Mingle. Invite. Study.
Introduction to Sidewalk Evangelism
Sidewalk Evangelism (SWE) is a simple yet powerful approach to community outreach. It empowers church members to connect with people right where they are—on sidewalks, in parks, in marketplaces—to invite them to learn more about Jesus Christ and His teaching through Bible study. The method follows a three-step process:
Mingle
Engage with the community in a casual and friendly manner, building rapport.
Invite
Extend invitations to community members for further engagement and learning.
Study
Offer study materials and resources to support spiritual growth and understanding.
Then repeat!
Churches—especially those near cities or high-traffic areas—have successfully handed out thousands of invitations, inviting people to study the Bible in group or personal settings. The principle is clear: "He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully."
"The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work, and unite their efforts with those of ministers and church officers."
Sidewalk Evangelism & the GROW Model
Sidewalk Evangelism can help a church to implement the GROW and Global TMI disciple-making process.
Customizing Sidewalk Evangelism for Your Church
Every church can adapt SWE to its context by focusing on four areas:
Schedule:
Set your SWE timeline
Invitations
Create appealing Bible study invitations
Study Format
Choose between seminar, group, or lecture styles
Resources
Choose Bible studies like Amazing Facts, It Is Written, Discover, etc.
Phase 1 – Preparation (Weeks 1–2)
- Distribute Bible study invitations
- Promote through ads and need-based events
- Begin engaging with the community
Phase 2 – Launch Studies (Weeks 3–4)
- Start group Bible studies (3 per week)
- Continue inviting and advertising
Phase 3 – Deepen and Harvest (Weeks 5–10)
- Reduce studies to 2–3 per week
- Visit interests, follow up, and prepare for baptism
- Encourage church and Sabbath School attendance
Ongoing Follow-Up
- Continue weekly studies and visitations
- Start discipleship using the Discipleship Handbook
- Mentor and integrate new members
Effective Study Formats
- Seminar Style (Recommended):A teacher leads tables and interactions
- Group Study:Circle seating with peer discussion
- Evangelistic Style:Traditional lecture setup; less interactive
Recommended Resources
- A teacher leads tables and interactions
Funding Support for Sidewalk Evangelism (SWE)
Every church, regardless of size or location, can engage in Sidewalk Evangelism. For those that need financial assistance, limited funding is available.
Who Can Apply?
Churches that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply for SWE funding:
- The church board has officially approved the SWE initiative.
- A local SWE coordinator or team is assigned.
- The church has a clear plan for conducting Bible studies using group or seminar formats.
- There is a timeline for implementation (e.g., 10-week cycle).
- The church commits to following up with interests through visitation and discipleship.
- The church agrees to submit a post-initiative report.
What Can Be Funded?
Funding may be used to support:
- Printing Bible study invitations
- Advertising (social media, flyers, banners)
- Bible study resources
Funding is exclusively designated for churches applying the three simple principles of SWE.
How to Apply?
To apply for SWE funding:
Online FormEmail:rj@outpostcenters.orgwith the subject:Funding - [Church Name]
You will receive a response within 3–4 weeks regarding the status of your request.
Stewardship & Accountability
All recipients are required to submit a final report summarizing the outcomes of the SWE effort, including Bible study attendance, testimonies, baptisms (if any), and lessons learned. This helps ensure transparency and allows us to continue supporting others.
Reporting Your Sidewalk Evangelism Activities
Why Report?
Sharing your outcomes encourages others, strengthens mission awareness, and helps us measure the global impact of SWE.
What to Report?
- Church name and location
- Dates and phases completed
- Invitations distributed
- Bible study attendees
- Baptism results
- Testimonies or lessons learned
Ready to Start?
To launch Sidewalk Evangelism in your church:
- Get church board approval.
- Choose your study format and materials.
- Set your schedule.
- Prepare your team.
- Order or download invitations and guides.
- Begin praying, then mingle, invite, and study!