Francis Chan: Exponential West Conference 2014

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and being united as the church, rather than relying on human efforts or cleverness to reach the lost. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate that true evangelism happens when believers are deeply connected with God and with each other.

Key Scripture References

• John 6:63 - This passage highlights Jesus' statement that it is the Spirit who gives life, and the flesh has no help in spiritual matters. This sets the tone for the rest of the message, emphasizing the need for a supernatural miracle to reach the lost.
• 1 Corinthians 2:14 - The natural man cannot understand spiritual things, which is why we often fail to see that evangelism requires a miraculous work of God. We must be willing to acknowledge our limitations and rely on His power.
• John 15:4-5 - Jesus teaches that abiding in Him is the key to bearing fruit that lasts. This means being deeply connected with God, not just intellectually understanding doctrine.
• John 17:21 - Jesus prays for unity among His followers, so that the world may believe that He sent Him. This passage emphasizes the importance of love and oneness among believers as a sign of their faith in Christ.
• Philippians 1:27 - Paul writes about the importance of being united in mind and striving together for the faith of the Gospel. When believers are one, they become a powerful witness to the world.
• 2 Corinthians 6:16-18 - This passage uses temple imagery to describe the church as a living stone, with each member connected and working together in harmony. When we unite as the body of Christ, we experience the presence and power of God.

Main Points

The speaker makes several key points throughout the message:

• Relying on human efforts or cleverness will not lead to lasting fruit in evangelism. We must acknowledge our limitations and rely on the supernatural work of God.
• Abiding in Christ is essential for bearing fruit that lasts. This means being deeply connected with God, not just intellectually understanding doctrine.
• Unity among believers is a key sign of their faith in Christ. When we are one, we become a powerful witness to the world.
• The church should be characterized by love and oneness among its members, rather than individualistic or competitive approaches to evangelism.

Conclusion

The speaker concludes by emphasizing that true evangelism happens when believers are deeply connected with God and with each other. We must rethink our strategies and focus on abiding in Christ, being united as the church, and relying on His power to reach the lost.