Week 1 – Introduction to Evangelism: Why It Matters

Week 1 – Introduction to Evangelism: Why It Matters

by | Jul 16, 2024 | Biblical Literacy, Evangelism, Series

Welcome to our first post in the series on evangelism. If you’ve ever wondered why evangelism is crucial, why it’s a recurring theme in Christian circles, or why you should be involved, this post is for you. Evangelism is more than just a church activity or a religious duty; it is the heartbeat of Christian faith and mission. Want to know what we call the Great Commission? Let’s dive in and explore why evangelism matters, how it reflects the character of God, and what it means for you personally and collectively as a believer.

Understanding Evangelism

At its core, evangelism is the act of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Simple, isn’t it? The term originates from the Greek word “euangelion,” which means “good news” or “gospel.” Evangelism is about proclaiming this good news to others, inviting them to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ in their own lives. It is inviting people to experience Jesus personally.  

Why Evangelism Matters

1. Biblical Mandate: The Great Commission

Evangelism is not just a suggestion; it is a command from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives His final instructions to His disciples before ascending to heaven:

 “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'”

This passage, known as the Great Commission, underscores the importance of evangelism. It is a directive for all believers to go, make disciples, baptise, and teach. It is a mission that encompasses the entire globe and extends until the end of time. Evangelism is an act of obedience to Jesus’ command.

2. Reflection of God’s Heart

Evangelism reflects the very heart of God. God’s desire is for all people to come to know Him and experience His love, grace, and salvation. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

God’s patience and desire for repentance demonstrate His loving and redemptive nature. Evangelism aligns us with God’s heart and His redemptive plan for humanity. It is through evangelism that we participate in God’s mission to reconcile the world to Himself.

2 Corinthians 5:19

“That is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.”

3. Power of the Gospel

The gospel is the power of God for salvation. Romans 1:16 states:

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

The message of Jesus Christ has the power to transform lives. It offers hope, forgiveness, and a new beginning. Through evangelism, we share this life-changing message with others, allowing them to experience the same transformative power.

Jesus truly loves everyone, but they just don’t know it yet.  That knowledge is transmitted by sharing the gospel.

4. Fulfillment of Our Identity

As believers, we are called to be witnesses of Christ. Acts 1:8 says:

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Witnessing is not just something we do; it is who we are. Our identity as Christians is intertwined with our mission to be witnesses. Evangelism is a natural outflow of our relationship with Christ and our desire to see others come to know Him.

5. Impact on Eternity

Evangelism has eternal implications. When we share the gospel, we are inviting others to enter into a relationship with God that has everlasting consequences. John 3:16 emphasises this:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The stakes are high. Evangelism is about more than just improving someone’s life here and now; it is about their eternal destiny. Understanding this weighty responsibility motivates us to share the good news with urgency and compassion.

“It is too risky to find out that there is life after death when you are dead.”

SLAVOR

Evangelism greatly reduces this risk for everyone we encounter with the gospel of Jesus. 

Overcoming Common Objections

Despite understanding the importance of evangelism, many believers hesitate to engage in it. Here are some common objections and how to overcome them:

1. Fear of Rejection or Ridicule

It’s natural to fear rejection or ridicule but remember that Jesus Himself faced rejection. John 15:18-20 reminds us:

“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.  Remember the word that I said to you, A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also”

Facing rejection for the sake of the gospel aligns us with Christ’s own experience and should be seen as a part of our journey as His followers.

Generally, no one likes facing the truth but the truth actually sets free. John 8:32 says:

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Jesus

Let your knowledge of this truth propel you above the fear of rejection or ridicule.

2. Lack of Knowledge or Confidence

Many people feel unprepared to share their faith because they believe they don’t know enough. However, evangelism is not about having all the answers; it’s about sharing your personal experience with Jesus in the light of God’s love. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us:

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Focus on sharing what Christ has done in your life and trust the Holy Spirit to guide your words.   Share the transformations that has happened in your life but more importantly the rest Jesus promised as stated in Matthew 11:28-29:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

You must take time to read and study the Word of God systematically so that you are always increasing in the knowledge of God.  Check out 2 Timothy 2:15

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”

3. Belief that Evangelism is Only for Certain People

Some believe that evangelism is only for pastors, missionaries, or specially gifted individuals. However, the Great Commission is for all believers. Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us:

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”

While there are specific roles within the church, every believer is called to share the gospel in their unique context.

Matthew 28:19-20 is for all believers:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.”

4. Cultural Sensitivity and Political Correctness

In today’s diverse and pluralistic society, sharing one’s faith can be seen as intrusive or intolerant. It’s important to approach evangelism with sensitivity and respect for others’ beliefs. Colossians 4:5-6 advises:

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

Balancing truth with love and respect opens doors for meaningful conversations.   There is no need to go into political topics or arguments.  Our goal is to let the world know about Jesus. 

