Introduction
A couple of weeks ago, we connected the events of the Exodus to the biblical call for evangelism. This call belongs to the church as a whole. While churches can organize and carry out large-scale evangelism efforts, there is much evangelism that happens in the ordinary, everyday life of individual Christians. God has placed each of us in our own circles—among family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. These are the fields where the Lord has sent us, and they are often ripe for harvest.
The purpose of this post is to offer five simple encouragements as you pursue the work of sharing Christ.
Five Encouragements for Evangelism
1. Build Meaningful Relationships
Not every context allows time to build relationships (street preaching, for example), but most of us have opportunities to invest in others slowly and intentionally. Share meals. Pay attention to needs. Participate in shared activities or interests. Relationships create natural pathways for spiritual conversations—and for trust.
2. Share Your Story
Sharing your story is part of what Scripture calls witnessing. Tell others what God has done in your life through Jesus (see John 9:25). The point is not to draw attention to yourself, but to point people to Christ and His grace. Be honest about struggles and about how the Lord has met you in them. Your life is one of the clearest testimonies you have.
3. Pray, Pray, Pray
Prayer is essential to evangelism. Pray in three ways:
- Pray for boldness.
If the apostles needed to pray for courage (Acts 4:23–30), surely we do as well. Fear is one of the greatest barriers to evangelism. - Pray for opportunities.
Ask the Spirit to make you attentive to the people He is already placing in your path. The harvest is plentiful (Matt. 9:37–38). - Pray for those you are witnessing to.
Pray that God would soften hearts, open eyes, and draw them to Christ. Pray for their needs. Pray for healing. Pray that all of it would lead them to Jesus.
4. Speak the Word
In all your evangelism, be sure to speak the Word of God. We must lovingly and clearly speak about sin, judgment, and the reality of eternal separation from God. Remember two truths:
- Everyone knows that God exists.
- Everyone needs Christ.
This may feel uncomfortable and may seem to strain relationships—but God works through His Word, not our silence.
5. Trust the Lord
Conversion is the work of God alone. No amount of persuasion can make the heart believe. So do not become discouraged if someone you are witnessing to does not respond right away. The Lord may be using you to plant or water, while He appoints someone else to harvest (1 Cor. 3:6–7). Your task is faithfulness.
Conclusion
The mission of Holy Covenant Church is to equip the saints to disciple the nations. Discipleship begins with conversion, and conversion comes as God uses ordinary believers—like you and me—to share the gospel with those we meet.
God used someone to call you to Christ. Now He calls you to do the same for others.
So go in grace, with confidence, patience, and love—and continue in this glorious work.