Silent Word Ministries

How-To Series Vi For Deaf Ministries “Learn to do it Right the First Time”

How To Evangelize Deaf People “And they bring unto him (Jesus) one that was deaf.” – Mark 7:32

Teaching & Training With Bible Principles

Silent Word Publications PO Box 889 – Trenton, Georgia 30752 HT06 Evangelize Deaf People

Introduction Silent Word Ministries is a nonprofit, independent, Baptist organization with a federal 501(c)3 approval. Articles of Faith and guidelines are available upon request. The ministry was established in 1966 to fulfill the Great Commission through evangelism and ministry to the Deaf world. The goal of the ministry is to reach the world of the Deaf for Christ; to help establish Deaf ministries in strong, fundamental churches; to win deaf to Christ worldwide; to help build established Deaf ministries; and to strengthen Deaf people into Christian maturity with a literature program. Ministry Motto: The desire of our ministry is prayer for boldness to share Christ, wisdom for the best way, and open doors of opportunity that Deaf will be saved, families strengthened and churches served. Send for a free catalog listing or sample of our literature. All Bible references are King James Version Disclaimer Silent Word Ministries ministers primarily to those who serve in all areas of Deaf ministries. We are not professional Interpreters or Deaf educators, but these manuals can be a help to all, both hearing and Deaf, who are involved in the Deaf world – Ted Camp, SWM.

Welcome to SWM Manual Series These ministries manuals are written for almost all areas of the Deaf ministry. They are written from trial and error, experience, and knowledge. We have learned what works and what does not work. We could print many more manuals about what did not work than what does work. Also remember that we are missionaries, not professional educators. These manuals are written primarily for Deaf ministries, but professional educators can also find helpful information. It has been stated, "You can cut down a tree with a dull ax but it is easier with a chain saw or a sharp ax." These manuals are dedicated to help deaf ministries to do it right the first time. These HowTo Manuals contain many years of experience from different writers with expertise in certain areas of the Deaf ministry. We seek to upgrade and revise them as we learn better ways to do it. Many leaders ask us the question, “If you were the leader in our church what would you do? What changes would you make? How would you do it?" These manuals will teach and train you in how we would do it. Note: Some of this manual has been condensed into a SWM booklet: Soul-Winning 101. Your helpful suggestions and comments would be appreciated! Some booklet are written from Deaf historical facts with documented information. The Deaf and hearing will both benefit from this special Deaf Booklet Series – SWM. E-Mail: [email protected]

Visit SilentWordMinistries.org for more information and helpful materials

Silent Word Ministries – PO Box 889 – Trenton, GA 30752 We are here to Serve!

SOUL WINNING The First Goal Of A Deaf Ministry It has been said, “The church that does not go will soon be gone!” Jesus Christ came to seek and save people who were lost. “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). This should also be the goal of a good ministry, to seek and save lost people. Always remember that Deaf people have souls, families, needs, and they also face eternity. The greatest need of Deaf people is not to hear, but to be saved, in Heaven they will hear forever! Because they have lost their hearing, must they also lose their souls? Never forget that your priority is to present the Lord and the Bible to the Deaf in Sign Language. If you do not help them who will? God is only interested in people. Don't love things, but love people!

It is good to take care of those who come to your church, but the great need is for those in the church to go visit and win other Deaf to the Lord. You cannot find in the Bible where the sinner is to come to church, but the Bible does teach that the church should go to the sinner. Always make the Great Commission part of your ministry. Stay involved in the Great Commission of reaching the Deaf for Christ! The best way to build the ministry is soul-winning. The best way to learn how deaf people think is soul-winning. As you witness the Holy Spirit will help you to learn signs so you can better present Christ to the deaf. As you visit their homes you learn from them and their culture. As you go you will know more about them. Don't wait for them to come to you, but you should go unto them! The Great Commission is divided into two parts... 1. Preach Gospel (evangelize them) - 2. Teach Them (disciple them).

Soul Winning is the mission of all ministries - There is a difference in teaching and training. Teaching is to give instructions from your head to their heads. Training is to give instructions from your hands to their hands. Train your Deaf people and your Deaf workers to become fishers of Deaf people. Train them to become soul-winners. Take them visiting with you. Teach and train the deaf to reach the Deaf. It is hard to build a Deaf ministry without good Deaf leaders as Christian examples. Make soul-winning part of your teaching and training program. Seek help from your pastor and leaders for methods that work. Teach and train your people to witness, and present the Gospel to others. This is the first goal of a good Deaf ministry. Soul Winning - Jesus loved the unsaved and wanted them to be saved. You need to follow the example of Jesus and go to the lost. If Christians do not witness to the unsaved, they will die without Jesus and go to Hell. Did you know that many, many Deaf people die every day? Many have never known one time how to be saved. Deaf people also have feelings. They hurt, love and also have a soul. Deaf people cannot hear, but they are not spiritually or mentally handicapped. Who cares for the Souls of Deaf People? Hell is an awful place and Jesus does not want any person to go to the terrible place of Hell. Do you care? Your friends and loved ones need to be saved. Will you help the Deaf to understand the Gospel and the Bible? Will you teach and train the Deaf to become leaders and soul-winners? Help the Deaf to understand with your signing hands.

A Signing Hand I watched the faces, and did not understand, then, I was enlightened by a signing hand. The confusion slowly faded away, as the clouds on a clearing day. I gladly watched the signing hand, and smiled...because now I understand. -- Ted Camp

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Bible Example of Soul-Winning Jesus said, "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you" [John 20: 21]. Jesus wants to send you to help your friends, family and the people where you work. Jesus is now in Heaven and He wants you to go for Him to unsaved people. Start now and witness to your family and your friends about the Lord. Tell them about Jesus dying for their sins. Invite them to church with you. You need to witness to people in grocery stores, service stations, post office, and people you meet every day. Will you go for? Will you accept your place and position of responsibility to reach the Deaf in your area for God?

Go, Sign to Them for Me “Master, What shall I do today? Where shall I go for thee?" And He pointed to the deaf people, "Go Sign to Them for Me." "Oh no, not there! No one will notice and see. I must learn Signs - - no, it isn't fair. Oh no, not the deaf world for me.” As He spoke I began to understand, "Search your heart and use your hands. I died for you on Calvary. So, go sign to them for Me."

-- Ted Camp, SWM

Soul Winners Compared to Sowers Soul winners are also compared to sowers who sow seeds into the ground. They are to sow the seed of the Word of God into the hearts of lost people. The need is to sow the seed. The emphasize is not placed upon the sower but the seed. When the seed remains in the barn or bag it will never produce fruit. There are times to break up hard ground, remove weeds, and rocks so you can sow your seed into good ground. The seed will bring forth results. Remember you sow, but the Lord saves! Hearing people who learn Sign Language also become responsible for the Deaf in their area. Deaf Christians are also responsible for the Deaf who are not saved in their area. Hearing people who do not know Sign Language, do not think about the spiritual needs of Deaf people. God calls some to give their hearts and hands to reach the Deaf for Him. God does not call everyone, but He does call some. God sends certain ones just for the purpose of reaching the Deaf for Him. God cares about the Deaf so He sends someone to represent Him. Soul Winning involves Christians going to the lost with the Word of God. The great need is for the seed to be planted in the hearts of unsaved people. The Need is Seed -- No Seeds - No Souls!

