Episode: How to Engage in Evangelism in Today’s World
Starting in 2026, Bishop Jeff Bailey is taking the host chair, curating conversations with targeted insights on three areas shaping our diocese: clergy care, leadership development, and church planting.
Episode Summary
In a world where traditional methods of evangelism often feel outdated, how can we effectively communicate our faith? In this episode, Bishop Jeff talks with the Rev. Ger Jones of Vintage L.A. about the current state of evangelism in the American Church. From addressing cultural barriers to practical steps for engagement, this episode offers a roadmap for meaningful evangelism in today’s world.
Episode Highlights
Cultural Perception: Christianity is often viewed negatively, seen as exclusionary and judgmental. This perception creates a barrier for many who might otherwise be interested in exploring faith.
Methodological Barriers: Many traditional evangelism methods feel irrelevant or ineffective in today’s context. As society becomes more relational and dialogue-oriented, the old ways of preaching may not resonate with those outside the church.
The Need for a Heart Change: To move forward, Ger emphasizes the importance of prayer and asking God to break our hearts for the lost. This approach shifts the focus from obligation to genuine compassion. By understanding the needs and struggles of those around us, we can foster deeper connections and create space for meaningful conversations about faith.
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Born into a dynamic ministry context, the Rev. Ger Jones experienced God moving profoundly throughout his childhood and teenage years. He was a leader in the church at a young age. After studying, Ger practiced law in London for a few years, but then went through a deep crisis of faith and church for a few years. After coming back to faith and church, Ger and his wife Lizzie moved to Switzerland to pursue brand management as well as marketplace ministry. He then unexpectedly discerned that full-time ministry was the next step.
Following an M.Div at Regent College, Vancouver and then pastoring in an Anglican Church in Raleigh, Ger and Lizzie felt God’s call to plant a church in Los Angeles. The Jones family moved to Santa Monica in 2011 and began the process of planting Vintage Church with just 3 other people! Ger is passionate about thoughtful, deep theology, the power of the Holy Spirit, mission to our city and helping people to explore faith and the more difficult questions.