Street Evangelism - Bike

[Jonah]

I want to use my bike for street evangelism. The idea is to be in a park in the neighborhood, every Saturday at the same time. I would like to set up my bike which has a crate mounted on its back rack so I will have some sings on the sides of the crate, and some literature/pamphlets in the crate. I was considering having also some music, and recently I've come across "Reformed Hip Hop". As I have doubts that this king of music may be too worldly, I also see that the lyrics are sound, and the artists interviewed were solid on the doctrine in their interviews (one of them is a member of 10th Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia). My neighborhood is predominantly black and Hispanic, and the young people culturally will most likely identify with this kind of music/art. It may be impossible anyway since I might need to charge for this, and this would also present legal problems, although I'm not sure.

I would welcome any feedback/ideas.

Thank you

 

[earl40]

I want to use my bike for street evangelism. The idea is to be in a park in the neighborhood, every Saturday at the same time. I would like to set up my bike which has a crate mounted on its back rack so I will have some sings on the sides of the crate, and some literature/pamphlets in the crate. I was considering having also some music, and recently I've come across "Reformed Hip Hop". As I have doubts that this king of music may be too worldly, I also see that the lyrics are sound, and the artists interviewed were solid on the doctrine in their interviews (one of them is a member of 10th Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia). My neighborhood is predominantly black and Hispanic, and the young people culturally will most likely identify with this kind of music/art. It may be impossible anyway since I might need to charge for this, and this would also present legal problems, although I'm not sure.

I would welcome any feedback/ideas.

Thank you

Why not just hang with your friends and witness to them and invite them to church? If they don't to come to church with you hang with them still.

 

[Jonah]

Why not a bike
There are many ideas to evangelize, and many Christians with particular personalities. And different conditions, times, etc. And BTW I can do both.

 

[mgkortus]

Are you hoping the music will help initiate conversations? Or do you view the music itself as the message? Will this type of evangelism lead to relationships with those you are trying to witness to?

 

[Jonah]

In a way, both. as I said, I've just discovered that music (and words there are important) recently, after years of being prejudiced. This is not to replace the bible, and the doctrine, but as I said, some of those artist present theology.
And in the broader sense it would be pitiful if the music wasn't also a message, as, in the broader sense all we do.
But my goal would be to instill interest in Church Documents, Reformed writings (including Puritans which are in my opinion essential), Theology books, Apologetics, and classic Christian Hymns

 

[Reformed Roman]

Reformed hip hop was one of God's means to sanctify me though many years. Through it I was introduced to doctrine. I grew up in the boonies, and was listening to 50 cent, kanye west, etc. After I was given the gospel I got introduced to sound rap. I was pushed into the gospel deeper and deeper every day through the music which later led me to a website with like minded Christians. They were talking about doctrine I never heard of. So a kid who got saved in the middle of nowhere managed to grow radically all alone, and the music helped. I was getting the gospel proclaimed to me daily. Everyone listens to music. I don't think hip hop is evil. If a killer created the fork to kill does that mean I wouldn't eat with it? A lot of things were created for a lot of purposes. Every culture expresses themselves through different forms of music. And God and His goodness can be proclaimed in all of them.

People who can't fully see that, many of them can't because they don't understand other cultures. Cultural elitism where you have to talk, look, dress, listen to certain music, etc. That is a problem. I know many will disagree with me.


Regardless I would focus less on your method. Bottom line is people need the gospel. Hip hop, tract, or a conversation, none save a man. God changes hearts through the gospel. Proclaim it and watch God work. As long as your proclaiming it don't be down on yourself or worry about the details too much.

On a side note, if you don't listen to rap much, like many music styles, they don't fit everywhere. Shai Linne would rarely be listened to here in St Louis and most in my subtext would hate his music and style. They would prefer Lecrae, KB, Thisl, stuff that they hear in this context. While east coast rap is popular in certain contexts, etc.

Glad you're wanting to proclaim.