Practical Steps to Engage in Evangelism

1. Pray for Opportunities

Prayer is the foundation of evangelism. Ask God to open doors for you to share the gospel and to give you the boldness to speak when opportunities arise. Colossians 4:3-4 is a good reminder:

“And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.”

2. Live a Life That Reflects Christ (Holiness)

Your lifestyle can be a powerful testimony. Matthew 5:16 says:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Living out your faith authentically can attract others to Christ and create opportunities for you to share the gospel.

3. Be filled with the Holy Spirit

Acts 10:38 gives us Jesus’s secret to reaching the world and we must follow that pattern.

“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.”

acts 10:38

Your effectiveness as a witness is tremendously increased when you are filled with the Holy Spirit as stated in Acts 1:8:

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Jesus

The Holy Spirit has more information and insights than you do, so rely on him.

4. Build Genuine Relationships

Evangelism is most effective within the context of relationships. Invest time in building genuine relationships with people. Listen to their stories, understand their struggles, and show them the love of Christ through your actions.

Galatians 5:6 (NKJV) 

“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.”

5. Share Your Personal Testimony

Your personal story of how you came to faith in Christ is a powerful tool. It is unique to you and can resonate with others in ways that abstract theological arguments might not. Be ready to share what Jesus has done in your life and how He has made a difference.

6. Use Resources

Apart from the Bible, there are many resources available to help you share your faith effectively. Books, tracts, videos, and online tools can provide useful frameworks and conversation starters. Equip yourself with resources that align with your style and context.

7. Join or Form an Evangelism Team

Working with others can provide support and encouragement. Many churches have evangelism teams that go out together to share the gospel. If your church doesn’t have one, consider forming a group of like-minded individuals who are passionate about evangelism.

8. Attend Evangelism Training

Many organisations and churches offer training in evangelism. These programs can equip you with practical skills and confidence. Look for local or online courses that can help you grow in your ability to share the gospel.  Check out our Resources page, you might find some free useful resources.

Conclusion

Evangelism matters because it is a command from Jesus, it reflects God’s heart, it has the power to transform lives, it fulfils our identity as witnesses, and it has eternal implications. Despite the challenges and objections, every believer is called to engage in this mission. By praying for opportunities, being filled with the Holy Spirit, living out our faith, building genuine relationships, sharing our personal testimonies, using resources, joining evangelism teams, and attending training, we can become effective witnesses for Christ.

As we embark on this journey of evangelism together, let’s remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 9:37-38:

“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”

Jesus

May we be those workers, faithfully sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and participating in God’s redemptive mission for the world.

Next Steps

Join us in the next post as we delve into “The Great Commission: Jesus’ Mandate to His Disciples.” We’ll explore the biblical foundation of evangelism and what it means for us today. Until then, may God bless you as you seek to be a faithful witness of His love and truth. Step out and start evangelising!

Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences with evangelism, please leave a comment below. Let’s continue this journey together!

Guide on Street Evangelism

Guide on Street Evangelism

by | Mar 11, 2023 | Evangelism

Evangelism is a crucial part of the Christian faith. As followers of Christ, we are called to spread the good news of the gospel to all people. One effective way to do this is through street evangelism, where we engage with people in public spaces and share the love and message of Jesus Christ.

Here are some tips on how to evangelize on the street:

  1. Pray for guidance

Before embarking on any street evangelism, it is important to spend time in prayer seeking God’s guidance and wisdom. Ask for the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions and to prepare the hearts of those you will encounter.

  1. Be respectful and approachable

Approach people with respect and a friendly attitude. Smile and engage in small talk before transitioning into a conversation about faith. People are more likely to listen if they feel comfortable and not threatened.

  1. Share your personal testimony

Your personal testimony is a powerful tool for evangelism. Share how Christ has transformed your life and how He has given you hope and peace. This can resonate with people who may be going through similar struggles.

  1. Use scripture

Scripture is the foundation of our faith, and it can be a powerful tool in evangelism. Share key verses that relate to the person’s situation or struggles. This can help them see how the Bible applies to their life.

  1. Listen and empathize

When evangelizing on the street, it is important to listen and empathize with people. This helps build a relationship and shows that you care about their struggles and concerns.

  1. Offer prayer

Offer to pray with people before ending the conversation. Pray for their needs and struggles and ask for God’s guidance in their life. This can be a powerful way to show the love of Christ and bring hope to those in need.

