Evangelism. A misunderstood word. The dictionary defines it as preaching and spreading of the Gospel. It’s the responsibility of every church and every believer to evangelize…but how do we do that? That’s where the confusion comes in for many.
Let’s define the Gospel first. The word basically means the good news of Jesus’ teachings, life and redemptive work on the cross. We are commissioned by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 to spread this Gospel.
Let’s expose some myths about evangelism:
- Evangelism is not knocking on the doors of strangers and asking them to turn or burn.
- Evangelism is not a 13-step or 4-point plan.
- Evangelism is not a program of the church.
- Evangelism is not talking someone into praying a certain prayer.
- Evangelism is not leaving tracts in public restrooms.
- Evangelism is not getting someone to walk down an aisle or sign a decision card.
Evangelism is simply spreading the Gospel. It is sharing your faith. It takes many shapes, styles and forms. One of the best studies on this subject was done by Bill Hybels in Becoming A Contagious Christian. In this study, he identifies 6 styles of evangelism and backs them all up with Scripture. If you are a believer, you will definitely identify with 1 of these 6 styles. The good news is that you are not meant to feel guilty if you are not the same style of evangelist as Hybels, Graham or anyone else.
Evangelism is a process. Very few people accept the Gospel the first time they hear it. There is a time to push people for a decision to accept Christ…and there is a time when pushing too hard can push them further away. Whenever we are sharing our faith, we must be sensitive to what the Holy Spirit is telling us. We must remember that it’s not the power of our words that will bring someone to Christ…it’s the Holy Spirit convicting them in their heart of their need for a Savior. Don’t try to do the Spirit’s work.
As a pastor, I must lead the way in evangelism with my words and deeds. I must be developing relationships and sharing my faith with those who are not believers. I must be handing out church invitations to everyone I come in contact with. I cannot live my life in a “Christian bubble” and expect the church to do what I am not doing.
As believers, we must drop any excuses we have for not evangelizing. Anybody can tell their story of what God is doing in their life. Anyone can invite a friend or co-worker to church. Anybody can serve someone else in the name of Christ. It’s not the pastor’s job to evangelize…it is every believer’s responsibility.
One of the greatest joys in life is being God’s instrument to help bring someone into His kingdom. Are you experiencing that joy? Are you sharing your faith?
Matthew 28:19-20 “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.”