Soul Winners Compared to Fishermen Soul winning is compared to fishing. “Follow Me - I will make you to become fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). Christian fishermen go to catch fish (souls) for the Lord. You do not fish in a bath tub, but you must go to the fish. You also must use the right bait (Bible) to catch souls. There are many Deaf people who have never known about Jesus Christ. Who will help them understand? It is sad, but only a few witness to the Deaf. It seems there are many interpreters, teachers, but only a few to soulwinners. Someone needs to go to the Deaf using Sign Language. Luke 5: 4-11 - The Lord knows the good fishing holes. “Let down nets for lots of fish.” They fished all night and caught nothing, but Peter obeyed the Lord and cast his nets again. Soon they caught many fish that almost broke the nets. The Lord knows where to find the fish. John 21:3 - Peter saith, I go a fishing...Disciples with him...fished all night caught nothing... In morning Jesus was on shore. Jesus asked, “Have any meat (fish)?” They answered, “No!” Jesus told them to cast nets over other side...they caught 153 fish which could have represented all the different nations and cultures at that time in history. The Lord called His disciples to be fishers of men. Remember, to catch fish you must go to the lakes, streams and rivers. Also you must have the right bait or lure. You do not use a gun but a fishing rod. You need the right lure.

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Catch Different Fish Different Ways You use different lures and bait for different kinds of fish. You use worms for brim, cut liver for catfish, minnows for crappie and lures for bass. Christians need to use common sense and wisdom in how they approach and witness to people. Each person and family is different, be prepared to switch ways or bait for each person. Remember, you catch different fish in different ways. You must fish differently for brim, catfish or bass. All three require different bait and methods. The Bible is the best bait to use in soul-winning.

Christians Need to Fish for Men All people are saved with the same Word of God, but all people are caught differently. Each fish is different and responds to different lures, bait, or even worms. A good fisherman learns how to fish for the certain fish. Sometimes you need to fish at night, in the shade, shallow water, deep water, from the bank or from a boat. You need to think and prepare before you go fishing. Are you going to fish for brim, perch, crappie, pike, catfish, or bass? You will need different rigs and bait for each type of fish. With some you may need a floater, sinker, or plastic worm. With others you can fish with traps, seining, nets or trot lines. There are many different ways to fish for many different fish. If you fish for bass you need to use lures, rubber worms or rigs to attract bass. Study the nature of each kind of fish and learn what lures them. The more you fish the more you learn how to fish. It is amazing how some can catch fish, and some never catch fish but just watch others do it. 1. You need the Right Bait and a Good Reel - The Bible is the right bait and the Holy Spirit is the Reel. Go fishing for man with your Bible and God. 2. Many Different Kinds of Fish - Each person is different. You must use different bait for bass and catfish. You use wisdom with different people. Some rich, poor, young and old but all need to be saved. 3. You Must Fish Where Fish are Located - You must go from the church to catch fish. Fish at your job, school, bowling, fellowships and with family. Go to where the fish are located. You don’t fish in a bath tub. You must go where there are fish. Usually, fish are not in church. 4. Obey the Master Fisherman - You can be a like Peter and fish all night and still catch nothing. As Peter, you can have a good boat, lures and reel and still catch nothing. You are to fish whether you catch or do not catch. Why? One day you may catch a big one as Andrew caught his brother, Peter. As Andrew, bring your family to the Lord. You must obey the Master and go where He sends you. He knows the best fishing holes. 5. Neglect is the Problem - It is sad that some people have never caught any souls. They do not even try to fish for people. They neglect the Great Commission and let others fish for them. You need to go fishing for souls. There is joy in catching fish. One day you might catch a great big one! 6. You are Responsible - One day the Lord will ask you, “Children have you any meat (fish)?” If you have caught fish, He will say, “Well done my good and faithful servant (fisherman).” 7. The Rewards of Fishing - In soul-winning all the fish you catch are “keepers.” Some laws do not permit you to keep small fish, but with God, every soul is important. All are keepers for eternity. When you win a soul you have won them for all eternity.

If you want to catch fish you must go where the fish are located. Fish will not come to you but you must go to them! Remember, the greatest need of a deaf person is not to hear, but to be saved...in Heaven they will hear forever! So, let’s go fishing for deaf souls.

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Witness Into All The Deaf World “All” Includes The Deaf World This does not mean that everyone should go to Africa, but it does mean to witness in your daily world. Witness on your job, or at school, stores, or any place where you meet people. Witness means to share with others something that has happened to you. You can witness to others about Jesus Christ. You can witness to others about how you were saved. You tell others what Jesus did for you. If you have been saved then you should witness and tell others about it. Witness that you are now a Christian. God has changed your life. Every day you should be conscious of those you meet and be open to be a witness. It is the responsibility of all Christians, especially deaf Christians to witness to other deaf people. Ask the Lord to give you a special burden for the Deaf in your area. How many deaf are in your area? Ask the Deaf for names of other deaf in the area. Send special letters with tracts. If you reach them who will? Ask the Lord to help you evangelize your area.

How To Witness For Christ First, you must control the conversation to slowly lead to an open opportunity to witness. Do not be in a hurry. Take time to be friendly. You win them to you and then win them to Christ. Let the Holy Spirit help you know the right time to witness or present the Gospel. This means that you must know the Gospel. Use the Bible to present the Gospel or spiritual needs. The Bible is the authority. “No one is saved without the Gospel!

Examples: Good Openings - Introductions (Written to Sign - After each opening present the Gospel) 1. To Friend - “I your friend, I am Christian. I have been thinking about you. I have not visited. I apologize not visiting. I need ask question as a burdened friend. “You Christian? If died today - Go Heaven? Why?" 2. To Anyone - “If I insurance salesman you would expect me to sell insurance. I am not an insurance salesman, but I am a Christian and it is my responsibility as a friend to ask you important question. Are you a Christian? If you died today - you go to Heaven? Why?" 3. To Religious Unsaved People - “There are many different churches but only one Gospel, one Heaven, One God and one way to Heaven. Jesus Christ died for all people, and if you died, God not ask name of your church. I want to meet you in Heaven. If you died today, you go to Heaven? Why?” Then present the Gospel. 4. To Deaf - “God burden my heart for deaf. I want to meet you in Heaven. Do you know sure you finished saved? If you died today, you go Heaven? Why?” Then present the Gospel. 5. To Everyone - “I talked to you about sports, weather and many other things, but now I want to talk to you about the most important thing in life. If you died today, would you go to Heaven? Why?”

Closing - Once you have their attention present the Gospel quickly and clearly. Let others take care of any distractions. You need to plant the seed. It is important to draw the net and catch the fish. Give an invitation for them to pray and accept Jesus Christ (John 1:12). If they say no then give them a tract and close in prayer. Do not pressure. Invite them to visit your church. Never be unkind or rude. Remember that you are a guest in their home. Always Smile as you leave. Remember, “A smile is understood in all languages” – Mark Twain.

Rules For A Church Invitation First train helpers to assist as needed in invitations. The Interpreter should never stop interpreting. Interpreter must remain before deaf as others may need to respond 1. Interpreter never closes eyes unless preacher does as he prays. 2. Do not sign for the deaf to bow their heads. 2. Have someone else greet those who come forward. 3. Greet them and ask, “Why did you come?” Let them tell you! 4. Use Scriptures – Present Gospel or Spiritual needs – Pray with them. 5. Have the person testify to leader or pastor with an interpreter. 6. Give follow-up literature and plan to visit. 7. Have others fellowship and rejoice with them about their decision.

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Bible Example of Soul Winning “And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip... And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority... had come to Jerusalem for to worship...sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran...and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? ...Then Philip...preached unto him Jesus... they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God... they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:26-39).

Four things Involved in Soul Winning 1. A Christian with a zeal and burden - Philip. 2. An unsaved person who has a desire to know God - Eunuch. 3. The Holy Spirit directing the Christian to unsaved person. 4. The Word of God will give open hearts to their need of the Lord.

Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man answered, "How can I except some man guide me.” People need to understand to be be saved. Philip used the Word of God to help the man understand. Also the man had a desire to know God. You cannot help someone who does not believe the Bible. The Word of God may be planted, but it must be received to produce fruit. Christians should know the Bible and use it. No one is saved without the Word of God. No one!

A Witness Into The Deaf World The Eunuch is a picture of the deaf world that needs to understand. “How can I know except some man guide me?” Deaf people, as the hearing, can only know what they have been told. It is hard for deaf people to understand the Gospel on TV or radio as hearing people do. It is hard for deaf people to understand many books, or literature. It is hard for some deaf people to understand the King James language because it is not their language. American Sign Language is their first language and English is a secondary language. It is also hard for some deaf people to understand other Bibles not written for Deaf culture. Hispanics have Bibles translated for them so they can understand the Bible in their language. Sign language is a language the same as Spanish is a language. It is a signed, not spoken language. Some pastors, leaders and workers never understand that the Deaf is the same as a foreign ministry because of a different language and culture. It is sad that some parents, family and friends of Deaf people never learn Sign Language. The school system is not permitted to teach about creation, the Bible or God. How can Deaf people know unless someone tells them? It is hard for hearing people to clearly communicate to Deaf people. The need is for someone to go into the Deaf world and help them understand the Gospel. Deaf people can witness to Deaf people in their language and world. Deaf people have a soul and need to be saved. Again, “The greatest need of a deaf person is not to hear, but to be saved.” If he is saved he will hear forever in Heaven. When one deaf boy was asked the name of his sister he answered, “I don’t know. No one told me.” Deaf only know what they have been taught. Will you tell (sign) to the Deaf about Jesus? So on that day they cannot point at you and say, “Why didn’t you tell me?” There are deaf people in every city that need to be saved. Lift up your eyes and look at all the deaf who need to be saved. Your hands can give God’s Word to the Deaf. “How shall they hear without a preacher?” Deaf people listen with their eyes. Sign Language becomes a voice they hear with their eyes. In Heaven God will wipe away all tears and all things will become new. In Heaven there is no more disease, or deafness. In Heaven there will be no more lip-reading, or interpreters. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

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A Dedicated Witness into the Deaf World The Holy Spirit joins the Christian (Philip) and the lost person (Eunuch) together for the purpose of witnessing. Philip was willing to go, he “ran” to the chariot. Notice the words “This chariot.” There were many other chariots, but only one had a man with a desire to be saved. Think of all the other people Philip passed as he ran to the chariot. The Holy Spirit knows who needs and desires to be saved. A dedicated witness is willing to go anytime or anyplace as the Holy Spirit directs. There are times that the Holy Spirit touches a Christian's heart and compels him to witness or give a tract. All Christians, as Philip, should be willing to go into the word and be a witness. The Holy Spirit will direct a dedicated witness to the hungry hearts of a lost world. The Lord knows those who have a hunger in their hearts for salvation. Only He can fill the hungry souls and give them everlasting peace. Only God can give peace within the souls of man (Romans 5:1).

The Divine Word into the Deaf World Philip did not give his opinions. He read unto the man the Word of God. He climbed next to him and showed him what the Bible means. The man understood and wanted immediately to be saved and baptized. There is no substitute for the Word of God. The Bible is powerful and alive to convict the sinner. Without the Word there will be no work. Once the man understood the Word of God, he responded to his need. His need was God. Only God can satisfy the longing, hungry soul. “For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness” (Psalm 107:9). Be sure to use the Word of God in witnessing. The Scriptures can soften a hard heart, melt an icy stare and break down stubborn pride. Only the Word of God can change lives.

Review: The Things Needed in Soul-Winning 1. A Christian with a zeal and burden – Philip. 2. An unsaved person who has a desire to know God - Eunuch. 3. The Holy Spirit directing the Christian to unsaved person. 4. The Word of God will give open hearts to their need of the Lord.

Must Understand Gospel - Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man answered, "How can I except some man guide me.” People need to understand to be be saved. Philip used the Word of God to help the man understand. No one is saved without the Gospel. Understand Sin - All people have sin and all people need to be saved. People do not become sinners. They are born sinners. All are sinners by birth from Adam and Eve. All includes all Deaf, hearing, poor, rich, young and old. “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.” --Romans 5:12 Understand the Gospel - All people who die in sin (without Christ) will go to Hell. “And in Hell he lift up his eyes” (Luke 16:23). There is a Hell! There is a Heaven! There are only two groups of people (1) Those “in Christ.” (2) Those “without Christ.” All “without Christ” are not saved! When you understand the Gospel that that Jesus Christ died as a sacrifice for your sin, He was buried as your substitute for death, He arose from the grave as Saviour. He is is now alive to save all who will believe and receive Him (John 1:12). “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever (all) believeth in him should not perish (in Hell), but have everlasting life (in Heaven).” -- John 3:16 Understand It is Your Personal Decision - God will not force anyone to be saved. The Eunuch wanted to be saved. Everyone must want to be saved. They must say yes to God. No person can decide for you. It is a personal choice. Your mother or dad, husband or wife or preacher cannot decide for you. God in Heaven gave His Son, Jesus, to die for you, but you must personally receive the gift of God (Romans 6:23). No one can decide for you. It is your personal choice. If you are not saved then it is your fault. You can be saved. God has given everyone the freedom of choice. God has never forced anyone against their will – Never!

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What About the Deaf In Your Area? Each person and family is different, so be prepared to switch methods and ways for each person. All people are saved with the same Word of God, but all people are different. You need to become a soul-winner and help your Deaf friends become fishers of Deaf people. Make it a goal to reach all the Deaf in your city with the Gospel. Tract Ministry - Use tracts written for the Deaf. Use good visual pictures or charts. You can give hearing people tracts written from the Deaf. Some tracts will teach about church membership, baptism and doctrines. Silent Word Ministries has free tracts for the Deaf. Send for sample tracts that Deaf can give to both the hearing and deaf world. Always leave a tract on the restaurant table with a good tip. Leave tracts wherever you feel would be a good place for people to get or read. Leave tracts in rest areas, booths, restrooms and public places.

How to Lead a Deaf Person to Christ When you have opportunity you should present the Gospel. After you have presented the Gospel be sure to go all the way and give them an invitation to be saved. Ask, “You want pray now accept Jesus?” Explain that "God in Heaven now wants you to be saved.” He is not going to come down or send an angel, but He has someone like me to tell you how to be saved. God is now in Heaven waiting for you to say yes. You do not pray to me. You pray to God. Let me help you. I want to meet you in Heaven. Let me explain to you what the Bible says about Salvation.” Explain in Sign Language: “God made a way for you to be saved - God created the heaven and the earth and He also made a man and woman. Adam did not obey God and made all people sinners. God made a way for you to be forgiven and saved...a way that you can be saved and go to Heaven. God made man different than the animals. You have an eternal soul that will never die. You body will die, but not your soul. You are a soul with a body, not a body with a soul.” Your body will be placed in a grave but your soul will still live. You will live after you die in either Heaven or Hell. Man Different Than Animals - Man is different than animals. Man was made in the likeness of God. Man has an eternal soul that will never die. A man can think (mind), know (heart), and decide (will). God made Adam and Eve and all people were born from them. Eve is the mother of all living. Adam lived in the Garden of Eden. Adam was different than animals. Adam knew what right and what was wrong. God personally commanded Adam not to eat from one tree. Eve later was tempted by the Devil. She took of the fruit and gave the fruit to Adam. Adam ate of it and disobeyed God. Sin then entered the world. Now all have sin because of Adam. All have inherited the curse of sin from Adam. Because of Adam all people have sin. You have sin. You do wrong. Why? Because Adam sinned all people have sin that needs to be cleansed. The DNA of sin is passed unto all mankind from Adam. "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men (people), for that all have sinned." -- Romans 5:12

Jesus came to die for your sins. Jesus Christ was the sacrifice for sin on the cross. He became your substitute for death in the grave. He rose from the grave as Saviour. The Gospel is called the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He was the last sacrifice for sin. He is now alive to save you. You can pray and be saved! God will clean your heart. Only God could create the heaven and earth and only God can save you. Today, God only sees two groups of people. Those “in Christ” and those “without Christ.” All people who are saved are “In Christ.” Are you “in Christ?” "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son (Jesus), that whosoever believeth in him (Jesus) should not perish, but have everlasting life." – John 3:16

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Good Questions to Ask the Deaf Note: Text is written to be easily signed – Also you can sign (?) instead of ask.