  1. Follow up

If possible, follow up with the person after the conversation. Offer to meet for coffee or attend a church service together. This can help build a deeper relationship and provide ongoing support as they explore their faith.

In conclusion, street evangelism can be a powerful way to share the gospel with those who may not have heard it before. By following these tips and relying on God’s guidance, we can share the love of Christ and make a difference in the lives of those around us.

Meditate on In Him Scriptures

Meditate on In Him Scriptures

by | Nov 18, 2020 | Growth, Prayers

One of the fundamental areas of our lives,  when we give our lives to Christ is who we have become.  It is important, you meditate on the Word of God(Joshua 1:8) but focused on who you are in Christ Jesus.  This daily exercise will ensure you experience and become a sound mind.  

Who you think and know you are, goes a long way in helping you realise and living in the love of God.  

God loves you the way He loves Jesus

 

That is an important statement which the enemy of your soul will want you to dismiss but I encourage you, to believe what the Word of God says about you.  

Below is a list of scriptures(NKJV Bible) that gives you insight into what you are in Christ:

Acts 17:28

for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’

Romans 8:14

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

Romans 8:15

For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”

2 Corinthians 5:21

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Ephesians 1:4

just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love,

Ephesians 1:10

that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth—in Him.

Philippians 3:9

 and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;

Colossians 1:9

 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

Colossians 2:6-7

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.

Colossians 2:9

For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily;

Colossians 2:10

and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.

2 Thessalonians 1:12

that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 2:13

And again:
“I will put My trust in Him.”
And again:
“Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.”

1 John 2:5

But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him.

1 John 2:6

He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

 

1 John 4:4

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 

 

Who am I becoming?

Who am I becoming?

by | Oct 25, 2020 | General, Growth

Insights from Genesis 24:14-15 and John 17:12

1. The Premise

Life often unfolds in unexpected ways, altering our paths and shaping our destinies in ways we may not immediately recognize. The stories of Rebekah, Joseph, Mary, Moses, and even Judas Iscariot reveal a recurring theme in Scripture: the journey of becoming. Understanding who we are becoming is crucial in aligning with God’s divine plan and purpose for our lives.

2. Identifying Who You Are Becoming

Rebekah’s story is a prime example. She was living her daily life, fulfilling her roles as a daughter and sister, when she encountered Abraham’s servant. Unbeknownst to her, this meeting was a divine appointment. Her acceptance to follow the servant set her on a path to becoming Isaac’s wife and, eventually, a pivotal figure in God’s promise to Abraham. Rebekah did not initially realize the significance of her pregnancy, which carried the future of nations within her.

Similarly, Joseph’s journey from favoured son to Egyptian prime minister was fraught with hardship and uncertainty. Each trial he faced was a step toward his ultimate role as a saviour of his people. In each situation, Joseph remained faithful and diligent, though he could not foresee the full scope of his destiny.

Mary and Joseph also didn’t fully grasp their roles in the divine narrative when they found themselves expecting the Messiah. Their commitment to righteousness placed them in positions they could never have imagined.

Moses, too, underwent a profound transformation. From a prince of Egypt to a fugitive, and finally, to the leader and prophet who would deliver Israel, Moses’ life was a testament to the often unseen but divinely orchestrated journey of becoming.

Judas Iscariot, despite his close association with Jesus, failed to recognize the destructive path he was on until it was too late. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-awareness and alignment with God’s will.

3. Enforcing Who You Are Becoming

Once you identify who you are becoming in God’s plan, it’s vital to live in accordance with that truth. John 8:31-32 and Galatians 5:16-18 emphasize the importance of continuing in God’s Word and being led by the Holy Spirit. Your daily actions should reflect the person God is shaping you to be. Whether it’s through prayer, study, or service, consistently align your life with God’s truth and purpose.

4. Changing Who You Are Becoming

If you find that your current path does not align with God’s plan, change is necessary. Acts 2:37-43 highlights the steps to realign with God’s will:

  1. Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior: Begin by acknowledging and accepting Jesus (John 1:12, Romans 10:9-11).

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name

John 1:12 NKJV

That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”

Romans 10:9-11 NKJV
  1. Study Scripture: Discover what God’s Word says about who you should become.
  2. Engage the Holy Spirit: Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to transform and align your life with God’s will (John 16:13-14).

Should you find that you are becoming someone who is not in line with God’s standards—whether it’s as a spouse, parent, minister, or professional—commit to the scriptural guidelines for those roles. Implement changes, and let the Holy Spirit empower you to become who you are meant to be.

5. Reflection and Prayer

It’s essential to continually evaluate and reflect on your spiritual journey. Ask God to reveal who you are becoming and to help you conform to His Word and ways.

