If there is something just as important as winning souls for Christ it is retaining them. To retain the fruit that God gives is in essence closing the back door, not letting the enemy steal them back. This is consolidation, following up with the new believers. Giving strength and encouragement to them, assuring them that the decision they have made to follow Christ is the correct one.

Lets look at some examples of consolidation in the book of Acts:

“They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.” Acts 14:21-22 (NIV)

“Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” Acts 15:36 (NIV)

“Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.” Acts 15:40-41 (NIV)

From the verses above we can see that consolidation was a practice of the early church. It was done with the purpose of building character in all of the new believers, re-affirming their experience with God, and ultimatly strengthening the churches. It is vital to give this care immediately after the person makes the decision to follow Christ, just as it is vital to care for a newborn baby immediately after its birth.

Always keep in mind that winning a soul for Christ is only the first step. The next step is consolidation. The enemy will steal the fruit from you if you let your guard down. The way to prevent this through the prayer and support you give when consolidating.

Filed under: Devotionals, Reflections, Winning Souls by Jose Palacios