One of the greatest things about mission is seeing members of the church learn about ministry for the first time.  I try to use every possible opportunity to teach the team members how to think 'ministry minded' about what we are doing.

Mission for us is one of the times of the year that we set the values that impact the way the ministry runs for the next twelve months. 

One of the most important things is to teach how to analyse an event. The other thing is to know what your goal is for the evening.

Years ago Chappo gave us four questions to analyse events at the end of the evening.

1. Was the gospel preached?
2. Was it preached in categories that people could understand?
3. Were there unbelievers present?
4. Was the atmosphere conducive?

We've just finished the first event - Peter Jensen speaking on 'Start the Ultimate Relationship'. 

1. Was the gospel preached?
Very well. Peter Jensen gave a great talk on the rich young ruler from Luke's gospel.

2. Was it preached in categories that people could understand?
Yes. Peter spoke in the categories of 'Start the Ultimate Relationship' (we will make it available for audio and video download and as a dvd). The introduction was about two men who met women - for one (outgoing one) it was love at first sight and he jumped immediately, for another it was a quick decision but he moved slowely and the third was someone who considered and fell gradually in love. He also had the man in the passage who in the end would not start the relationship. 

At the end you could jump now or keep gowing gradually (either were good).  But it was so clear that it was a mistake to do what the man in the passage did.  I was really pleased that I had my closest family member who doesn't believe there to hear Peter.  

3. Were their unbelievers present?
Lots.  There were a hundred people there.  Lots were guests. At my table four guests, four hosts.

4. Was the atmosphere conducive?
The atmosphere was outstanding.  Candles on the tables.  Dimmed lights.  9 people per table.  A full building.  It was excellent. With someone so close to me present I was very sensative. I thought everything was exactly right. (That's a wrap!)