Prayer:

  1. Lord, reveal who I am becoming to me and help me to align with Your Word and ways.
  2. Holy Spirit, guide me into all truth and help me to fulfil my divine purpose.

Embrace this journey of becoming with faith and diligence, trusting that God is at work in your life to fulfil His promises and purposes.

Discover The Most Expensive Item in the World!

Discover The Most Expensive Item in the World!

by | Jul 12, 2020 | General

What is the most expensive item in the world? The answer might seem relative, depending on one’s financial status and personal values. For some, the pursuit of the most expensive item—be it a car, jewellery, a house, or any other luxurious possession—is a significant life goal. Such items often serve as symbols of success and status, attracting admiration and accolades.

However, according to the greatest teacher ever, Jesus Christ, the true value of life’s most precious item far surpasses any material possession. In Matthew 16:26, He says:

“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?”

JESUS

Let’s take a moment to ponder this profound statement.

The Value of the Soul

Jesus’ question challenges us to reconsider our priorities. He implies that one can amass all the wealth and possessions the world has to offer and still suffer a tremendous loss—losing one’s soul. This verse underscores the unparalleled value of the soul.

“But what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” – Matthew 16:26

The Incomparable Worth of the Soul

For Jesus to make such a statement highlights the soul’s extraordinary importance. But what makes the soul so valuable?

  1. Eternal Significance: Unlike material possessions, which are temporary, the soul is eternal. It transcends the fleeting nature of earthly wealth and holds everlasting significance.
  2. Divine Creation: The soul is a unique creation of God, imbued with His image and breath of life. Its value is intrinsic and not dependent on external factors.
  3. Relationship with God: The soul’s value is also tied to its potential for a relationship with God. This relationship is the source of true fulfilment and purpose, far beyond what material possessions can provide.

We are too complex to have just happened by chance or random events. We are designed by purpose hence extremely valuable in the universe.

slavor

Reflecting on Priorities

Jesus’ words urge us to reflect on what we truly value. While it’s natural to seek comfort and security through material means, we must not lose sight of what is ultimately most important. Our souls—our very essence and being—are priceless and deserve our utmost care and attention.

Worth Thinking About?

In a world that often measures success by wealth and possessions, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 16:26 serves as a poignant reminder of the soul’s supreme value. It calls us to prioritize our spiritual well-being and seek a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. Nothing is worth more than our soul, and no worldly gain can ever compensate for its loss.

Have An Eternal (Long-Term) Value System

Understanding the immense value of the soul encourages us to embrace long-term value systems that transcend immediate gratification and material wealth. Here are key principles to guide us in cultivating these enduring values:

1. Spiritual Growth and Development

Investing in our spiritual growth is paramount. This involves nurturing our relationship with God through regular prayer, meditation, and studying the scriptures. Spiritual disciplines help align our lives with God’s purposes and foster inner peace and fulfilment.

2. Building Strong Relationships

The quality of our relationships significantly impacts our well-being and legacy. Cultivating genuine, loving relationships with family, friends, and community reflects God’s love and creates a supportive network that enriches our lives and the lives of others.

3. Pursuing Integrity and Character

Character and integrity are foundational to long-term success and fulfilment. Upholding honesty, kindness, and ethical behaviour not only honours God but also builds trust and respect with others. Our character shapes our destiny and leaves a lasting impact on those we interact with.

4. Service and Contribution

Serving others and contributing to the greater good aligns with the biblical call to love our neighbours as ourselves. Acts of service, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting charitable causes, reflect Jesus’ teachings and create a positive ripple effect in society.

5. Lifelong Learning and Growth

Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth enables us to adapt to life’s changes and challenges. Seeking wisdom, whether through education, experiences, or the counsel of others, helps us make informed decisions and grow in our understanding of God’s world.

6. Stewardship of Resources

Faithful stewardship of our resources—time, talents, and treasures—is crucial. This includes managing our finances wisely, using our abilities to serve God and others, and making time for what truly matters. Stewardship reflects gratitude for God’s blessings and ensures that our resources are used purposefully.

7. Legacy and Impact

Consider the legacy you wish to leave behind. Our actions and choices today shape the memories and impact we leave for future generations. Strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and truth, inspiring others to follow a path of righteousness and purpose.

Conclusion

Embracing long-term value systems rooted in spiritual principles ensures that we prioritize what truly matters. By focusing on spiritual growth, building strong relationships, pursuing integrity, serving others, committing to lifelong learning, stewarding our resources, and considering our legacy, we align our lives with God’s eternal purposes.

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 16:26 reminds us that no material gain can compare to the value of our souls. As we navigate life’s journey, let us keep our eyes fixed on the eternal and invest in what brings lasting fulfilment and honour to God.