1. What sin? 2. Who sin? 3. Why all people sin? 4. How person forgiven sin and saved? 5. You have sin. You finished saved - Forgiven sin? Why?

Important: Do not ask yes or no questions, but have them tell you in their own words what or who they are trusting for salvation. Example: Ask, “Are you saved?” They will sign yes. Ask the question. Why? Listen carefully for a good Bible answer. Sometimes they will answer, baptism, church, different religion. There are many different religions, but there is only one Gospel. Explain: “I am sorry – baptism - church not save you.” “Only Christ save you.” Be prepared to explain with Scriptures. Seek Right Answers – Ask (?): "If you died now, would you go to Heaven?" Ask Why? (Right answer) “I go Heaven, because I pray and accept Jesus Christ.” If they are not sure or don't know. Ask, "Did you pray - accept Jesus as in John 1:12?” Explain - God promises if you accept Jesus Christ you now born in family of God. You saved according to Bible. God cannot lie! You can believe promises of God! The Bible is true! Draw The Net – Ask (?): "Do you want pray with me now - be saved? You can now pray - be saved. Only God can create the heaven and earth. Only God can save you. God understands Sign Language. You are my deaf friend. I want meet you Heaven.” Pause - look them in the eyes - Ask, “(?) You want pray with me - be saved, now?” If they sign Yes then lead in prayer. Tell them copy and pray with me. Sign “Copy me now!” (Keep your eyes open as you pray). Pray (copy Signs): “Dear God, I don’t want Hell - I want Heaven. I now want Jesus Christ save me - forgive my sins. I now accept Jesus. I believe Jesus died for my sin, rose and lives now as Saviour to save me. I believe and receive Him to save me. I now saved.” Amen! Salvation Assurance - After they finish praying Ask: "If you died now where would you go?" If they answer "Heaven." Ask: "Why?" The correct answer is “Jesus Christ saved me.” Explain to them that according to the Word of God they are now saved. Point again to John 1:12: “To as many as received Him...” “Did you receive Jesus? You saved according to the Bible. God cannot lie!” Ask (?) - “You pray and receive Jesus?” When they answer “yes,” then tell them “God cannot lie You now have eternal life. I will meet you Heaven” (John 10:28). Explain - Saved is one time. It is finished saved. You cannot saved again and again. You born once in human family – Once in God's family. God will remember you prayed – accepted Jesus. Your name now written in Heaven. God cannot lie. He promise you Eternal Life in Heaven (John 10:28). Sign Excitedly - "Now, I meet you Heaven." When you die future, God remember your prayer. You died God say, “Mine! Come up with me.” Sign, "I happy you finished saved." Shake hands or hug them. Encourage them to tell others that they are now “finished saved.” Follow Up - Give them literature and plan to pick them up or invite them to come to church. Continue to visit and teach them what they need to do after they are saved. Invite them to a meal at your house. Give them literature to study and let them ask questions. Teach them about baptism, church, and following the Lord. The first step after salvation is baptism. As children, they need to learn and grown. Pray with them and become their friend in the Lord. SWM has follow-up materials and discipleship programs.

Visit: follow8steps.org

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Disciple Deaf To Reach The Deaf A discipleship program was introduced by the Lord Jesus Christ. He taught His disciples so they could teach others. It is a one-on-one program to help young Christians grow in the Word of God. The goal is that one day the disciple will become the teacher. For many years cults have used literature with great success. This type program is used to establish strong churches on the mission field, it is used with prisoners in jail, and it should be used in our church ministries, and Deaf ministries. It is a great tool to help Christians become strong and mature in the Word of God. No one can grow without the Word of God - No one! The Discipleship Program of God. The Lord asked the disciples to come and then after three years He told them to go and teach others. This is God’s only program. Remember, it took the Lord three years to disciple others, so be patient and continue to disciple until they are able to disciple others. You need to develop a good discipleship program to develop leaders. Be sure that deaf people understand that they must be qualified with Bible and church standards. After you train them then you are ready to go to the next level. Establishing a ministry that involves Deaf people who also become active in ministry. Be willing to step back and let Deaf people do the ministry. Remember, it is a deaf ministry! Train Deaf to become leaders who will train others to become leaders.

Teach Deaf to Reach Deaf The world does not care how much you know, until they know that you care!

The Goal of a Deaf Ministry It is good to take care of those who come to church, but the great need is for those in the church to go to those outside your church. Train deaf people and deaf workers to become fishers of deaf people. Take them visiting with you. This will require discipleship and training in soul-winning. Teach deaf to reach the Deaf. It is hard to build a deaf ministry without good deaf leaders. Know Your City - How many deaf live in your city? Who is ministering to them? How can you reach them? What other churches have deaf ministries? Do not plan to have a hundred deaf if only ten live in your city. If there are five hundred deaf, then plan to have one hundred. Some major cities have thousands of deaf people. Know your city and reach your city’s deaf. Visitation Programs - You need a planned visitation program. Prepare before you meet with those visiting. Pray with your teams before they leave and ask God’s blessings upon the visitation. Assign cards for visitation. Train workers to keep a positive attitude on visitation. A visitation programs is fulfilling the Great Commission. Train the Deaf to Visit - A deaf person is more effective because they understand the deaf. Guidelines: Do not over visit or offend people. Do not gossip. Visitation should create a desire to draw them to church. Plan the routes and times of day to visit. Visit shut-ins during day. Visit working people Saturdays. Have teams return cards and reports. Most deaf visitors who visit you ministry are invited by a deaf friend or family member. Encourage your deaf to bring their deaf friends. Record Your Visits - Write down your thoughts and prospects for the people. Have prayer in the home before you leave. After you leave, write a report of the visit on the visitation card. How many deaf are in the home? Do they need transportation? Do they need another visit. Do they attend church? What church? Pray for those you visited. Do you have a visitation plan? Are you visiting the Deaf in your area? Are you teaching the deaf to reach the Deaf?

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How To Evangelize Your Area What Does Evangelize Mean? Evangelize means to present the Gospel to those who are without Christ. Evangelize is to witness about Jesus Christ to those who do not know him. Pastors teach and preach to the church, teachers teach to Christians within the church, and missionaries go to other countries to preach the Gospel and teach them about Jesus Christ. (Mark 16:15). A called Evangelist is someone who preaches the Gospel outside the church or revival within the church. He may conduct crusades and conferences on soul-winning. Also an evangelist is someone who evangelizes or witnesses to those outside the church. An evangelist can be any christian who witnesses to others with the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. When you evangelize an area it means that your goal is to present the Gospel to all the deaf people in your city or county. It is the duty of all Christians to be a witness for Christ in all places in the world. You are first a witness then you become a soul-winner as the doors open to present the Gospel. Most people saved today are saved by evangelism outside the church. Most people who come to church come because a friend invited them. One of the greatest needs today is for “more” Christians to “witness” for Christ to those who are without Christ. The greatest testimony to the world is a changed and consistent Christian who witnesses for Christ! Evangelize Your City - God’s plan to reach the world involves preaching and teaching. Deaf people need the Word of God in their language and culture. Without the Word of God there is no Work of God. The Word of God can penetrate where no missionary can go; it can speak when other voices are silent; it can remain when Christians leave the area. The Word of God is our authority. Your goal is to build an abiding ministry. Teach and train the deaf to reach the deaf. 1. Preach the Gospel.

