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Door-to-Door Literature Evangelism and You
“A great door and effectual is opened unto me.” 1 Corinthians 16:9
“I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” Revelation 3:8
“I am He that openeth, and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth.” Revelation 3:7
The hour is late, the time is short; and, thanks be to God, opportunities for evangelism still abound around us. Our Lord Jesus Christ and our God’s great salvation through Him are so truly wonderful that we may well wonder why we (author included) are so backward about speaking to the many lost souls around us about Jesus, His death and resurrection, and what God has done to meet our neighbor’s needs.
However, literature evangelism is something almost anyone can do. The distribution of God’s Word in simple ways is still effective. Tract evangelism is particularly effective when accompanied by wisdom, a bright smile, and a few kind words. The Lord can supply these as necessary for each occasion. How sad it is that we often encounter opportunities and are not ready with a smile, a word, a tract, or even a silent prayer for the person we meet. Tract evangelism is not as easy as it once was, and many shy away from the confrontation involved. However, Tract Cards and Pocket Calendars are easily carried and often better received and longer kept than traditional tracts. It is a good idea to regularly carry a few.
Another method of literature evangelism which does not involve so much direct confrontation is door-to-door literature evangelism. In years gone by, it was common for warm-hearted souls to simply knock on doors and introduce themselves and the Lord. Doors don’t open so easily any more, but most doors still have handles.
Restrictions regarding door-to-door literature distribution differ by locality, but most communities in North America still allow it. The literature used should be attractive, appropriate for the season and for the intended receivers, and should be appropriately presented as well. A common method is the use of Doorknob Literature Bags. These translucent plastic bags are made with a doorknob hole toward the top and they come in a variety of sizes, for various sizes of literature. Consequently the literature placed in them is visible (hopefully invitingly so) and yet protected from the weather.
A few pointers: These bags are meant to be hung on doorknobs. Hanging them elsewhere can cause offense. They should never be left on the ground—to do so is likely to be regarded as disrespectful of both the material and the receiver. Doorknob bags may be easily affixed to closed-loop door handles with the use of S-hooks easily made from large plastic-coated paper clips (plastic-coated so that they will not scratch or leave rust marks) or the use of plastic or wood coffee stir-sticks (passed through the bag hole, then behind the handle, and then back through the bag hole). A sturdy and roomy literature bag (with a shoulder strap) for carrying a good quantity of bagged literature is a real asset.
As you approach each dwelling, pray for the blessing of those living there. Be prepared to smile and to offer the literature if the residents see or hear you and open the door. Increasingly, we see signs such as “No Solicitors”. Technically, merely distributing literature is not solicitation; but such signs often mean that placing literature at that specific location may not be appreciated. In such cases consider prayerfully what you should do, and remember that we are to be “as wise as serpents and as harmless as doves.” God may intend some other means of reaching the “No Solicitors” souls. We need not be aggressive. Truth properly presented is adequately aggressive in itself. Doves represent peace. We represent the Prince of Peace. But in soft soil, even a serpent leaves a trail.
Wholesale careless distribution and rigorous saturation distribution are not God’s methods. His salvation is universally offered, but He always deals with each individual in a unique way.
Diligent door-to-door literature distribution offers many benefits: Typically, anyone who has done a significant amount of it has discovered that it offers unexpected opportunities to begin Spiritual conversations with lost but interested souls, not to mention the occasional meeting with a fellow saint never previously met—to the encouragement of both. Such experiences help a warm heart to begin to witness with his or her lips. After all, Paul said, “We also believe, and therefore speak.” 2 Corinthians 4:13
Sharing the gospel is good for the soul. It encourages private prayer and profitable meditation—and there is often significant time for both in walking between dwellings.
Speaking of walking, it is good physical exercise, too—and most North Americans need considerably more of that. Prayerfully finding and setting a goal provides a good incentive for this healthful exercise. The author knows of a number of individuals who have, over time, methodically covered not only their own community this way but also a good number of nearby communities—sizeable ones, too!
Our Lord sent out his disciples in twos, and this is also often advisable in many areas. Working with another believer is mutually encouraging and very practical. Depending on the situation (safety factors, etc.) a pair may work opposite sides of a street or from opposite ends of a complex—arranging to meet at specified times and/or places. Enter particularly unsavory places with special care as well as prayer. Begin with prayer, continue with prayer, end with prayer—and look to our Lord to bless His Word (and you) in His own time and way, as He surely will: “God … giveth the increase.” 1 Corinthians 3:7.
JAK