BUT DON'T GIVE OUT FREE CDS!!! It's stealing and illegal. Many artists release free music to give out. Or you can ask artists directly about sharing their music, but burning cds is illegal unless your using them for personal use (and you own them)

I could offer many free suggestions from solid artists (if you need it)

 

[clark thompson]

I want to use my bike for street evangelism. The idea is to be in a park in the neighborhood, every Saturday at the same time. I would like to set up my bike which has a crate mounted on its back rack so I will have some sings on the sides of the crate, and some literature/pamphlets in the crate. I was considering having also some music, and recently I've come across "Reformed Hip Hop". As I have doubts that this king of music may be too worldly, I also see that the lyrics are sound, and the artists interviewed were solid on the doctrine in their interviews (one of them is a member of 10th Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia). My neighborhood is predominantly black and Hispanic, and the young people culturally will most likely identify with this kind of music/art. It may be impossible anyway since I might need to charge for this, and this would also present legal problems, although I'm not sure.

I would welcome any feedback/ideas.

Thank you

If you are able to share the word by doing this then it is a very good thing to do no matter what other people may tell, you need to do what the Lord leads you to do.

 

[Jonah]

Many thanks, Zach. I don't go on the Internet that often, that's why reply only now. I will talk to some people about free stuff. In general, I agree with you about cultures, although every culture has strengths and weaknesses, so not always it is just a "cultural difference" (what I mean some cultures could develop certain things better or worse than others, and in this sense we can judge them). Still, we are Christians, and, in a way, above any cultural limitations, etc.

God bless you,
Jonah

PS. Yes, please give me your suggestions.

 

[Jonah]

Thanks Clark.
Jonah

 

[MW]

Suppose God did use "hip-hop" (which I doubt), the fact He hasn't used it in the lives of others makes it a divisive force. You say hip-hop; others say rock n roll; others say metal; others say jazz; others say blues. Why divide the church in this way? It pleases God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. God uses preaching. Of that we can be sure. On that we can unite. So unite with the church and be a force for good.

Where does the idea of reaching out on one's own come from? We do not see it in the Bible. Obviously super-heroes have to to go it alone, but God does not call His people to be super-heroes. He calls them to be His people.

 

[Ed Walsh]

We do not see it in the Bible. Obviously super-heroes have to to go it alone, but God does not call His people to be super-heroes. He calls them to be His people.

I agree that two or more are better than one. But I also remember Paul's lone work of evangelism In Athens while he was waiting for Silas and Timothy to arrive. Acts 17:16 & 17 Verse 15 seems to indicate that more people might have been with him, but his evangelism seemes to have been alone.

 

[MW]

but his evangelism seemes to have been alone.

"Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him." It seems clear that he did not deliberately and ideally place himself in that position.

 

[Ed Walsh]

It seems clear that he did not deliberately and ideally place himself in that position.

Agreed!! Thanks

 

[Edward]

Before I answer, I want to make sure I understand the question. Are you planning on purchasing CDs and literature and reselling them (either at cost or for a profit) or are you talking about making counterfeit CDs (stealing) to sell?

At the least, you would need to contact the city to see what is required in the way of a street vendor's permit. And make sure it's not a nice bicycle, or you may be walking home.

 

[Reformed Roman]

So telling people about the gospel of Jesus Christ, in the world... Deliberately. Means you're trying to be a "superstar" or a "rockstar" Christian??????


I don't really know how to respond to that. .

Has God ever used a book, a movie, a word from a friend, a piece of art, or anything really to remind you of His mercy and grace?? Has God used even a well cooked meal to remind you of His goodness???

Why in the world couldn't a song, that directly points me back to the scripture, why couldn't a song point you back to the scriptures?

A song will never save anyone. The word of God is the means to save.. But God uses many means to remind us of the Word of God..

If God can use you "giving a reason for the hope that is in you" to help save a soul, what is wrong with being more intentional about sharing that hope and spreading that word?

I'll never agree with the stance many on this board have on spreading the good news... It saddens me that many can almost discourage one from spreading the good news.. Even if they don't agree with hip hop in general... Many would still come here to discourage anyone from being intentional about sharing the good news.. It seems more like an excuse to be comfortable and worries me.

 

[Reformed Roman]

Let me just add this...

