When you hear or read the words, “evangelism” or “witnessing,” how does it make you feel? For some, they will break out in sweat or hives, or even in to a full-blown panic attack! I remember when I first became a Christ follower. I was bubbling with excitement and the church group I was with was easy to share this good news with. After all, they were on the retreat with me and saw this change. However, when we went home and I went to school, my old self kept trying to win control and keep me from sharing the great news I heard that weekend. What if they thought I was crazy? What if I lost my “cool” status? Maybe I should just stay hidden – be a covert Christian. It took a little bit of time and lots of God sent opportunities before I became comfortable about sharing the love of Jesus with others. And what I found was while many may politely listen, some would grab on to the message. No one ever became hostile, aggressive, or any of the many other scenarios I created in my head.
Why should we evangelize or witness to what Jesus has done for us? Can’t the preachers and Elders do it? The thought of talking to someone else about Jesus may really scary, but it can be simple and more natural than you think.
First, we are commanded to spread the good news.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20).
Peter echoes this in his epistle, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:15)
Second, people that don’t know Jesus are lost and spiritually sick.
In Matthew, Jesus sees people (and to quote an old Christian song, People need the Lord) “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:36-38)
Just as when we are physically sick we seek a good physician to bring healing, people need the Great Physician to bring healing to their souls and give them new life.
Evangelizing is not an option but a necessity. It’s not the Great Suggestion, it’s the Great Commission.