2. Teach them.

3. Train disciples.

You goal is to help the Deaf to be saved so they hear forever in Heaven. Help the Deaf to know names are written in the Book of life (Revelation 20:15). Will you witness to someone this week? Will you give out some tracts today? Ask the Lord to give you a burden to reach the deaf in your area. Note: SWM has tracts especially for the deaf and also tracts written for the deaf to give to hearing people. All SWM tracts are “free” as the Lord provides. Send for a free sample or visit: SilentWordMinistries.org. If they do not understand the way you sign then sign the way they understand. If they do not understand the way you teach then teach the way they understand. If they do not understand the way you interpret then interpret the way they understand.

Don’t Put Down People With Disabilities “Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumblingblock before the blind, but shalt fear thy God: I am the Lord.” – Leviticus 19:14

As a pastor with a deaf ministry I wondered what this verse actually meant, “Thou shalt not curse the deaf.” I learned the word “curse” does not mean the same as the word “curse” in this generation. It means “To... make light of... Put down... overlook... shun... snub... or treat as trivial or unimportant.” Curse also refers to an attitude towards people with disabilities. Notice it says, “Curse (use words cannot hear) the deaf... stumblingblock (they cannot see) before blind.” As an illustration, I dropped a penny on the floor and viewed it as unimportant and worthless. I explained at one time, I picked up pennies, but now I simply “make light of them” as worthless. God’s people should not “curse” the deaf or “make light of them... treat them as unimportant or worthless.” I have been told that some churches put the deaf into a side room with a speaker, away from the congregation. Some put the deaf in the balcony where no one can see them. I have been told that some churches stuff them into small side classes, and leave the deaf out of church socials and fellowships. The Lord never made light of or treated anyone as t worthless. In Mark 7:32, the Lord personally took time to help a deaf person. He did not pass him by as a worthless penny. As a pastor, I want our church to always respect those who others may treat as a worthless penny. Someone may appear to be worthless to others, but everyone is important and valuable to the Lord. (SWM FS Lecture by Pastor John Smith, PGBC, Trenton, Georgia)

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There is Only One Gospel There are many different churches, but only one Gospel. Many people join different religions, but there is only one Gospel. The Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other Gospel. “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed” --Galatians 1:8-9.

There is Only One Saviour There are many different leaders, but only one Saviour. Many follow Mohammed, Joseph Smith, Mary Baker Eddy, and many others, but there is only one Saviour from God. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man (you) cometh unto the Father, but by me (Jesus).” --John 14:6 “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name (Jesus) under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” -- Acts 4:12

There is Only One way to Heaven There are many different ways that may seem right, but there is only one way to Heaven. Millions of people are following the broad way that leads to destruction. They think they are going to Heaven, but they are deceived. A false way will only lead to destruction and death (Hell). You cannot go to Heaven by traveling the wrong way. When you die, God will not come down and ask the name of your church or religion. God does not ask, “Are you Baptist, Lutheran, Catholic, Jew, JW, Mormon, or Islam?” Many different ways may seem right, but they can be wrong. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death (destruction).” -- Proverbs 14:12

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Four Things Needed To Be Saved 1. All Have Sin - All people have sinned and all people need to be saved. You do not become a sinner. You are born a sinner. Every one is a sinner by birth from Adam and Eve. “Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned” (Romans 5:12). All have sinned. This includes all deaf, hearing, young or old. This means that all people have sin. This means you have sin. 2. Punishment of Sin - Sin must be judged or punished. All people “without Christ” will go to Hell. The Bible tells a story of a man who died and went to Hell. “And in Hell he lift up his eyes” (Luke 16:23). There is a Hell and there is a Heaven. Only saved people go to Heaven, and all who are not saved go to Hell. Saved means saved from Hell. A person is saved when he understands the Gospel, that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died for his sins and in his place. Jesus arose from the grave and is now alive to forgive sins. All people who are not saved will go to Hell. God does not send people to Hell. They have the choice to be saved or not to be saved. The Gospel can be found in one verse; “For God so loved the world (you), that he gave his only begotten Son (Jesus), that whosoever (all) believeth in him should not perish (in Hell), but have everlasting life (in Heaven)” (John 3:16). This means that all people without Jesus Christ will be punished in Hell. If you do not accept Jesus Christ for your place. 3. Jesus Christ Is The Way To Heaven - Why did Jesus Christ come to this world? The answer is to seek and save people who are lost (Luke 19:10). God only has one way for sins to be forgiven. He gave His Son for your sins. Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). There is no other name or person who can save you, “ Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). All people “In Christ” are saved. No one can go to Heaven without Jesus Christ - No One! 4. Every Person Has the Freedom to Choose - God does not force anyone to be saved. You must want to be saved. You must say “yes” to God. It is your decision. Your mother or dad, husband or wife or preacher cannot decide for you. You were born alone, you will die alone and you will meet God alone. There comes a time when you understand the Gospel. After you understand, the Holy Spirit puts a desire within your heart to be saved. God gave His Son to die for you, but you must receive Him as a gift of God. Jesus Christ is a free gift from God.“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” (John 1:12). You are saved after you understand the Gospel. The need is to believe (Gospel) and receive Christ!

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How To Explain The Roman's Road to the Deaf [This is not written in proper English to be read but it written to be signed to the Deaf]

1. Romans 3:10,23 - “As it is written (Bible says), There is (Truly) none righteous (person), no, not one (person). For (Because) all (every person) have (finished) sinned, and come short of (can’t reach - touch) the *glory of God” *Glory God means God’s righteousness, holiness, and perfection. 2. Romans 5:12 - “Wherefore (Because), as by (of) one man (Adam) sin entered into the world (began on earth), and *death by (through) sin; and so (true) *death passed (given out) upon (to) all men (people), for that (because) all (people) have (finished) sinned.” *Death means body and spirit - Eternal in Hell - Separation from God. 3. Romans 6:23 - “For (Because) the wages (cost) of sin is death (Hell); but the gift (free gift) of (from) God is *eternal life (Heaven) through Jesus Christ (Son of God) our Lord.” *Eternal means forever in Heaven. Eternal, forever, everlasting, and eternity are the same. 4. Romans 10:9-10,13 – “That if thou (you) shalt (will) confess with thy (your) mouth (or sign to God) the Lord Jesus, and shalt (will) believe in thine (your) heart that God hath (finished) raised (resurrected) him from the dead, thou (you) shalt (will) be saved (from Hell). For (Because) with the heart man (people) believeth unto (and become) righteousness (right with God); and with the mouth (or signs) confession is made unto salvation (Admit you are sinner) For whosoever (any person) shall (will) *call upon the name of the Lord shall (will) be (become) saved (from Hell)” *Call means pray to God from heart, to confess and repent sin, to accept Jesus Christ. Conclusion – Sign with me... “Understand you pray to God. God understand Signs and heart. God loves you. God wants you Heaven. God not want you Hell. I want meet you Heaven. You pray with me (copy) signs saved. You want Heaven? You want pray with me? You want accept Jesus save you? [ ]Yes [ ]No.

