Our Identity in Christ
Teacher
Lesson Summary
The class began with a heartfelt prayer and a review of a recent anonymous survey of 65 participants, which revealed that the majority of the congregation felt unable to confidently share the gospel. Steve Zeller highlighted the survey’s top concerns, especially the struggle with evangelism, and used this data as a springboard for practical application. He introduced a six‑step framework—current state, ideal state, gap identification, factor analysis, scriptural application, faith application, and action planning—to help members bridge the distance between their present limitations and the biblical ideal of boldly proclaiming Christ. During the lesson, Zeller anchored the discussion in Scripture, citing the Great Commission (Matt 28:19‑20) as the ultimate benchmark for the ideal state and referencing 1 Thessalonians 4:1 to encourage believers to excel in their walk. He stressed that evangelism is a non‑optional mandate for every Christian, not just the outreach team, and urged participants to view themselves as essential partners in God’s mission. The class concluded with a commitment to apply the six‑step process to personal evangelism challenges, with promises to continue the work in the following week.
Key Scriptures
Finally then, brothers and sisters, we request and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received instruction from us as to how you ought to walk and please God, just as you actually do walk, that you excel still more, excel even more.