We Need More Soldiers

II Timothy 2:3-4

(2 Tim 2:3-4) "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. {4} No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier."

Today we honor the veterans who served this country and secured the freedoms that we enjoy. I certainly believe that it is proper and honorable to do so. I grew up during the time of the draft. When the government felt we needed more soldiers, we simply drafted young men into the service of their country. I was never drafted, but I volunteered to serve. This morning we enjoy a certain degree of peace in this world, but there is a battle going on.

It is a spiritual battle for the souls of men, women, boys, and girls. Now we need more soldiers, more workers if you will. The Lord has chosen not to draft anyone into spiritual service. He wants us to volunteer to get into the battle, to get into the work because the need is great.

This morning we officially launch our Outreach Ministry. It isn't anything terribly new. The need has always existed, but today I make the same appeal that Jesus made. We need more soldiers…we need more volunteers…we need more workers!

I. The importance of sharing the gospel with others cannot be over-emphasized.

II. Two things are needed to utilize contacts made through members of the congregation.

III. Do What it Takes to become a Caring Church.

This morning, I want us to receive this challenge from our Lord. We need more soldiers for the battle, more workers for the vineyard. Will you determine to take an active part in reaching this world for Christ? It starts now! It starts here! We have no Outreach Program…we have an Outreach Ministry and that requires people who are willing to minister to others. Will you come and join with us in this great task? The Lord will not draft you…His desire is that we volunteer. Here am I Lord… [10]

Perhaps you are here today and you have never trusted Christ as Savior. The invitation is for you to come to Jesus. There will be those here who would love to take the Bible and show you how you can be born again. How you can have eternal life.

What about those who have never made the commitment to this local church? If you need to be baptized come today and surrender. If you are not a member of this local church, the invitation is for you to come and join with us. Get involved in a work that will make a difference for all eternity.