The Person of Peace

The "person of peace" strategy centers on an outsider identifying a receptive insider within a new cultural context to facilitate gospel growth through existing relational networks, or *oikos*. This biblical model, exemplified by figures like the woman at the well and Zacchaeus, relies on individuals who are warm to the message and possess the influence to reach their family, friends, and coworkers. A person of peace is characterized by their willingness to receive and serve others, an immediate obedience to teachings, and a readiness to introduce the messenger to their social circle. Modern application involves a three-phase "prayer knocking" approach: initiating contact through random acts of kindness and prayer, returning to share the gospel, and immediately training new believers to reach their own networks. This method prioritizes rapid reproduction by empowering local insiders to become the primary evangelists within their own communities.