Millions of people searching online for hope or spiritual answers have encountered PeaceWithGod.net, a website that shares four simple steps to having a relationship with God.
Since 2011, when the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) launched its Search for Jesus ministry, there have been 20 million indicated decisions to follow Jesus Christ—from people all across the globe.
“Our goal is to get as many people as possible that come to our websites and social media to engage one-on-one with one of our volunteers to have a personal interaction, a conversation,” said Mark Appleton, vice president of BGEA’s Internet Evangelism ministry.
When people wrestle with significant, life-altering things, they don’t always have someone to talk to. They may also be in countries where asking Gospel questions in person is illegal.
For example, many Muslims in the Middle East have connected to one of BGEA’s evangelistic websites to explore Christianity. Despite the threat of persecution, hundreds in hostile areas have started following Christ.
As people search online for hope and answers to spiritual questions, timing is key, said Appleton.
“To me that’s one of the most exciting aspects of watching this ministry develop,” he said. “Over the years, God has used it to connect with people in their moment of need.”
Joannie* is one of many who turned to the internet for answers.
Finishing her shift after midnight, she needed to drive home but instead sat in her car and searched the internet for help. That’s when she came across one of our websites and started chatting.
“I’m sad a lot lately,” she typed. “I’m sad that I am getting older—that I never married or had kids. Sad that my parents are older. I’m hoping there’s an afterlife but my faith isn’t what it used to be.”
After connecting with a volunteer coach, Joannie’s outlook on life quickly changed. “You have awoken something inside of me—inside of my heart, and I am actually quite surprised at the joy I am feeling,” she said.
As the conversation continued, Joannie prayed to rededicate her life to Christ. Following the hourlong conversation, she summed up her experience.
“I honestly cannot hardly believe that these few words that we have shared has been so powerful. I am quite amazed, but God’s truly spoken through you. You knew exactly what to say to me.
“I can’t really explain it,” she said, “but I never would have believed when I got in my car earlier that this is where this would have gone or that I would feel this moved.
“If you have ever wondered if it’s doing any good, know that tonight you have truly touched someone.”
What’s Next?
Searching for spiritual answers or making a commitment to follow Jesus Christ is just the beginning of a larger journey. Inquirers who indicate a decision online are offered materials on how to pray, read God’s Word, and find community in a Bible-teaching church.
Of the 20 million indicated decisions, more than 3 million people asked to receive online discipleship materials.
Participants who are interested are matched with a volunteer to guide them through one of several online courses.
These trained volunteers mentor and pour into the lives of complete strangers, and their service is essential to the outreach, noted Appleton.
“As the ministry has matured, we’ve learned how to involve them more and more in the process through evangelism training, coaching sessions, and building community through volunteer teams.
And these volunteers are growing in their faith as well, impacting their own communities across the globe. “Seventeen hundred people from churches in 50 countries are getting better at evangelism and growing in it as a skill,” said Appleton.
“They’re becoming more and more effective in sharing the Gospel.”
Join us in praising God for the millions of lives He has changed around the world—to Him alone belongs the glory. Please pray that many more people will discover new life in Jesus Christ through this ministry.
*Name changed for privacy
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