Evangelism is undoubtedly one of the most controversial topics within the modern church today, yet one of the most fundamental practices of Christians since the formation of the church. It is rightly assumed that sharing the gospel was an essential Christ-commissioned way that the early church grew, and today is no different. In this article, we will address the essential nature of evangelism, the command of evangelism Jesus gives us, overcoming barriers of evangelism, and the basics of sharing the gospel.

“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8:4

Jesus leaves a great command or commission for his followers that has driven the direction and actions of the church ever since:

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20

This is a monumental command that Jesus gives his followers, and is consistent with the themes of the early church found in Acts and Paul’s letters to the Church. In the simplest way possible, in order to make disciples and teach people the way of Jesus, they must know the gospel.

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15

Even though scripture is clear about evangelism, remarkably few Christians ever share their faith. Why is this? There are two prominent reasons (or lies) that Christians believe that cause them to never share their the gospel:

1. Sharing the gospel is uncomfortable

2. Since God is sovereign, we don’t need to share the gospel

The first of these is extremely common. Naturally, bringing such a weighty life-changing message can be scary.