"The printed word can be read at a time, place, and privacy of one’s own choosing, unlike fleeting, one-time sermons or radio and television messages. The printed word can be read, reread, studied and meditated upon, just as we do the Scriptures.” ~ Joe R. Barnett (in Kearley 1987, 676)

In Evangelism in the Early Church, Michael Green identified four evangelistic methods utilized by the early believers: public evangelism, household evangelism, personal evangelism, and literary evangelism. He began his discussion of the last of these by noting that, “in addition to speaking to people about Christ, whether in public, in small house groups, or as individuals, one further method was open to early carriers of the gospel. Those with the talent could write. And they did” (Green 2003, 346; my emphasis).

In subsequent comments, Green noted that the creation of the “entirely new literary form, the Gospel,” expanded the reach of the first preachers’ evangelistic message (cf. Luke 1.1–3; John 20.30–31). I would add that the epistles similarly expanded their reach in teaching, building up, and equipping members of the different churches (cf. Rom 14.19; 15.2; 1 Cor 14.12, 26; Eph 4.12–16). Believers since the Church Fathers (see Green 2003, 350–355) have continued to effectively employ this method for outreach, defense, teaching, and encouragement.

As one blessed with the interest, talent, and early encouragement to do so, I have always considered writing an important part of my ministry work. And always, I did it with the goal in mind that I would one day focus on writing as my primary work of service.

For some time, I have been exploring options for securing the financial support needed to sustain and further develop my writing ministry (cf. Matt 10.10; 1 Cor 9.3–12; 1 Tim 5.18). I am glad to announce that the College Church of Christ in Searcy, Arkansas, where I have been a member since 2015, has committed to be “actively involved in supporting this effort by assisting with fundraising and managing contributions that help sustain and expand this important work” (read their endorsement, here).

I am seeking to raise monthly support sufficient to underwrite my housing and utilities and provide a cushion for periodic unexpected expenses (e.g., auto repair). More information about this goal and discounts for donors is available on my website’s Writing Ministry page (here).

What will this mean for you as a recipient of my teaching newsletters and how can you help?

First, access to my website and enrollment to receive The Berea Page and Opening the Scriptures will continue to be freely available. I consider both to be core components of this ministry.

Second, moving forward, both my website and each issue of The Berea Page and Opening the Scriptures will include the “Donate Here” button found below. Clicking that button will direct you to the College Church website’s Giving page. In the dropdown list labeled “Fund,” select the “Anguish Writing Ministry.” Donors can choose how frequently they want to give (one-time, weekly, monthly, every two weeks, twice a month) and can, if they choose, give via an ACH transaction instead of a card.

Third, I am in need of donors to sustain this ministry. Contributions of $10.00, $25.00 etc. can add up and go far. Or, you may know of a church, foundation, or other entity who would be interested in supporting this work. Please share this document with them and/or email pertinent contact information to me so I can contact them.

Fourth, occasional one-time gifts from website users and newsletter recipients will also help (this is comparable to the “Tip Jars” on other sites/newsletters). But let me stress again: the website and newsletters will continue to be freely available.

Fifth, please continue to tell others about this ministry and help expand the reach of the teaching.

Sixth, and not least, please continue to read and respond with questions or comments. I am always grateful for your readership and feedback.

“May grace and peace be multiplied to you” (1 Peter 1.2).

Works Cited

Green, Michael. 2003. Evangelism in the Early Church. rev. ed. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

Kearley, Furman. 1987. “Evangelism Through the Printed Page.” In Rescue the Perishing: 1987 Harding University Lectures. Delight, AR: Gospel Light Publishing Company, 676.