[By Mike Ramey] Gang leaders don’t like to lose members to local churches. They will ‘tolerate’ members ‘looking at’ religion and the church as a good ‘exit’ strategy, or as a good means of looking legitimate. Churches that want to make a true dent in Modern Street Gangs need to add a forgotten key--the key of discipleship. To put it bluntly, a church MUST show gang members the way out of gang life TO Jesus Christ AND how to STAY in Christ.
Don’t be fooled. Just because a person ‘comes forward’ at an altar call after the preaching of salvation doesn’t mean that they ‘get the full message’. Remember, some of those coming forward have been exposed to bible terms, but with different definitions. Pastors and altar warriors need to make sure that converts ‘know that they know’ Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and can publicly state why they believe in Him.
Ex-gang members will have to clearly be shown what they came out of and what they were (Sinners); plus, what they are now and where they are now (Saints) based upon what the Scriptures say! This process is crucial! Many gangs use the KJV in the wrong ways to ‘support’ their sin. There needs to be a clear discipleship process with God’s Word, as well as people to keep tabs and contact with this new lamb.
Next, the convert should be ‘pared up’ with someone of the same sex that has been a Christian for more than a few years, and can ‘come along side’ them to answer their questions; show them some friendship, and--if needed--be that ‘middle of the night contact’ if they have questions about the faith.
Last but not least, the church where the ex-member has joined NEEDS to have a regular, weekly meeting to teach new converts and new members--from the KJV Bible--what God expects of them, how to live this new life in Christ, and how to grow in Christ. I’ve seen far too many cases where churches ‘dance a jig’ over getting a new member, but won’t take the time to keep up with that member after the service is over!
Real, genuine discipleship is that forgotten key to victory over ANY sin!
Mike Ramey is a Modern Street Gangs and Media Consultant for THE GANG LINE, Indianapolis, Indiana. He can be reached at rameysgangline@yahoo.com. © 2015, 2016, 2018 Barnstorm Communications.
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