When you think of the term evangelism, what picture flashes onto the wall of your mind? A large stadium filled with people? A small booklet with a set of diagrams? A Christian wearing a pin with the symbol of a fish? A zealous believer playing intellectual chess with a pagan opponent? A salesman convincing a reluctant person to "try Jesus"?
Evangelism is a 10-letter dirty word to some of us. While we think it’s a dandy idea for others, we’re sure it isn’t for us. We’re not cut out to sell, nor shrewd enough to play intellectual games with non-Christians.
Evangelism, though, isn’t about being a huckster who cons people into buying what they don’t need. It has nothing to do with grabbing people by the lapels and shoving on them a faith that goes no deeper than the shirt pocket. What a grim indictment resides in the remark, "You could identify the people she had witnessed to by their haggard look."
Evangelism is simply sharing with others what we know about Jesus. "We do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord" (2 Corinthians 4:5). No tricks. No deception. Speak the truth, the whole truth, nothing but the truth – in love. Then leave the results with God. – Haddon Robinson
It’s not our task to force God’s truth
On those who may the truth detest,
But we are asked to share Christ’s love
And let God’s spirit do the rest. – D. De Haan
READ: 2 Corinthians 4:3-7
We who know the joy of salvation should not keep it to ourselves.
The Bible in one year:
• Isaiah 43-44
• 1 Thessalonians 2