when we “go” into our world, and relate to friends alongside other believers, there are all kinds of benefits.

The most powerful expression of our love and dependence on Jesus is when it is played out in the context of Christ-centered relationships. Our world struggles with an epidemic of relational dysfunction, yielding independence, loneliness, and isolation. Biblical interdependence, authenticity, and the transformation that takes place in Christian community is so attractive. Imagine the hope and appetite that is generated when not-yet-believing people come close enough to see believers that are truly loving one another in the way that Jesus has commanded us.

Who are you teaming up with to reach your friends?

Is there a believing friend or community you could approach about reaching your not-yet-believing friends together?