Living on mission means that we must share the gospel in the context of relationships. Although the current COVID-19 crisis is in the forefront of our minds, the challenge remains the same.

Effective discipleship happens when we gather — physically or digitally — in the meaningful fellowship of God’s people. Our goal should be to encourage one another in the mission of God and emerge as missionaries to our neighborhoods, workplaces and other spheres of influence.

How to live on mission
For Caleb Sprinkle, pastor of mobilization at First Baptist Church of Charlotte, living on mission means introducing college students to Christ and discipling them in their faith. He seeks to help Christian students across Charlotte share the gospel in the context of their existing relationships.

Caleb is also a trainer with DiscipleNC, a ministry of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina which partners with churches to train, equip and send out believers to share the gospel and make disciples.

Charlotte is located near central North Carolina’s southern border and is the largest city in the state. It’s home to nine of the state’s top 10 pockets of lostness, which are geographic regions with a concentrated number of people who do not know Christ personally.

In an area as large as metro Charlotte, where those claiming no religious affiliation outnumber evangelicals 2-to-1, it is crucial for believers to encourage one another to engage in disciple-making opportunities. Here are some ways you can pray and get involved.

How can I pray?
Pray for more churches in Charlotte to engage with those who are lost, broken, indifferent or overlooked, and proclaim Christ to them. Pray for local pastors and leaders to catch the vision of DiscipleNC, receive training and multiply their outreach throughout the city. And lift up Caleb as he disciples the next generation of believers to demonstrate a life-changing gospel presence on each college campus.

How can I be involved?
You can start by attending one of the gospel conversation trainings held across the state. With many trainings now being offered online, these events are designed to fit busy schedules and focus on various tactics and tools for sharing the gospel. You will learn what to do and say to share the good news of the gospel competently and confidently.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Content for this article was made available through the 52 Sundays resource. To let your church know more about what the Cooperative Program is doing across the state and world, visit ncbapitst.org/52sundays.