Pray (Please copy) “I not want Hell. I want Heaven. I sorry for my sins. I now want saved. I believe Jesus died for my sins. I believe Jesus rose from grave forgive me. I accept Jesus save me in Heaven. I now saved - Amen. I am now saved!” Name _________________________ Date Saved ______________ Comments ___________________________________________________________________.

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How To Pray For A Deaf Harvest By Ted Camp, SWM As we begin a new year, I feel that we should really pray together for a harvest in the deaf world in 2011. Sometimes we try to do too much and forget that it is not our harvest but that God is the Lord of the harvest. The disciples did not have authority to send but only to pray. The Lord said that the first great need is to pray for the harvest, instead of trying to produce a harvest. This year will you join with me to pray for a deaf harvest? “But when he saw the multitudes (of deaf people), he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples. The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” -- Matthew 9:36-38

It is not your or our place to seek or try to send more deaf workers, but we are to pray the Lord will send more workers into the (Deaf) harvest. The world is the field, but different harvests are reaped in different nations. The Lord sends forth servants into the many different harvest fields of the world. Notice what the Lord did not say. He did not say... “Pray for the lost deaf to be saved.” “Pray for God to bless them.” “Pray for the Deaf.” “Pray for more workers.” “Pray for more interpreters.” “Pray for more deaf missionaries, pastors and teachers.” “Pray for all the deaf to become as one nation and culture.” “Pray for more deaf churches and deaf ministries.” This is what He did not say, but what did He say to pray for? Let's study the verses carefully to better understand how we should pray for a Deaf harvest. 1. First see the great harvest field. Visualize many deaf without a shepherd. 2. See the many deaf without Christ, without hope and in need of help. 3. What you see with your eyes should affect your heart of compassion. 4. Let compassion move you to do something about what you see. 5. Notice the Lord presented the great harvest potential to his disciples. 6. He revealed to His disciples that the harvest is great but the workers are few. 7. He did not send them but told them to first pray to the Lord of the harvest. 8. He asked them to pray the Lord would send more workers into His harvest. 9. The request was to pray to the Lord to send workers into the Deaf harvest.

Pray the Lord will send more workers into harvest fields. Pray that more will respond to serve Him. I want to encourage all, both deaf and hearing, who see the multitudes of deaf who are without Christ to look upon the fields that are white unto harvest. I want to encourage both deaf and hearing who are touched with compassion for the deaf to consider doing more to reach the Deaf for Christ. Pray with me for two things: Challenge One - Pray the Lord to give a deaf harvest. Will you make a promise to pray me for one year? If both hearing and deaf will join together to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send forth more workers, He promises He will do it. If we don't pray, the number of workers will remain few. The fields are “white” ready to reap. If the fields remain unreaped, there will be no harvest. We must pray! Challenge Two – Respond to the Lord - Will you lift up your eyes and look upon the deaf fields? As you look with your eyes, the Lord will touch your heart. Will you respond or recommit your heart and hands to be used of the Lord in the Deaf harvest? Naturally, a deaf person can best preach, teach and witness to other deaf, but hearing people are also needed to be interpreters, teachers, helpers and workers in the deaf harvest. All are needed as the harvest is ready for reaping. God does not send everyone to the deaf harvest, but He does send some. We need more workers (both deaf and hearing) to respond as preachers, missionaries, teachers, interpreters, servants, friends, and Christians to help in the deaf harvest. One - As God sends you, will you now respond and become a servant to reap in the harvest of deaf souls for Him? [ ] “Yes, God has called me into the deaf harvest. I now respond to Him and ask Him to use me.” Two - Commit to pray for a deaf harvest this year. [ ]”Yes, I see the need of a great harvest in the deaf world. I now join with you to pray that the Lord will send more workers and that more workers will respond. Encourage your Deaf ministry to also pray for a Harvest in the Deaf World

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“Follow Me - I will make you to become fishers of men.” – Mark 1:17 Forsake to Follow 1. 2. 3. 4.

Left Nets Left boats Left Father/Mother Left plans for future

When you follow - You must forsake! Luke 5: 4 -11 - The Lord knows the good fishing places - “Let down nets for lots of fish.” They fished all night caught nothing. Peter obeyed the Lord and cast the nets again. Soon caught many fish almost broke nets. Jesus said, “In future you will catch men.” Christians are to be “fishers” of men! John 21:3 - Peter saith, I go a fishing... Disciples with him... fished all night caught nothing... In morning Jesus was on shore. Jesus asked, “Have any meat (fish)?” They answered, “No!” Jesus told them to cast nets over other side...they caught 153 fish. When you are obedient to the Great Commission you will catch “fish” or souls. Christians should follow the Lord and become “fishers” of souls!

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Silent Word Ministries P.O. Box 889 Trenton, Georgia 30752

HOW TO COUNSEL WITH THE BIBLE All Bible counsel must be based upon the Word of God, that God is good (Psalm 73:1), He makes no mistakes (Job 34:12), and He is working all things together for good (Romans 8:28). Christians have hope but there is no hope for those not saved (1Thess. 4:13). PROBLEM

BIBLE ANSWER

ANGER COMFORT DISCOURAGEMENT ETERNAL LIFE FEAR FORGIVENESS GUIDANCE GUILT HEAVEN JOY LONELINESS LUST PEACE PATIENCE PROVISION SALVATION SEXUAL SINS SHAME SIN STRENGTH SUFFERING TEMPTATION UNCERTAINTY VICTORY WORRY

Eph. 4:26; Rom. 12:17-21; James 1:19,20 Isaiah 40:10; Psalm 73:23,24; Psalm 23 John 16:33; Galatians 6:9; 2 Thess. 2:16,17 John 10:28; John 6:47; John 3:16 Isaiah 41:13; Proverbs 3:25,26; Psalm 46:1 Psalm 32:5; I John 1:9; Psalm 103:12-14 Psalm 32:8; John 14:26; Psalm 119:105 Psalm 32:1-5; Psalm 51:1-14; Romans 8:1 John 14:1-3; I John 3:2; I Thess. 4:16,17 John 15:10,11; Philippians 4:4; Psalm 16:11 Hebrews 13:5,6; Rom. 8:38,39 Psalm 27:10 James 1:14,15; 2 Tim. 2:22; Romans 13:14 Isaiah 26:3; Rom. 5:1; Philippians 4:6,7 Galatians 6:9; 1 Peter 2:20; James 1:2-4 Isaiah 40:28-31; I Peter 3:12; Phil. 4:19 John 1:12; 3:16; Rom. 10:13; Acts 16:30,31 1 Corinthians 6:13-20; 2 Tim. 2:21-22 Romans 10:11; 2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Peter 4:16 Christians: 1 John 1:9 I John 4:4; Psalm 29:11; Isaiah 41:10; Romans 5:3; I Peter 1:6,7; 2:19-23 Matthew 26:41; I Cor. 10:13; James 1:13,14 James 5:8; Psalm 27:13,14 I Cor. 15:57; I John 5:4,5; Romans 6:11-13 I Peter 5:7; Matt. 6:25-34; Philippians 4:6,7

THE WORD OF GOD HAS THE ANSWERS

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HOW TO COUNSEL WITH THE BIBLE "Tru st in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."-- Proverb s 3: 5.

