Whose Job Is It, Anyway?

October, 2002

by: Dave Hintz

In 1976, under the banner of “Rescue for Seattle,” the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association unleashed what many believed to be one of the most successful evangelical campaigns in the pastor's career. The numbers seem to speak for themselves, 434,100 people passed through the gate and 18,136 individuals walked the aisle to give their lives to Christ. Such an abundant crop, seems to make the millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours worthwhile. However, of all of those decisions, the churches in the Seattle area grew by a grand total of 1,285. With these facts and figures in mind, allow me to pose the question, “Was this outreach a success?” If one focuses on the importance of gathering decisions, he might be tempted to do so. Yet, one cannot find such an emphasis in the Bible. Matthew 28:19 does not read, “Go therefore and make decisions of all nations.” But rather, the Bible stresses the importance of making disciples. Fully committed, Christ following, Bible obeying, Gospel sharing, men and women who have forsaken all to carry their cross (Matthew 10:34-39; Luke 14:25-33). The Bible knows no other definition of a Christian. Although I rejoice in the conversions, the notion that 17,000 people walked away assured of their heavenly destination troubles me. In essence, many have been patted on the back on the way to Hell as they have mistakenly believed that they have found Christ. With such events, the statistic that 40 percent of all Americans profess to be born again should come as no surprise (Barna Research, 2000). Although those who put on the crusade were well meaning and sought to do what is right in the eyes of God, the end resulted in many no longer looking for a savior.

Not only does this campaign fail by allowing for false assurance, and it also undermines the personal ministry of many, as they seek to bring people to Billy, instead of bringing Christ to the masses. The ironic aspect of the Billy Graham Crusade is that 83 percent of the integrated converts already knew family and friends of the church they attended. Although 218 converts would still be unaccounted for, we can see that reaching out to friends, family, and neighbors can have roughly the same net impact as a city–wide revival campaign.

At Calvary Bible Church, we must see that we can't wait for the professionals to do our job. All of us must take up our cross and faithfully proclaim the Gospel to those God has placed in our sphere of influence. As the Evangelism Pastor, it is my job to share my faith, and your job to share your faith, but it is not my job to share your faith.

1 Peter 3:15 “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;”