Devotionals

SOUL-WINNING IT’S LIKE PLANTING A GARDEN By Henry Jaegers

by Henry Jaegers
11/23/17
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SOUL-WINNING

IT’S LIKE PLANTING A GARDEN

By Henry Jaegers

Winning a soul is like planting a garden. Perhaps the reason we do not find results in our efforts is something is missing from our presentation. What farmer would ever think about planting a crop in his field in the same manner that we try to win a soul? It cannot happen, nor will it. Before we ever attempt to win a soul, we must first, like the farmer, plow the ground. We all know the story. In the parable of the soil that the seeds along the wayside never penetrated the ground and the birds came and consumed it. It takes time to build relationships to the point where people will listen to the message. Plowing the ground means taking time to be a friend to someone who might be hardened to the gospel. We must earn the right to share the gospel and that means we must take time to plow the ground.

The second step in winning a soul to Christ's is first, we must plant the seed. This requires the understanding of the Scriptures and explaining them to others so that they can understand the message more clearly. Randomly throwing Scriptures without first making sure the hearers understand is a waste of seed. Sometimes we hear people say that others must repent of their sin. But that recalls, what do you mean by “repent” and second, what sin are you talking about? This is the example of improperly planting the seed. People cannot believe if they do not understand. So, planting the seed means to share the word of God in such a way so others can understand it and believe and embrace Jesus as Savior.

The third step in winning a soul is cultivation and watering the ground. The seed cannot grow and will die if it is not watered. And that means as we go along we are constantly encouraging and helping them to understand more and we pray for them for the Holy Spirit can do His work in their hearts. Sometimes praying is not a priority in the lives of many. But we cannot see the Holy Spirit work in any heart If we are not praying. Without the Holy Spirit. There is no activity. And if there is, it is superficial at best.

Finally, there is the final stage is where the crop is reaped. I wonder if we are convinced that only God and the Holy Spirit can make a Christian. You don't make Christians by high-pressure debating and argumentation. The Holy Spirit convicts of sin give assurance of forgiveness, enables the Christian to function and produce fruit that glorifies God.

So, in your attempt to win men for Christ, remember it's as easy as planting a garden and all three steps on our part, like plowing, planting and cultivating are necessary, and if we are faithful in these areas God will be faithful to produce a genuine Christian because I was genuinely faithful.