Teach new believers “spiritual breathing.”
Exhaling: The confession of sin is necessary for a disciple to learn and grow. Without confession, there is no cleansing. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Inhaling: The Word of God changes lives. A regular intake of scripture can keep us from sin. No amount of tools, books, or sermons can replace a steady diet of God’s Word: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Communicating: Speaking the word of God is a vital part of being a follower of Christ. But if you don’t exhale and inhale, you can’t communicate. Those who do not have any breath in their lungs are incapable of speaking. “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” – 2 Timothy 4:2
Note: This blog entry is part of a series based on Beyond Church Planting (coauthored with Neil Cole) that explores the process of evangelism and coming to faith.