Ask: “Why did you come?” “If you died today, would if you go to Heaven?” “Why?” Next: “Let me show you what the Bible says.” I Don’t believe the Bible. 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet.1:21 If a person won't believe the Bible, he cannot be saved Luke 16:31. Keep on using the Word of God. Hebrews 4:12; Romans 10:17 I don’t think Jesus is God. John l: l-3; John 10:30; Hebrews 1:3 I think there are many ways to Heaven. John 14:6; Acts 4:12 I can’t understand the Bible. I Cor. 2:14; 2 Cor. 5:7; Col. 3:16 I think it just seems too easy. Isa. 55:8, 9; I Cor.1:18; Acts 16:31 I'm not as bad as others. Romans 3:10, 23; Jer.17:9; Isaiah 64:6 I don’t think God will punish me. John 3:18, 36; Hebrews 9:27 I'm keeping the Laws of God. Romans 3:20; James 2:10 I'm doing the best I can. Ephesians 2:8, 9; Isaiah 64:6 I'm too bad. Romans 3:10-12; Hebrews 7:25; Isaiah 1:18 I'm not sure the Lord will accept me. John 6:37; Matthew 11:28 I’ll have to give up too much. Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 18:29, 30 I can’t give up my old ways. Matthew 11:28-30; 2 Corinthians 5:17 I'm afraid I can’t live as a Christian. Philippians 1:6; 4:13 I'll take my chances. Hebrews 9:27;10:31; Revelation 20:11-15 I'm not ready. James 4:14; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Proverbs 27:1 I will be saved later. Proverbs 27:1; James 4:14 I just don’t feel like it. Romans 10:17 Faith not feelings. I am handicapped - I do not need to be saved. Romans 3:10, 23 I belong to another church - religion. Revelation 20:15 Let the Word of God and the Holy Spirit work in the heart of the listener. Do not force your strong opinions. Avoid harsh or rude statements. Your opinions mean nothing. Only the Word of God will bring conviction and conversion. If they do receive Christ, then give verses for assurance and present helpful literature. If there is no apparent conviction of the Holy Spirit, pray for the person and let him know that you want to help however and whenever you can. Leave helpful literature.

Keep the door open

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Go Into All The World Includes the Deaf! Don't forget to fish for Deaf souls! Because They Have Lost Their Hearing,, They Do Not Need To Lose Their Souls!

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HOW TO TEACH CHART: “STEPS TO HEAVEN” (Steps to Heaven – Chart Next Page)

Know that you are saved! Don't doubt! You can know for sure and truly say, "I am finished saved, I am going to Heaven." How can you know that you are saved? Step 1. All Have Sinned - The Bible says, “All have sinned" [Romans 3: 23]. You have sin and cannot go to Heaven with sin. You are a sinner. You are lost. The word “all” means “all” people: the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the hearing and the deaf. Even the little child has sin. The little baby is born crying and soon starts lying. Who teaches the children how to do wrong? No one teaches them to do wrong because they are born in sin and already know how to do wrong. You do not become a sinner, but you are born a sinner. All have sin! Step 2. God Loves You - God loves you. He does not want to punish you in Hell. He wants you to be saved and to go to Heaven. God will forgive your sins. He gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to take the place of your sins (John 3:16). God loves you and wants you to be saved. Step 3. Christ Died For Your Sins - Jesus Christ, God's Son, died for your sins. Jesus became the Sacrifice for sin on the cross, He became your substitute for death in the grave, He arose as Savior to save you. Only Jesus can forgive your sins and save you. Jesus died for your sins. This means there is nothing you can do to remove your sins. Only Jesus can forgive your sins and save you. Only Jesus can forgive sins (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Step 4. Pray and Be Saved - You know you are a sinner. You know that God loves you. You know that Jesus Christ will save you and forgive your sins. Now you must pray and ask Jesus to forgive your sins and save you. He will forgive your sins and make you to become a child of God (John 1:12). Your name will be written in the Book of Life in Heaven and you will not be cast (thrown) into the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:11). If you are late praying to Jesus to forgive your sins and be saved. Do it now. Pray and be saved. Step 5. You Have Everlasting Life - Know that God's Word is true. You have prayed. You have accepted Jesus Christ and now you are a child of God. You have everlasting life (John 3:16). This means you will never be cast into Hell. You are saved and finished with Hell. When you are saved you will go to Heaven. God promises you have eternal life (John 10:28). Pray and be saved: Know now that you are saved. If you are not saved, be saved now.

Pray: "My Heavenly Father, l am a sinner. I believe Jesus died for my sins. I am sorry for my sins. I now accept Jesus Christ for my Saviour. I now ask Jesus to save me. I am now finished saved. I will go to Heaven when I die...Amen!" Assurance of Salvation: You are saved according to the Word of God. God cannot lie. He promised to give you eternal life (John 10:28). Sometimes you may doubt or not feel saved because of sin or failure, but you are still in the family of God (John 1:12). Salvation is of the heart from God and assurance is of the head from knowledge of the Word of God. When you die, God will remember your prayer. He will say, “Come up with me” (2 Corinthians 5:8). He will remember you prayed and received Jesus Christ. God will not forget you are saved! 19

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What To Do After You Are Saved Good Christians are always growing and learning. They learn from mistakes and problems. They learn what does work and what does not work. Remember, as long as you live you learn and as long as you learn you will live. Water that stops running becomes stagnant and dead. Keep life and growth in your ministry. It is very important that deaf people be taught, discipled and trained into Christian maturity so they can be used in the ministry and help train others. Some deaf ministries provide interpreting services only. Sometimes the deaf just become "on-lookers" and never become involved. It is exciting to see deaf ministries disciple the deaf to help the deaf. John Clark, evangelist to the deaf, once told me to be sure to tell the deaf workers, "Let the Deaf grow.” "And the child (Jesus) grew, and waxed (became) strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God (from above) was upon him" (Luke 2:40). "And Jesus increased (grew 4 ways) in (1) wisdom and (2) stature, and in (3) favor with God and (4) man" (Luke 2:52). Four Ways To Grow: It is exciting to see a baby grow to an adult. But It is very sad when a child does not grow, and remains as a child all his life. Deaf people need to grow slowly into maturity. A child in the fourth grade is promoted to the fifth grade. Some deaf have remained at the same level for many years and have never grown. Are you growing? What have you learned in the past twelve months? Everything that has life must eat to grow. If it does not eat then it will die. This is true for the large elephant or the smallest germ. If you do not eat then you will starve and soon die. The spiritual man also needs to be fed or it will starve. It is natural that life must develop and grow. It is right that anything that has life should grow. It is important that deaf people grow in all four levels of life. 1. PHYSICALLY - “Increased in stature” - This involves activities - exercise - right foods - fun sports - hiking - tennis - golf - biking - volley ball - etc. Deaf need the right activities and atmosphere a good Christian program to help them to grow physically. 2. MENTALLY - “Increased in wisdom” - It is important what you read and see, what you are taught and what you learn. God has given you a mind to understand - a heart to know - and a will to decide. You are different than an animal. What you think about is what you become (Proverbs 23:7). The Bible teaches much about wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Knowledge comes from books - reading - studying - listening and learning. Wisdom is from God. Wisdom will help you in deciding what is right or wrong - true or false - and good or bad. Understanding is using the wisdom with knowledge in the right way to grow mentally. 3. SOCIALLY - "Favor with man" People need people. Deaf people must learn to live daily in a hearing world. This involves learning to live with others. It is important to have right friends, go to the right places and have good Christian entertainment. Deaf people love to fellowship and it is very important in the ministry. Be a good Christian at home - work - school and church. 4. SPIRITUALLY - "Favor with God" - God is a very important part of life. Deaf people need to know Him personally. To grow spiritually requires the Word of God, prayer, church, witnessing, and helping others. "Desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow" (I Peter 2:2). No one can grow without the Word of God – No one!. Do you have a desire to grow? A good leader will develop his/her work into a strong, mature ministry. Let your deaf grow. Do not hold them back. Push them out. Deaf people need to become leaders in the deaf ministry. Some ministries only permit deaf people to attend and be onlookers. Deaf people can reach other deaf people. Deaf people can teach other deaf people. Help the deaf to spiritually grow!

