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Five challenging conversations in ministry everyone faces  

by Andrew Knight

Team Lead Student Worker Team, Crowded House Church

April 2, 2016
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    If I had to define my ministry I would say, “I am on staff with a ministry of hard conversations.” Conversations that press Jesus into the forefront of our heads and hearts.

    I have a desire to “need Jesus more and more, not less and less.” I want a life that forces me to grow in faith, not a life that is okay getting by without him. I want a life that parades him down the streets and puts him on display.

    Focusing on these five types of conversations helps me see a need for Jesus more and more, not less and less.

    These five types of conversations revolve around three major themes: Evangelism, Discipleship, and Mission. These conversations are a good indicator if I am leaning upon Jesus or not, and if I am really engaging evangelism, discipleship, and mission, or not?

    Conversations of Conversion

    Am I sharing my faith, my testimony, asking questions, and inviting people to trust in Jesus? If I am not then I am not fully relying upon my Christ. Because this type of conversation leads me to focus on Jesus unlike any other because only He can convert.

    Conversations of Commitment

    Once I’ve built a relationship and want to call a person to a more formal discipling relationship, I ask for their commitment in some key areas. I call them B.A.S.I.C. conversations.

    • Bible study commitment
    • Authenticity/Accountability
    • Selection of our vehicle as their investment ministry
    • Intentional Ministry focus
    • Commitment to the local church.

    If am not challenging men to commitments outside of their comfort-zones then I am probably not relying as heavily on my Christ in Discipleship.

    Conversations of Confession

    John 5:16 says, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you have may be healed.”

    If I am not initiating conversations confessing my sin I am short-changing the glory of grace from my Savior. I more clearly see my need for Jesus when I am honest with these conversations.

    Conversations of Confrontation

    Galatians 6:1 says, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.”

    Confronting a friend who is in sin is often the greatest heart check for me. I have to hold to the cross for identity and not the transgressors opinion of me.

    Conversations of Calling

    I want to call my disciples to grand goals for their life. Whether it is missions or sacrificial living, I want to call men to great things in the world. Whether it is on the university campus or the workforce, I want to challenge them to the call of God in Christ Jesus.

    Do you find yourself facing any of these conversations or other hard conversations? Are you avoiding them? Or do you enter them with dependence on your Christ, leaving the outcome to Him?