Evangelism is not dead

Evangelism is not dead. Perhaps, in some ways, we act as if it were. We get easily bogged down in fear or worry over what others will think of us, and we act as if the power and effectiveness of evangelism is completely gone. On our recent trip to Montana to continue the church planting process of fostering connections and relationships in Missoula, I was reminded that the power of evangelism is still present and just as effective as the early church.

All of us are called by Christ to be evangelizers of the Gospel as His disciples. That process might look different in various regions and cultures, but it should not be something that we neglect to do. I want to give us three encouragements about the power of evangelism.

Number One - Evangelism works regardless of where you live.

Sometimes, we make statements like “The soil here is really hard,” or “There is not much fruit to be seen in this area.” While there is perhaps some wisdom in looking at the cultural context that you are in, every place with sinners is hard ground because there is no spiritual life. And yet, despite the hardness of the soil, evangelism still works. Churches still reach people, individuals still see friends come to saving faith, and family members see lives changed by the Gospel. Geographical dividing lines do not contain the power of the Spirit and the Gospel. Yes, each area may have its unique challenges, but they are no match for the power of the Gospel. Consider the Apostle Paul — no matter where he went, he preached the Gospel and people got saved! The Gospel will work. We just need to be active in sharing it.

Number Two - Don’t get discouraged when it takes time

One of the most encouraging and discouraging passages of Scripture for me is Acts 16:30. You are no doubt familiar with it: "What must I do to be saved?” In this powerful moment, we see Paul and Silas in prison being asked about the Gospel, and the Philippian jailer accepts Christ. Whoa, what a moment! So encouraging to see the Gospel work in such a difficult spot, but also so discouraging because I have never had an opportunity where someone has requested me to tell them how to get saved. The temptation can be, “What am I doing wrong?” Friends, we may have an opportunity like this, but often the path to salvation is slow and methodical. It is taking time to answer questions and break down cultural ideas that are not biblical. Our consistent investment in those around us with the Gospel, even if it takes time and does not appear to be creating fruit, is not wasted effort! Be patient and faithful in creating Gospel conversations, trusting that the Spirit is working in those moments! Don’t get discouraged sowing the seed!

Number Three - Look for opportunities to create curiosity

Take a minute and read Colossians 4:5-6. Paul, in these verses, is encouraging the believers there to consider their actions and testimony toward those around them. He is encouraging them to pursue wisdom in our actions toward unbelievers while taking hold of the opportunities that we have for Gospel witness. It echoes the teaching of Christ in Matthew 5:14-16 that we ought to be a light to those around us, letting them see our good works that glorify God. How do we generate curiosity? Well, Scripture calls us to deal with one another in love. Our love for one another will identify us as followers of Christ and draw others to Him (John 13). The good that we do for others can draw them closer to Christ. We generate curiosity in others through the “why” behind our actions. Why would someone move across the country to start a church— because that seems really dumb from a financial perspective? Why would someone be involved in foster care? Why would you serve at a food pantry? Why would you give to missions? Why would you show kindness to someone who is an atheist? Why would you invite the person with a pride flag outside their house over for dinner? Because we do good and show love not because there has to be a specific result gained from it, but because we want to glorify Christ. 

Evangelism still works. The reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. Let’s continue to move forward, sharing Christ and His love with those around us. Let’s keep declaring the Gospel even if the results seem sparse. The power of the Gospel has not and will not fail; we simply must be faithful in declaring it.

Serving together,

Pastor Derek