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Help Your Deaf People to Grow in All Four Areas!

What Have You Left Undone? Unsown seeds reap no harvest Unspoken words give no comfort Unwritten songs do not bless Unsent cards do not encourage Unwritten poems inspire no one Ungiven gifts never made a difference Unpreached messages remain unheard Ungiven love is unexpressed Unfinished tasks are never rewarded Ungiven tracts are just paper Unwritten words are never read Unsaid prayers remain silent

What have you done? have you left undone?

What

- Ted Camp, SWM

It seems that with all the modern conveniences we have, we still have less time to do our priorities. There is a lot of activity, but little accomplishment. Christians are being bogged down with trivial things and ignoring the priorities. The days become weeks, the weeks become months and soon another year has past with unfulfilled goals and unfinished tasks for the Lord. Are we accountable for unfinished tasks, unfulfilled goals, and neglected duties? Many have good intentions but do not follow through with their commitments. They intend to do it tomorrow, but not today. They let the day and its activities control their lives. What have you accomplished at the end of each day? What did you leave undone? What did the Lord call you to do? Paul said, “Lord what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6). Not everyone is called to preached, but everyone can be used of God. God has a plan for every Christian to serve Him. “And shall not he render to every man according to his works” (Proverbs 24:12). Everyone without exception is accountable to God for things done and also for things not done in this life. A person who delays, procrastinates, puts-off, postpones, intends, or just ignores their God-given tasks will end with a life of regrets. Thinking of what might have been ...If only I had...I will never know... and living only the second best with his life. Don’t live a life of what might have been!

Stewards are Accountable A steward is the manager and overseer of another’s property and possessions. A good steward (servant) will wisely use and invest from what he has been given to produce an increase for his master. The Lord will reward according to his works. Stewards are accountable for things done and things undone! If you continually omit and neglect the things the Lord requires of you there will be a time of regret. Your good intentions remain undone. Your biggest regret at the end of life won't be the things you did but the things you left undone! According to a recent research by two social psychologists, time is a key factor in what we regret. Over the short-term, you tend to regret actions because of things you wish you hadn't done. But over the long-haul, you tend to regret inactions— things you didn't do but wish you had done. The study found that inaction regrets outweigh action regrets. Don't have regrets over undones! What have you done? What have you left undone? BE A GOOD STEWARD

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Deaf People Are Individuals By Dr. Ted Camp, SWM Many years ago in in the late 80's when I was at the Bill Rice Ranch, in Murfreesboro, a free camp for the deaf, it was my ministry to visit state deaf schools and invite deaf children to our free camp. One year I visited fifteen different state schools for the deaf. At each school I talked with the leaders and educators to learn their philosophies and teaching methods so I could improve in my writings and ministry to the Deaf. The best advice I received was from the principal at Flint School for the Deaf in Flint, Michigan. He simply stated, “There is no certain philosophy that works with all deaf people because deaf people are individuals. Each individual deaf person has a different background, language level, education level and needs. What may work with one may not work with others because of their different backgrounds.” Since that time, I have maintained that principle in my teaching and preaching. Teach the individual deaf person to their level of understanding. Deaf people cannot be generalized or universalized as “all Deaf”any more than you can state that “all Hispanics” are the same. Each person is an individual with different IQ levels and abilities. There is no one method 's exactly right all people, any more than all children are the same.

"Train up a child in the way he should go..." – Proverbs 22:6 Train up "A"child not all "children" are the same. Each child is different. What methods may have worked with one child may not work with another. Parents should recognize that all their children belong to them, but each one is different.

Deaf People Are Individuals Deaf people differ because of their different lifestyles, education, environment, cultures, and levels of hearing. Deaf people are also different individuals with different needs. The key words are "communications"and “understanding.” If the deaf do not understand the way you sign, then sign the way they understand. Deaf people are just like hearing people, except they cannot hear.. Some are totally deaf, and some are hard-of-hearing. Some were born deaf and some became deaf. Their spiritual, educational and social needs differ. It would also be wonderful if more family members and friends learned how to sign and talk to the Deaf. Deaf people are individuals and should not be limited in reaching their fullest potential in all areas of life. Our goal should be to reach and teach each deaf person at their level of understanding and then seek to help them reach their fullest potential. One teacher said about her Sunday School class for deaf children, “You see a twelve year old boy, but what I see is a young man.” She knew that the young man needed to be properly educated to become the young man that God intended. As one deaf leader said, “Let the deaf grow.” After one year of teaching there should be one year of educational growth. A public school teacher seeks to advance the students from one grade to the next year. You should seek to advance the Deaf spiritually and educationally each year. You should seek to help develop each deaf person to the next level of life. Deaf people need to grow, physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. They are already handicapped with deafness, but do not handicap them spiritually. Train up a deaf person in the way he (individual) should go, and when he is old he will not depart from the training you have given him. Teach and train the deaf person before you at his level of understanding and language. One deaf person said, “I understood every sign, but what did he say?” If he does not understand the way you sign, then sign the way he understands. What you have taught him will remain with him for the rest of his life and the teachings will help him to go in the way he should go (Proverbs 22:6). Learn to communicate to the level of those who are before you. Do not teach, interpret, or sign to impress them with your abilities. Keep it simple so all can understand!

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Teach and Train The Deaf By Ted Camp, SWM “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” -- II Timothy 2:2

Teach = Information - From my Head to your Head. Train = Instruct - From my Hands to your Hands.

It is a Fact ..... I do not know what you know. I do not know what you do not know because it is unknown. I do know what I know and this is known. If you only know what you know then you will not grow. If you know what I know and what you know, then you will grow. The unknown will become known. What you now know can be known to others. Those who know what you know will grow! -- Ted Camp The Teaching and Training Program Knowledge with Instruction - Instruction produces Learning Learning gives Understanding - Understanding produces Wisdom How To Learn: Look - Listen - Learn - Live It - Lead Others. Remember, Deaf people listen with their eyes – If they are not looking they are not listening or learning

From Knowledge To Wisdom “The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” -- Proverbs 1:1-7

The Growth Process from Knowledge to Wisdom First: Obtain Knowledge with Instruction Then Learn and Understand from what you have Received. Your increased Understanding will slowly develop into Wisdom. Then Teach and Train others from your Knowledge and Wisdom. Knowledge is from Man - Wisdom is from God. Seek Knowledge - Pray For Wisdom

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They Brought Young Children To Him By Ted Camp “And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer (let permit or let) the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.” -- Mark 10:13-16 “And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy.” -- Mark 2:3 “They bring unto Him one that was Deaf.” -- Mark 7:32 “They” are the unnamed servants in the Bible

“They brought young children to Him” Who Are “They?” Could be... Parents? Friends? Neighbors? “They” Means more than one - Could Be First Children’s ministry

Question the Congregation... How many of you saved over 50 years? (40 to 50) - (30 - 40) (20-30) How many were saved as a junior or teen?

But They Are Only Kids After a man and boy were saved, someone said to D.L. Moody, “You had one and one-half saved.” D.L. Moody replied, “Yes, the boy was one and the adult was one-half.”

Some oppose a children’s ministry ... I Think Children Come Church With Parents. ... Kids tear up church - Cost money - No profit What to do about those kids? Solution is to Love Them as Jesus Loves Them!

Don’t Forget the Deaf Children

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I WANT YOU TO GO TO HEAVEN WITH ME I WANT MEET YOU IN HEAVEN IN HEAVEN DEAF HEAR FOREVER! “No more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain for the former things are passed away... I will make all things new.” – Revelation 21:4-5 26

The Great Commission “And Jesus came and spake unto them... All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:18-20 “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” – Mark 16:15

Remember... “Go into the world” Includes Deaf People!

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