Altar calls sit controversially in the history of the American church. Some churches practically do them every week, while other churches do not believe that altar calls are biblical. Pastors who resist altar calls still believe in calling for a response to the preaching of the gospel. What does calling for a response look like in practice? Theologian Michael Green provides a helpful method in his book, Evangelism Through the Local Church. 

How to Call for a Response

Calling for a response must not be an after-thought or just tacked onto the end of the sermon to fulfill an obligation. It is a vital aspect of preaching the gospel because God demands that people “confess with [their] mouth…and believe in [their] heart that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Romans 10:9). Therefore, it have a thoughtful flow and plenty of opportunity for people to process the truths of the gospel.

Gospel Presentation

It should be a no-brainer, but calling for a a response to the preaching of the gospel must include a gospel presentation! As the sermon winds to a close, the preacher must give a “clear and reasonably rounded presentation of the gospel” (252). Otherwise, preachers become like salesmen. Preachers should not rush through it nor try to smooth out the sharp corners of the gospel, especially concerning God’s holiness and humanity’s sinfulness.

After clearly presenting the truths of the gospel, it is appropriate to urge unbelievers to come to Christ. Such is Paul’s heart in 2 Corinthians 5:20: “We urge you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”

Time for Silence

Green then suggests giving a time of silence for the people, perhaps one or two minutes. During this time, you may want to review a prominent verse of Scripture that has been presented in the sermon (254). The silence allows for the people to reflect on the gospel message and make an informed decision.

Prayer of Commitment

After the time of silence, he suggests giving a prayer of commitment for “those who want to use it, and only for them” (254). Green’s example explanation and prayer goes something like this:

“I say: ‘If you feel you don’t know how to put it, why not use something very simple like this? You could say it after me under your breath if you like. “Lord, please forgive me, and come take up residence in my life. Amen”‘” (254).

Congregational Blessing

Green goes on bless the congregation, speaking about God’s promises and how He will never leave or forsake the people who put their trust in Christ.

Opportunity for Follow Up

After the blessing, he provides two opportunities for follow up. The first is for new Christians, or those interested in learning more, to sign up for a Discovery Group (254). It is a specifically designed small group study, usually about eight-weeks long. It provides space for people to ask questions, and learn more about the faith. Green makes sure to stress the importance to joining of a group because it is how someone can “be serious with Christ” (254).

Another way to draw people to you after the service is to offer people a book on basic Christian living. Green writes, “If at the end of your talk you mention that you have such material, it gives them something to come and ask for and therefore minimizes the embarrassment of going to talk to a minister about God at the end of a service.” (254).

Begging to be Saved

The joy of preaching is the ability to be a beggar, just like the apostle Paul. He implored (begged!) unbelievers to “be reconciled to Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). Let’s follow in his footsteps by preaching the truths of the gospel with all our might and by also calling for a response to it!