EVANGELISM

The divine ability to communicate the Good News of Jesus Christ to unbelievers in a positive, non-threatening way. The ability to sense opportunities to share Christ and lead people to respond with faith and move towards discipleship.

Ephesians 4:11

DISTINCTIVES:

• Witness versus Evangelism: Witnessing differs from evangelism in that witnessing provides an explanation for what we believe. We are all called to be a witness in Peter 3:15 where the Lord tells us to “give a reason for the hope that lies within.” Every believer is a witness who is instructed to respond to opportunities to share their faith.

• An Evangelist creates the opportunity to share the Gospel.

• Communicate the Gospel with poise, clarity and effectiveness

• View discipleship as evidence of true conversion

• Adapt the Gospel presentation to the individual needs

• Enjoy spiritual conversation/interaction with anyone who will listen.

CAUTIONS:

• Your passion temperament/passion will dictate the way in which your Evangelistic gift is used; it may not be on a street corner but more one on one.

• Don’t expect instant results.

• Carefully evaluate whether it’s your passion for a few people close to you or truly the gift of evangelism.

• If you have a general view or personal commitment to share with whoever will listen, you are probably an Evangelist.

• Don’t used a canned approach.

• Understand and know the Gospel well enough to address each person’s needs.

• Don’t expect others to have your gift or to understand your enthusiasm for sharing God’s message.