Evangelism: What it is, Why it Matters, and Helpful Strategies
What is evangelism? Evangelism is sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others. The category of “others” includes anyone and everyone: lost people, wanderers, people of another religion, Christians, family members, etc. Evangelism involves both words and actions. We share the Word of God with our mouths, and we follow up by emphasizing what we have shared with our actions to those around us. Evangelism can be done anywhere and everywhere: on a mission trip to another country, on a mission trip to another state, at home, at school, in your hometown, at church, etc.
Why does evangelism matter? Evangelism matters because it is a calling and command given to us as Christians by Jesus Himself. Part of CGOM’s mission statement includes Matthew 28:18-20, also known as the Great Commission, which says:
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.””
Matthew 28: 18-20
This passage and many others, including Mark 16:15, Acts 20:24, Romans 1:16, Psalm 105:1, and 1 Peter 3:15 discuss the importance of evangelism as a key part of the Christian life. Evangelism is a lifestyle and a mindset. Evangelists are always looking for a chance the share Jesus with others. Their life is evident of the presence of God. They exude Jesus’ love and hope.
Evangelism is important because it is an outpouring of the love and adoration we have for Jesus and all that He has done for us. We should want to share the best part of our lives with others so that they can experience His goodness and faithfulness, too. If we never share, how will they know? Why wait for someone else to do it when we have already been called to go first?
There are plenty of excuses that we can make as to why we should not or cannot evangelize. “I don’t want to offend anyone/force my religion upon them” or, “I have already tried talking to them and they were not receptive” are two common thoughts that Christians have, given the current circumstances in modern day. People still need Jesus. Jesus never stopped working or sharing or teaching or loving, and neither did his disciples or Paul the apostle. They were in danger for sharing about Jesus. They got rejected time and time again. There is no reason why we cannot evangelize with love.
Jesus never said, “If someone doesn’t believe you, then you can stop talking to them about me” or “if the world tells you that you are crazy, inappropriate, or wrong, then you can stop evangelizing.” Nor did he say, “if it is illegal to speak My Name, don’t speak My Name” or “if you are in danger, don’t share the gospel.” NO. He said nothing of the sort. There are no ifs or buts. Jesus said speak My Name. He said share the good news with all people. He said tell people about me. He commanded us to do. We have to take God at His Word. We must read what the Bible says.
Helpful Evangelism Strategies:
1. Never argue. Evangelism is not about winning a debate, it is about someone’s eternity.
2. If you are close with the person you’re speaking to, express how much they mean to you. Let them know that they matter to you and that they are important.
3. Invite them to church with you. Offer to take them out to lunch afterwards or give them a ride to and from. Tell them that it’s no pressure, you just think it’s worth checking out.
4. If you are not close to the person you are speaking to, consider building a more trusting relationship before you share Jesus.
5. Talk about life – struggles, thoughts, worldview, etc. It is a great opener to sharing the gospel.
6. Show Jesus with your actions. Love that person intentionally. Meet them where they are.
7. If they identify with a different religion, talk about what each of your religions have in common and go from there. Establish a common ground to build upon. The person will appreciate that you care to listen to their viewpoint rather than only focusing on your own. Show them what makes Jesus better (different).
8. For someone who has never heard the name of Jesus, the Romans Road, the Three Circles method, and your personal testimony are three great strategies to utilize. Be sure to speak clearly and slowly, covering every key detail. Practice with a Christian friend or family member that can give you feedback. The ABC prayer is perfect for leading a new believer to salvation while helping them understand what they are doing and why.
9. The very best thing that you can do for someone who is lost is to pray continually for their salvation. Never stop trying to share Jesus with them – it’s okay to try again another time/
10. Act with caution. Know boundaries and social cues. Be loving and compassionate.
11. Let the other person speak as well – listen just as much as you speak. This will not only make them feel more comfortable, but it will also help you understand their thought process, background, and how to best speak to them based on their experiences.
12. Avoid the “turn or burn” tactic. Scaring people into salvation by only talking about hell is not the answer.
Have a specific evangelism question? Need guidance? Want more information? Need prayer for salvation? We would love to chat. Email us at support@christianglobaloutreach.org.
Did this blog pique your interest? Want to learn more? If so, follow the link to a blog that breaks down the difference between grace and mercy, a helpful resource for evangelism:
Madison Burnette is a Religion major at Carson-Newman University. She is a Nashville native and an aspiring writer. In her free time, she enjoys watching sports, singing, reading, and trying local coffee shops with her friends. She has a heart for sharing the hope of Jesus with others through her platform. Her favorite Scripture is Psalm 73: 25-26.
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