Clearly Pastors are called to Shepard the flock.. Their preaching from the pulpit is primarily for the church, considering church is a gathering of saints in the first place.

So just a challenge... Where are the preachers at, going out to spread the gospel at your church?? Something for everyone to consider. You may pay a few missionaries to go outside of the country, but who goes out to share??? If you think that we shouldn't be intentional with sharing the good news outside of church, and you think that God mainly uses preachers why aren't people preaching at your church frequently outside the church??

You're churches may be all doing these things.. Praise God if they are.. But I see churches that won't dare step out of the pews. Saints gather on Sunday, don't share at work and then they go home, and don't share at home... I'm Just trying to challenge some of these thoughts.. Now I'd love to hear responses. I genuinely want to see your viewpoints because from what I've heard in this thread and others, people believe no church people are called to evangelize, evangelism is a dead gift not given today, and God uses preaching, yet these preachers are in churches preaching to Saints.. I'm not getting it..

 

[Jeri Tanner]

but his evangelism seemes to have been alone.

"Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him." It seems clear that he did not deliberately and ideally place himself in that position.

In addition, doesn't the fact that Paul was an apostle, and thus a NT prophet come to bear? Isn't this an example of the acts of the apostles being descriptive of the mighty acts of God in establishing the church, rather than prescriptive examples for us to emulate?

 

[a mere housewife]

Jay, I was thinking more about the volume. Occasionally we get to go to a park here and not a fan of rap or hip hop myself, I find the volume at which others are playing it a bit disruptive. But I imagine you've already thought of that. I will pray for your effort.

Zach, I think there is trouble where people get the idea that this is everyone's calling, and that regular callings are not meaningful unless we are doing this. We do often have opportunities to share the word of God at work or in other settings where pastors couldn't go. When I was trying to work many years ago I had some very meaningful conversations. My sister has been able to share the gospel with all of her co-workers by reaching out to them in their troubles -- getting her pastor involved in counseling. It wound up that they all went to a funeral connected with the office, at which her pastor preached the gospel very clearly. I don't have those opportunities now. Now I cook and clean at home for my husband who is studying in seminary and working in a church with people who are working in the world. We do pray that they are learning how to share and live the gospel there, and that God will have them just where He can use them as witnesses. But my life is not part of this in a very active way at present. Yet I become more convicted, the more I see how miserable people are without Christ, that we should be daily praying and watching for opportunities to share Christ in whatever way we can. I share your concern (seeing it in myself) that it is too easy to retreat from wanting to share anything with the world at all. We have the only joy and hope this earth affords. We were given it freely. We should be longing not to keep it to ourselves, praying that we could overflow with it to others in some way, even if God has to crush the vessel to make it flow out. And we should know that God has us just where we are, even when where we are feels very insignificant, in His great purpose of salvation as we minister to one another.

 

[Miss Marple]

I encourage you in your endeavor and hope you post some updates as to how it goes.

 

[Jeri Tanner]

Let me just add this...

Clearly Pastors are called to Shepard the flock.. Their preaching from the pulpit is primarily for the church, considering church is a gathering of saints in the first place.

So just a challenge... Where are the preachers at, going out to spread the gospel at your church?? Something for everyone to consider. You may pay a few missionaries to go outside of the country, but who goes out to share??? If you think that we shouldn't be intentional with sharing the good news outside of church, and you think that God mainly uses preachers why aren't people preaching at your church frequently outside the church??

You're churches may be all doing these things.. Praise God if they are.. But I see churches that won't dare step out of the pews. Saints gather on Sunday, don't share at work and then they go home, and don't share at home... I'm Just trying to challenge some of these thoughts.. Now I'd love to hear responses. I genuinely want to see your viewpoints because from what I've heard in this thread and others, people believe no church people are called to evangelize, evangelism is a dead gift not given today, and God uses preaching, yet these preachers are in churches preaching to Saints.. I'm not getting it..

It seems right to me that gifted men should be sent out into the "market places" of towns and cities to proclaim the gospel. I don't know why we don't see more of this? And Zach, I don't think anyone here is denying that we all should be ready to speak of Christ when we have opportunity to do so. I certainly take that duty and privilege seriously. It's the "every member a minister" model that is being challenged as unbliblical, and rightly so. I think there can definitely be the danger of a Lone Ranger mentality that could spring from the "every member a minister" model. I agree, it would be no good to correct these errors but not present the biblical model of how evangelism should be being done. If anyone can provide links to Reformed resources on biblical evangelism by local churches, that would be much appreciated I'm sure; I imagine there are a lot of past helpful discussions here on Puritanboard.

P.S. Back in the 70"s I was part of the Jesus Music movement. We just knew that the use of music outdoors would be an aid in evangelism- would draw people to us and then to Christ, etc. But we were wrong then, and it's still a wrong impulse (a well-intentioned impulse, but faulty nevertheless) to think that the use of any kind of music, skits, etc. will be effective in drawing people to Christ. It is not the prescription of Scripture, and it just doesn't work.

 

[Reformed Roman]

Let me just add this...

Clearly Pastors are called to Shepard the flock.. Their preaching from the pulpit is primarily for the church, considering church is a gathering of saints in the first place.

So just a challenge... Where are the preachers at, going out to spread the gospel at your church?? Something for everyone to consider. You may pay a few missionaries to go outside of the country, but who goes out to share??? If you think that we shouldn't be intentional with sharing the good news outside of church, and you think that God mainly uses preachers why aren't people preaching at your church frequently outside the church??

You're churches may be all doing these things.. Praise God if they are.. But I see churches that won't dare step out of the pews. Saints gather on Sunday, don't share at work and then they go home, and don't share at home... I'm Just trying to challenge some of these thoughts.. Now I'd love to hear responses. I genuinely want to see your viewpoints because from what I've heard in this thread and others, people believe no church people are called to evangelize, evangelism is a dead gift not given today, and God uses preaching, yet these preachers are in churches preaching to Saints.. I'm not getting it..

It seems right to me that gifted men should be sent out into the "market places" of towns and cities to proclaim the gospel. I don't know why we don't see more of this? And Zach, I don't think anyone here is denying that we all should be ready to speak of Christ when we have opportunity to do so. I certainly take that duty and privilege seriously. It's the "every member a minister" model that is being challenged as unbliblical, and rightly so. I think there can definitely be the danger of a Lone Ranger mentality that could spring from the "every member a minister" model. I agree, it would be no good to correct these errors but not present the biblical model of how evangelism should be being done. If anyone can provide links to Reformed resources on biblical evangelism by local churches, that would be much appreciated I'm sure; I imagine there are a lot of past helpful discussions here on Puritanboard.

P.S. Back in the 70"s I was part of the Jesus Music movement. We just knew that the use of music outdoors would be an aid in evangelism- would draw people to us and then to Christ, etc. But we were wrong then, and it's still a wrong impulse (a well-intentioned impulse, but faulty nevertheless) to think that the use of any kind of music, skits, etc. will be effective in drawing people to Christ. It is not the prescription of Scripture, and it just doesn't work.

I mainly agree with what you said towards the end.. I think people constantly look for new methods to attract the lost... Reality is only God can save though the gospel..

I just see biblically that we all should be ready to share, and look for opportunities to do so.. And when someone wants to do that, I don't think it should be discouraged.. I also don't agree with all the similarities some people here make with preaching from the pulpit (to the church of Christ) and sharing the gospel and the Word publically. We can agree to disagree but I'm more than willing to listen to other view points. If anyone wants to break down the Word for preaching in multiple contexts in the bible, give descriptive definitions, etc.. I'm all for it.. The word should shape our views and our views shouldn't shape the Word so don't think by my passion for the gospel to be spread, that I am unwilling to hear other opinions


One more thing... What about the great commission?? I'm guessing most of you think of that as a commission to apostles, not believers? Same with Acts when Jesus told the disciples to go out in Acts 1?

 

[MW]

So telling people about the gospel of Jesus Christ, in the world... Deliberately. Means you're trying to be a "superstar" or a "rockstar" Christian??????


