Evangelism – Is sharing the gospel about Jesus Christ.
I don’t recall exactly where I first saw this information, never the less; I found it appropriate to share at this time.
The work of the church has often been described as threefold
- Edification- equipping the saints for ministry (Eph 4:12, 16: 1 Thess 5:11)
- Benevolence – meeting the needs of destitute members ( James 2:1-17)
- Evangelism – spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to the lost (Mark 16:15-16)
Unless frequent attention is given to EVANGELISM, it can become easy for the church to neglect evangelistic efforts both as a congregation and as individuals; Thus far, it would be harmful to the spiritual life of the church. In the first century, believers made every effort to evangelize the word of God (Acts 8:4). Contrary to popular opinion, evangelism is sharing the gospel by all Christians, not just one group or party ( 1 Peter 2:9-10) We should be ever prepared to give a reason for our hope in Christ ( 1 peter 3:15 ).
Evangelism is therefore essential, not just for the saving of souls who need the gospel of Jesus Christ, but also for the saving souls who have the gospel of Jesus Christ. EVANGELISM is not something that should be turned on and off like a light bulb. Jesus says, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid” (matt 5:14). Evangelism, if it’s to be biblical must be a lifestyle.
When EVANGALISM ceases, Christians wither and are cut off for not bearing fruit (John 15: 1-8).