IV. Where: Creating Environments for Evangelism
We need to understand "Where" evangelism takes place. The short answer is evangelism must occur where the Good News needs to be sown. Evangelism needs to happen where people need to be introduced to the God of the Bible. Where we evangelize is very important because it will help us to narrow down the places we would go if we were to plan. The task of evangelism can seem so big that we might give up before we start; therefore, if you are planning an evangelistic campaign, you have predetermined where to go. Without planning a campaign, you can create environments for evangelism to happen naturally.
It can be argued that evangelism needs to happen everywhere all the time. This is why Being Evangelism versus Doing Evangelism is so important. If we are "Being Evangelism," it is happening even if we haven't planned to do it. The Saint who is Being Evangelism is always prepared and creates the atmosphere to sow God's will into any discussion. Being Evangelism allows us to reflect on the Will of God on any topic, helping others see a worldview that accepts the existence of a sovereign God.
Planned evangelism is also ok and becomes more manageable if we are"Being Evangelism" because it is our natural state. However, a planned campaign can help sow the seed of God's Word in places we may have left unserved.
We need to understand "Where" evangelism takes place. The short answer is evangelism must occur where the Good News needs to be sown. Evangelism needs to happen where people need to be introduced to the God of the Bible. Where we evangelize is very important because it will help us to narrow down the places we would go if we were to plan. The task of evangelism can seem so big that we might give up before we start; therefore, if you are planning an evangelistic campaign, you have predetermined where to go. Without planning a campaign, you can create environments for evangelism to happen naturally.
It can be argued that evangelism needs to happen everywhere all the time. This is why Being Evangelism versus Doing Evangelism is so important. If we are "Being Evangelism," it is happening even if we haven't planned to do it. The Saint who is Being Evangelism is always prepared and creates the atmosphere to sow God's will into any discussion. Being Evangelism allows us to reflect on the Will of God on any topic, helping others see a worldview that accepts the existence of a sovereign God.
Planned evangelism is also ok and becomes more manageable if we are"Being Evangelism" because it is our natural state. However, a planned campaign can help sow the seed of God's Word in places we may have left unserved.
A. Always being prepared (2 Timothy 4:2)
Reflecting on 2 Timothy 4:2, evangelism is a calling that requires both readiness and adaptability. The scripture encourages us to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." This implies that evangelism is not a sporadic activity but a constant state of readiness to share the gospel. Whether favorable or challenging, believers are urged to share their faith boldly, patiently, and with discernment. This readiness signals the heart of an evangelist, where the urgency of sharing the Good News is ever-present, underpinned by an unwavering commitment to guiding others toward the transformative love of Christ.
Reflecting on 2 Timothy 4:2, evangelism is a calling that requires both readiness and adaptability. The scripture encourages us to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." This implies that evangelism is not a sporadic activity but a constant state of readiness to share the gospel. Whether favorable or challenging, believers are urged to share their faith boldly, patiently, and with discernment. This readiness signals the heart of an evangelist, where the urgency of sharing the Good News is ever-present, underpinned by an unwavering commitment to guiding others toward the transformative love of Christ.
B. Fostering environments that encourage spiritual conversations
Fostering a trusting environment is fundamental to evangelism, as it allows for open and honest discussions about spiritual realities. Such an environment is characterized by mutual respect, non-judgment, and a genuine interest in understanding others' perspectives. When individuals feel safe and valued, they are more likely to engage in conversations about faith, ask questions, and express their doubts or concerns. As believers, it is our responsibility to create these trust-rich spaces, exhibiting Christ's love through our words and actions and patiently listening to and addressing the spiritual queries of others. In these nurturing environments, the seeds of faith are often sown, watered, and allowed to flourish.
Fostering a trusting environment is fundamental to evangelism, as it allows for open and honest discussions about spiritual realities. Such an environment is characterized by mutual respect, non-judgment, and a genuine interest in understanding others' perspectives. When individuals feel safe and valued, they are more likely to engage in conversations about faith, ask questions, and express their doubts or concerns. As believers, it is our responsibility to create these trust-rich spaces, exhibiting Christ's love through our words and actions and patiently listening to and addressing the spiritual queries of others. In these nurturing environments, the seeds of faith are often sown, watered, and allowed to flourish.