I don't really know how to respond to that. .

It is probably best that you don't respond to the straw man of your own making.

 

[Jeri Tanner]

Let me just add this...

Clearly Pastors are called to Shepard the flock.. Their preaching from the pulpit is primarily for the church, considering church is a gathering of saints in the first place.

So just a challenge... Where are the preachers at, going out to spread the gospel at your church?? Something for everyone to consider. You may pay a few missionaries to go outside of the country, but who goes out to share??? If you think that we shouldn't be intentional with sharing the good news outside of church, and you think that God mainly uses preachers why aren't people preaching at your church frequently outside the church??

You're churches may be all doing these things.. Praise God if they are.. But I see churches that won't dare step out of the pews. Saints gather on Sunday, don't share at work and then they go home, and don't share at home... I'm Just trying to challenge some of these thoughts.. Now I'd love to hear responses. I genuinely want to see your viewpoints because from what I've heard in this thread and others, people believe no church people are called to evangelize, evangelism is a dead gift not given today, and God uses preaching, yet these preachers are in churches preaching to Saints.. I'm not getting it..

It seems right to me that gifted men should be sent out into the "market places" of towns and cities to proclaim the gospel. I don't know why we don't see more of this? And Zach, I don't think anyone here is denying that we all should be ready to speak of Christ when we have opportunity to do so. I certainly take that duty and privilege seriously. It's the "every member a minister" model that is being challenged as unbliblical, and rightly so. I think there can definitely be the danger of a Lone Ranger mentality that could spring from the "every member a minister" model. I agree, it would be no good to correct these errors but not present the biblical model of how evangelism should be being done. If anyone can provide links to Reformed resources on biblical evangelism by local churches, that would be much appreciated I'm sure; I imagine there are a lot of past helpful discussions here on Puritanboard.

P.S. Back in the 70"s I was part of the Jesus Music movement. We just knew that the use of music outdoors would be an aid in evangelism- would draw people to us and then to Christ, etc. But we were wrong then, and it's still a wrong impulse (a well-intentioned impulse, but faulty nevertheless) to think that the use of any kind of music, skits, etc. will be effective in drawing people to Christ. It is not the prescription of Scripture, and it just doesn't work.

I mainly agree with what you said towards the end.. I think people constantly look for new methods to attract the lost... Reality is only God can save though the gospel..

I just see biblically that we all should be ready to share, and look for opportunities to do so.. And when someone wants to do that, I don't think it should be discouraged.. I also don't agree with all the similarities some people here make with preaching from the pulpit (to the church of Christ) and sharing the gospel and the Word publically. We can agree to disagree but I'm more than willing to listen to other view points. If anyone wants to break down the Word for preaching in multiple contexts in the bible, give descriptive definitions, etc.. I'm all for it.. The word should shape our views and our views shouldn't shape the Word so don't think by my passion for the gospel to be spread, that I am unwilling to hear other opinions


One more thing... What about the great commission?? I'm guessing most of you think of that as a commission to apostles, not believers? Same with Acts when Jesus told the disciples to go out in Acts 1?

Zach, If you haven't considered these things before, it all seems very foreign to what many of us grew up being taught. But I realized there was something wrong with the model used broadly by the evangelical church from reading again and again through Acts and the Epistles. Don't think of it as a view that squelches evangelism; it is really the biblical view that will increase evangelism and bear the most fruit. I found this today on Puritanboard: http://www.puritanboard.com/showthread.php/80652-An-open-letter-to-open-air-preachers-return-home! (Don't be put off by the title!), and from that thread, this link to the OPC Journal online: http://www.opc.org/OS/Ordained_Servant_2009.pdf, with an article by Charles G. Dennison of special interest beginning on about pg. 43. I think the reformed view is that the Great Commission was given to the apostles and continues as a mandate to the church.

