Evangelism

I've been doing quite a bit of reading lately on evangelism. I've always been drawn to evangelism. There are many reasons for that, some of which I may not even be aware of. After-all evangelism is one thing we most likely won't be able to do in Heaven.

Wikipedia defines evangelism as "...the practice of relaying information about a particular set of beliefs to others who do not hold those beliefs. The term is often used in reference to Christianity, where the scriptures often describe "evangelism" as "spreading the Gospel".

Some people equate evangelism with the "winning of souls for Jesus". But that is not correct. We don't and could never convert somebody. That is the work of the Holy Spirit. Rather as evangelist, we are mere conduit or tool used by the Spirit to do the convicting and converting.

I thought of this as I read through a few message boards on the internet, where there were conversations and debates about evangelism methods. Which methods are most effective? Effective at what? If the Spirit does the real work, than evangelists need to be true to the Gospel message and that it the foremost requirement. God will use you if you preach the true Gospel regardless of your showmanship, ability to entertain, etc. It's always nice to be able to draw and maintain a crowd, but since the Spirits work occurs within an individual, who is anyone to be snarky towards a person who knows the true Gospel and wants to share it...to individuals or in a street preaching fashion!

We should preach and evangelize primarily for the Glory of God. We should trust that the Spirit will do it's miraculous works inside the sinners heart. Opening their eyes to the Law, breaking their heart, and bringing about the gift of true Repentance. True Repentant Faith bringing remission of sins through Jesus' atoning work on the cross. This is a true conversion! We get to see God's mercy, grace, and kindness as He brings another of His children into the flock. Saving another Soul!!

If you want to be an evangelists who works his way up to street preaching, I would recommend training like the Way of the Master course. However, if they speak the true Gospel, than speak away, and may the Spirit use your words to save the lost.

After-all, it was D.T. Niles who said, "Evangelism is just one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread."