John Dickson spoke at Baker Book House the other day on the topic of evangelism, and offered this helpful principle: Gospel living is the context for Gospel speech. In other words, our message has more force as people are able to see how the Gospel informs our lives. It probably goes without saying that most people in the Church will not be knocking on the doors of random strangers in order to share the Gospel, but I hope some would consider it. But as far as church-wide evangelism goes, I would have all readers consider the following:
1. Evangelism will be most effective in the most natural contexts, and there are five places to look: where we work, where we live, where we play, our family, and divine appointments. Consider who God may be urging you to reach.
2. Evangelism is very multi-faceted and there are different stages of evangelism. For example, some may sow, others may cultivate, and some may even harvest. Nothing, no matter how small, is insignificant. Furthermore, people have different gifts. So there is room for creativity in the evangelistic task. Evangelism will look different for different people. So look for your own particular role to play in God's plan to spread the Gospel to others. Be intentional, and bring others into this exciting endeavor.
3. There are few things that make the Gospel more compelling to us than sharing it with others. Never forget that a true love for the Gospel naturally produces a genuine desire to share it with others. Let me ease your burden by reminding you that true evangelism is not burdensome, coercive, or mechanical. True evangelism is our spontaneous joy in the Gospel being expressed to others. God promises us that this kind of evangelism is possible. How are you growing in your love for the Gospel?
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