What is evangelism?

"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. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." —Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT)

Evangelism is a word that refers to advocating for a specific cause. Regarding the Christian faith, we "evangelize" when we tell others about gospel of Jesus Christ—the good news that God loves people so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us from the punishment we deserve for our sins. He will save anyone who accepts His offer, has faith in what Jesus has done, and repents of their sins (John 3:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-9).

When we tell someone about Jesus, we're practicing evangelism. A Christian evangelist is literally a person who presents the good news of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:11).

Evangelism is a Gift

God has equipped certain people in leadership positions with special talents and responsibilities to evangelize. The Holy Spirit gives these believers the spiritual gift of evangelism (Ephesians 4:11-13). Missionaries take that gift to people around the world who need to hear it. Leaders in the church are also responsible for effectively sharing the gospel.

"You should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News and fully carry out the ministry God has given you." —2 Timothy 4:5 (NLT)

Evangelism is a Calling

Even though some believers are specifically gifted to evangelize, God still calls ALL His followers to share the gospel. We should recognize that we were once living in sin, separated from the God who gave us life. Now, we're surrounded by people who may be standing just where we were before we accepted Christ. We should want others to have what we have: God's love and freedom from judgment for our sins.

"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." —Romans 8:1

Some may be more excited about sharing the gospel than others. Some may be more naturally gifted to teach and explain God's Truth. But that doesn't mean God can't use the quiet, socially awkward believer to share the good news about Jesus. Every person's ability and opportunity are going to look different—and that's OK!

This isn't about "performance" or how big a crowd you can speak to. God isn't comparing you to anyone else. Evangelism is about having a willingness to talk to another lost human being about the greatest gift they could ever receive.

"Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done." —Psalm 105:1 (NLT)

How to Evangelize

"In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect..." —1 Peter 3:15

When we prepare ourselves to speak about our faith, we should start with humility (Colossians 3:12). We have no right to judge nonbelievers, for we were once lost too. What we understand as sin is not as serious to those who don't yet believe. Jesus came along and saved us from our sin when we didn't "get it" either. We belong to Him, and now we simply want others to have what we have.

How we share depends on who we are, where we are, and who we're talking to. We can share varying levels of God's light through our words and actions towards others, and that all "counts" as sharing Him with the world.

Evangelism can be a quiet conversation about Jesus over coffee with a friend or neighbor. Evangelism can be a kind word and a generous tip for the hardworking server who came to your table at lunch. Evangelism can be encouragement to a coworker whose family is struggling. Evangelism can be the offer of hope in Jesus to an alcoholic who has finally hit rock bottom. Evangelism can be explaining to a curious acquaintance why you believe in intelligent design.

Evangelism is just talking about Jesus in ways that others can comprehend.

Only Jesus saves—that's the good news. But He invites us into the work of spreading that news to those around us. When we share Jesus, we share the very best that we have. The more we know and love Him, the easier it becomes to talk about Him with others.

ALSO SEE:

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• What does it mean that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life?
• Is Jesus the only way to Heaven?
• If evangelism is a gift, why does everyone have to do it?
• Will people go to hell if I don't share the gospel?
• What if I'm too shy to share the gospel?
• How do I get my loved one to accept Christ?
• What does it mean to "live out" my faith?
• A Beginner's Guide to Sharing the Gospel
• How can I evangelize without turning people away?
• What should I do if my parents won't let me share my faith?
• Why do people reject Christ as their Savior?
• How can I get over feeling rejected?
• Should I be prepared to step outside my comfort zone?