 

[Jonah]

There are few things. First, going alone. I would rather not go alone, and I am sorry that that wasn't clear. ON the other hand, if I couldn't find anybody to go with me, I may go alone. Second. I am not doing some king of personal evangelism, I talk about this with my pastor. I am not going to preach! I am not a preacher. But saying that this kind of evangelism is not in the Bible is a bit silly. We do whatever we can do, and we do it in our best knowledge, and with the help of our local church authority, and with the Word of God as ultimate authority, but it is better to do it imperfectly (and isn't it always imperfect) than just sit around. I am in a position that this "street evangelism" seems to be the best option, the kind of evangelism I could do now. I seek to use my gifts and brains to serve the Lord. I do remember that evangelizing is not something mechanical, but our whole lives should bear witness, especially in the work place, etc. There are many ways. They are not exclusive, rather the other way around. About being divisive with music. Really? I personally like traditional hymns, and can't imagine, even for practical reasons, how we could sing hymns if we started to argue about what music is best. It's not about that. I thing that we go with traditional hymns, only if for practical reasons. On the other hand those who talk about "reformed" hip-hop here seem have no clue, just a kind of a legalistic view. I've heard many kinds of so called "Christian music" and most of this is bad. But... there are some good ones, with meaningful, faithful lyrics. And some hip hop has brilliant lyrics. And this is not about liturgy, it's about living outside the Lord's day but under God. And of course, I don't think that some kind of regulative principle applies to who can evangelize. Preaching, yes.

 

[Jonah]

"I think the reformed view is that the Great Commission was given to the apostles and continues as a mandate to the church"
It doesn't mean, however, that personal evangelism is banned. And to say that it is okay to talk on your job, or maybe okay to talk on the street, but not okay to have a bike seems a bit too mechanical. At which point it would stop being personal. How many people at the same time. Does talking about Christ in a circle of more that 7 people should be considered sinful?

 

[Miss Marple]

I believe the ban is on 10 or more... I think your line of reasoning is cogent and hope all goes very well.

 

[MW]

I've heard many kinds of so called "Christian music" and most of this is bad. But... there are some good ones, with meaningful, faithful lyrics.

So it is personal preference. The gospel should not be tied up with personal preference. At all! Why cause unnecessary offence? I am sure you do not desire to see people walk away from you thinking the gospel is tasteless simply because of musical preferences.

The apostle became ALL things to ALL men, not SOME things to SOME men. Just have a think about it before you brand this as legalistic. It is the opposite of legalism; it is evangelical to the core. It is the gospel that matters. This is what God uses to save sinners. He does not use cultural means. Cultures are divided by nature. Christ is our peace!

 

[Jonah]

It's not personal preference. How did you deduce that? I just related my personal experience, because others used that to judge Hip Hop out of their personal experience. It's also not emotional. My personal preference would be Handel, and as far as hymns go Trinity Hymnal (although it's not just personal preference, but it would be, too). Some think that music sung in OPC is tasteless, and they get offended. That way we go back to evangelism without culture utopia, which of course it simply impossible. How all things to all men applies to a particular bike in the particular location - does it mean I should carry millions of types of music, or none of them. I guess what you say is none of them. How about my clothes - suit? Decent and in order, I know. Is suit decent? I like wearing a suit. I love it. There is no cultural neutrality. Somebody will always be offended. We can always stick with Vulgate Latin I'm sure the people in my neighborhood won't be offended. They will just ignore it.

 

[Jonah]

God doesn't use cultural means? God is the Lord over everything. I agree that we are no longer White or Black as Christians. Cultures divide that's true. That's why we need to go beyond them, but we cannot abstract from them. It's just not possible. I am post-millennial. Christ didn't do it.Paul appealed to Athenians by using their cultural references. And if music is to be used, its complicates things even more. You can say that music is not to be used as means of evangelism. This would require a regulative principle in regard to evangelism that occurs in the world. I don't think we have one. And why using Hip Hop increase me, and not Christ? Because it takes attention from what is most important? How if it is in submission to it? I agree that Christ did everything against the natural tendency of sinful man to use "marketing" in spreading the gospel. And coming back to "tasteless". I think this was your personal preference.

 

[MW]

It is always sad to see the Spirit of God replaced with the spirit of the age. Trusting to the works of men's hands might give a greater deal of personal control over the process but it is a barren exercise to squeeze grace out of nature.