If evangelism is a spiritual gift, why does everyone have to do it?
"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit." —Matthew 28:19 (NLT)
All believers receive special spiritual talents from the Holy Spirit, according to God's good purposes (1 Corinthians 12:7-11). He gives specific spiritual gifts to different Christian leaders to support the church and each other (Ephesians 4:11-14). Evangelism is one of those special spiritual gifts and is the ability to effectively share the gospel—the good news that Jesus offers forgiveness from our sins and restoration with God.
So, for some, evangelism may be an actual career—a vocational or bi-vocational calling. Missionaries travel abroad to reach those who have no chance of hearing about Jesus. Locally, outreach ministers share Jesus's offer with the unhoused, prisoners, home-bound, and anyone they meet. Digitally, we at 412teens and Got Questions Ministries share God's truth online to whoever can access our resources.
What if evangelism isn't my gift?
Since the Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different Christians, why would He expect ALL of us to do the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5)? Why can't we just use our OWN spiritual gifts?
Our least favorite response from a parent might be, "Because I said so!" So frustrating, right? When it comes to the "why" behind why we should share the gospel with others, it's easy to say, "Because Jesus said so" (Matthew 28:19). But let's not stop there.
It's true that not everyone is going to be a Christian leader. Not everyone is going to visit foreign countries, prisons, or transient camps to share the gospel. But we're all still human beings living on this earth, interacting with our families, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and even strangers we encounter in daily life.
These are all people who need to know about God and His love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. And we have the unique opportunity to reach those who may never speak to a missionary or who have never visited a church in their lives. You may be the first Christian they've ever met. What a privilege to be able to present to them Christlikeness and a message of hope!
What if evangelizing doesn't come naturally?
We may not be able to speak eloquently or passionately about our faith, but there are so many other ways we can show how Jesus loves. We can be a living example of Christ's character (Matthew 5:16), encourage others (Galatians 6:2), show generosity (Isaiah 1:17), and practice humility that comes from wisdom (James 3:13).
"You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." —Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)
Jesus connected with people one-on-one (John 3:1–21) and in large crowds (Matthew 4:25). The earliest disciples preached in the synagogues where people gathered (Acts 13:14–16; 14:1; 17:2; 18:4), in the streets (Acts 17:16–34), and in people's homes (Acts 10:24–25; Luke 5:29).
The people in your life have YOU. When we live like Jesus, others are drawn to us. No one needs a seminary degree to demonstrate Christlike love and compassion. Nor do we need to be in full-time ministry to reach those around us.
Reflecting Jesus' love, patience, charity, and genuine concern will always be more persuasive than cliches and platitudes anyway. Evangelism isn't rocket science. Evangelism is love. You can do this.
ALSO SEE:
- What is the gospel?
- What is evangelism?
- How can I evangelize without turning people away?
- Will people go to hell if I don't share the gospel?
- What are spiritual gifts?
- How can I tell what my spiritual gifts are?
- How does God decide who gets what spiritual gift?
- A Beginner's Guide to Sharing the Gospel
- Too Shy to Share the Gospel?
- Is sharing your faith worth it?
- Why should I talk about my faith at school?
- When Parents Won't Let Their Kids Preach
- How do I get my loved one to accept Christ?
- What does it mean to "accept Christ"?
TL;DR
God calls all believers to share the gospel. While it may be easier for some than for others, every believer can tell the people in their lives about salvation through Jesus. When we live like Jesus, others are drawn to us. No one needs a seminary degree to demonstrate Christlike love and compassion. Nor do we need to be in full-time ministry to reach those around us. Reflecting Jesus' love, patience, charity, and genuine concern will always be more persuasive than cliches and platitudes. Evangelism isn't rocket science. Evangelism is love.