C. Evangelism at Home
Evangelism should not be confined to far-flung missions or the public square. It begins at home, within the family unit. Parents are called to be the primary evangelists for their children, guiding and nurturing their spiritual development from an early age (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). Equally, children can channel God's love to their parents and siblings, living out their faith in daily interactions. By fostering a culture of open conversation about faith at home, families can support each other in their spiritual journeys and become each other's most vital witnesses.
Evangelism should not be confined to far-flung missions or the public square. It begins at home, within the family unit. Parents are called to be the primary evangelists for their children, guiding and nurturing their spiritual development from an early age (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). Equally, children can channel God's love to their parents and siblings, living out their faith in daily interactions. By fostering a culture of open conversation about faith at home, families can support each other in their spiritual journeys and become each other's most vital witnesses.
D. Evangelism in the Workplace
The workplace is another significant environment for evangelism. Christians are called to be 'salt and light' in their places of work, reflecting Christ's love in their interactions with colleagues, superiors, and clients (Matthew 5:13-16). This doesn't mean imposing our beliefs on others but rather showcasing the Gospel through our work ethics, attitudes, and the respectful way we treat others. It's about creating a godly influence that arouses curiosity and fosters opportunities for spiritual conversations.
The workplace is another significant environment for evangelism. Christians are called to be 'salt and light' in their places of work, reflecting Christ's love in their interactions with colleagues, superiors, and clients (Matthew 5:13-16). This doesn't mean imposing our beliefs on others but rather showcasing the Gospel through our work ethics, attitudes, and the respectful way we treat others. It's about creating a godly influence that arouses curiosity and fosters opportunities for spiritual conversations.
E. Evangelism in the Community
Lastly, our broader communities should be a field for evangelism. Whether it's our neighbors, the local grocery store owner, the gym trainer, or the parents at our kids' school, we have unique relationships with a variety of people (Mark 12:31). Our responsibility is to be prepared to share the gospel in ways that are respectful and meaningful to them. This can be through acts of service, community involvement, or simply by displaying a Christlike character in our daily interactions. By being a living testament of God's grace, we can encourage others to seek the transformation only Jesus can bring.
Lastly, our broader communities should be a field for evangelism. Whether it's our neighbors, the local grocery store owner, the gym trainer, or the parents at our kids' school, we have unique relationships with a variety of people (Mark 12:31). Our responsibility is to be prepared to share the gospel in ways that are respectful and meaningful to them. This can be through acts of service, community involvement, or simply by displaying a Christlike character in our daily interactions. By being a living testament of God's grace, we can encourage others to seek the transformation only Jesus can bring.
F. Evangelism Online
The internet has opened up a new evangelistic frontier in this digital age. With the power of social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and online forums, the gospel can be shared with a global audience at the click of a button (Matthew 28:19). Online evangelism allows us to connect with people we may never meet in person, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It's not just about posting Bible verses or sermon snippets; it's about engaging in thoughtful discussions, offering spiritual support, and creating a welcoming online community where faith can be explored. However, online evangelism also requires discernment and respect for diversity, ensuring that the message of Christ is shared in a way that is both impactful and respectful to the digital audience.
The internet has opened up a new evangelistic frontier in this digital age. With the power of social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and online forums, the gospel can be shared with a global audience at the click of a button (Matthew 28:19). Online evangelism allows us to connect with people we may never meet in person, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. It's not just about posting Bible verses or sermon snippets; it's about engaging in thoughtful discussions, offering spiritual support, and creating a welcoming online community where faith can be explored. However, online evangelism also requires discernment and respect for diversity, ensuring that the message of Christ is shared in a way that is both impactful and respectful to the digital audience.
Questions for chapter 4 - When: Creating Opportunities for Evangelism
- What is the difference between 'Being Evangelism' and 'Doing Evangelism'?
- Why is 'Being Evangelism' considered more natural?
- How does 2 Timothy 4:2 illustrate the preparedness required in evangelism?
- Why is fostering a trusting environment essential for evangelism?
- How can evangelism be practiced at home?
- How can Christians be 'salt and light' in the workplace?
- What are the opportunities and challenges of online evangelism?