5 Benefits of Literature Evangelism to the Church Body

1.    Keeps us focused on evangelism (the primary function of the church, according to SDA Church Manual, p. 81 and Matthew 28:18-20).  When we devote our “first interests and highest energies to every-member evangelism, most church problems are alleviated or prevented” (Church Manual, p. 81).

2.    Promotes spiritual and social development.  Effectively engaging those who don’t already share our views encourages deeper prayer and study of God’s Word, because the questions and objections we encounter will reveal the gaps in our knowledge and deficiencies in our characters (1 Cor. 13:9; Phil. 3:12-14).  We also must practice tact in our presentation of the gospel, giving to consideration different cultures and personalities.  We must develop a willingness to reflect on our own shortcomings (Steps to Christ, p. 28 [last paragraph] and pp. 64-65), then pray and work for their removal.  We don’t want people to reject our Messiah and our message, because they can’t see beyond our mess (Matt. 23:13)!

3.    Provides supplemental income for some and a livelihood for others.  Not all will achieve the level of success needed to be full-time literature evangelists. However, if you faithfully dedicate your time and energy to this work on a part-time basis, you will be materially blessed for your spiritual labor (1 Cor. 9:7-11).  Yet you will persevere even when it doesn’t seem profitable, because your labor is motivated by love not lucre (1 Cor. 9:12).

4.    It is a way of ministering while raising funds for further ministry.  The vision of your particular ministry need not be limited to your personal finances, nor the church budget.  There are more resources in the world than in the church and they all belong to God, to do as He pleases (Ps. 50:10-12; Hag. 2:8; Is. 61:6).  The Lord will often prepare the hearts of people outside the church to supply the needs of the church, if we would just ask (Ezra 6:1-12; Neh. 2:7-9).

5.    Establishes a presence in the community.    One study showed that 95% or more of people that join the Adventist church already have a relationship with someone in the church.  The books will inform them of our beliefs, but our personal witness is what will inspire them to become a part of our family.  Literature evangelism is not only about information, but relationships.  People don’t buy things from strangers.  To get people to buy, you must win their confidence.  They must see that you desire their good.  Many will be impressed that you care simply because you overcame the twin fears of talking to strangers and risking rejection to bring them something helpful.