“All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.” (Acts 17:21)
The more life changes, the more we remain the same. Centuries ago men were intrigued with the newest thoughts or unique ideas. We are the same way, but instead of gathering in market places and intellectual discussion halls, we are inundated with the media. Whether in print, television, radio or the internet, we are constantly listening and scrutinizing the news. Paul understood the best way to reach the Athenians was to find their respected mode of communication. We see in Acts 17, he used their history, beliefs and practices to find common ground and to share about the “UNKNOWN GOD.”
As disciples in 2009, we must begin to evaluate methods of reaching the world. Are our techniques and practices conducive to effective worldwide evangelism? In my opinion, many of our practices are outdated and not relevant to reaching the masses. If we are to win the world, media is a must. Paul’s preaching in Athens was equilvant to disciples having an audience online. The latest ideas and thoughts are communicated via Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, television and radio. As a disciple, are you using the tools of the world to further spread the gospel?
I had the tremendous fortune of spreading the seeds of faith on Saturday, June 27, 2009 with my friend and partner in the gospel Marcos Mercado. Periodically he and his wife Amarillis host a two hour radio program titled, “Marriage Beyond the Vows”, on one of Philadelphia’s radio stations, Praise 103.9. I was inspired by Marcos’ boldness and probing questions as he challenged listeners to have a foundation on the “Rock.” Not only did he teach from
Matthew 7:24-27, he also challenged those who called in on their marriages and convictions regarding lordship. During the program I asked the engineer, Red Chris, approximately how many listeners were in the audience. To my surprise and encouragement he said the station has
600,000 consistent listeners and that perhaps approximately 100,000 listening that particular morning in Philadelphia alone! The program is also simulcasted to the Charlotte, NC area and reaches across five states including parts of Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. In addition, many listeners also tune in online. A couple from Texas emailed and shared how they listened to the show and exclaimed, “it’s the best kept secret!” I received a message on Facebook from Lavonia Drabot, whose husband leads the Charlotte Church in North Carolina and she wrote, “I heard you for about 20 minutes in the car. Great stuff!” Others, including some sisters from New York, encouraged us with these words, “Good job” and “Wow! That’s hot!!!”
God is moving! I want to thank Marcos along with the brothers and sisters from the Philadelphia Church who have supported this endeavor. Their innovation of taking the message beyond the confines of the building is an upward calling for us all. I pray more disciples will follow their example and learn to use all the outlets that God has placed within our means to boldly preach the gospel.
"Look at the nations and watch— and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told." (Habakkuk 1:5)
For others who want to learn how to use your talents and gifts to further proclaim the gospel, please join us on Sept. 18-20, 2009 at the Arts & Entertainment Conference where we all will be inspired to take the message to as many as possible through the media. For more information, visit
www.AandEconference.com.
Mike Patterson
Lead Evangelist
The GACC
