EVANGELISM

REV. DR. E. Rajan

 

Evangelism, derived from the Greek word "euangelion," meaning "good news" or "gospel,"  ie Go and spell. Preaching good news.

Evangelism holds significant importance in Christianity as it is considered a central mandate for believers as a response to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

DEFINITION

Evangelism is proclaiming the Gospel – the good news about Jesus Christ which is God’s power to save all who believe it and turn from sin to follow him.

The Message of Evangelism:

1.       Prophecy fulfilled

Isaiah 7:14 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

 Micah 5:2“But you, Bethlehem  ..out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel,.”

Isaih 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.

2.      Christ came as our Saviour (Mark 1:14-15)

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23

3.      Christ died for our sins (1Cor. 15:1-4)

4.      You are the redeemed, saved Eph 2:5, John 1:12

5. Christ rose again to rule (1Cor. 15:4-7)
6. Christ will return to Judge (Rom. 2:16)

METHODS OF EVANGELISM:

Evangelism takes various forms, adapting to cultural, social, and individual contexts. Some common methods include:

Verbal Communication: Spreading the message through:

·         Personal Testimony:

·         Door-to-Door Outreach:

·         Literature and Distribution:

·         Apologetics:

Mass Evangelism

·         Community Outreach: Engaging in acts of kindness, charity, and community service to demonstrate the principles of one's faith.

·         Media and Technology: Utilizing modern platforms, such as television, radio, and the internet, to reach a wider audience and share the message globally.

Why Evangelism?

·         Jesus commanded it (Matt. 16:15) 

·         The apostles also commanded it (2 Tim. 4:2,5) 

·         Love for Others:

·         Obedience to God:

·         Bringing Glory to God:

·         Caring for the Lost:

·         Building the Church:

·         Through evangelism many people would be encouraged; because the gospel is the Good News 

·         Evangelism is an opportunity to work directly with (and for) God (Lk. 10:2) 

·         It precedes baptism and salvation (Mk. 16:16) 

·         It proves our love for our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ (Jn. 15:12-14) 

·         Evangelism opens the door for healing to take place (Luke 10:9) 

·         It is the gateway of repentance and remission of sins (Lk. 24:47) 

·         Brings understanding of Scriptures unto humanity (Acts 8:30) 

·         Evangelism causes the Holy Ghost to move (Acts 10:44) 

·         It is a fruit of righteousness (Pro. 11:30) 

·         Evangelism unites all nations, races, tribes and cultures by reconciling all humanity to God through Christ.

 

IMPACT OF EVANGELISM:

Spiritual Growth:

·         Personal Transformation:

·         Community Building

·         Social Change

·         Cultural Impact

·         Preparing the Church for His coming

CHALLENGES AND CRITICISMS:

·         Pluralistic society

·         Polythesism

·         Multiple culture

·         Multi Liguistic practice

·         Ethnic

·         Rich and poor

·         Casteism/ classes

·         Materiallism

·         Worldliness

·         Etc

Great Commission Promises Matthrew 28:16-20

·         God’s Power,

·         God’s Provision ,

·         God’s Presence,

·         God’s Victory