Just as an apple tree produces fruit that has the potential to grow another tree, so a righteous person can influence family and friends to follow them in the paths of righteousness. But what makes a faithful Christian able to win souls?
Christians win souls because they are wise (Pro. 11:30; Matt. 7:24-27). Our godly wisdom is more precious to the future of the Lord’s church than we may realize. As we grow and mature in the gospel of Christ, the challenge that we face is to use our knowledge in ways that will bring others to Christ (Jas. 3:13). However, we must understand that we will not convince every soul, just as Paul did all that he could and saved some (Rom. 11:14), and Noah preached for one hundred and twenty years and saved eight (Gen. 6:3; 1 Pet. 3:20). Soul winning is not about numbers. It is about being faithful to God, and if we are, souls will be won by our faithfulness.
Christians win souls because they are motivated. It begins in the heart and extends outward as God is on the throne of the heart (1 Pet. 3:15). Additionally, we are motivated by love and godly fear. They are never separate but joined together as the sincere reason for obeying and sharing the gospel. We do not share the terrifying message of hell because of hatred, but because of a deep love for the lost (2 Cor. 5:11; Jude 22-23). Finally, we are motivated by our sincere desire to serve God. We long to hear, “Well done, My good and faithful servant” and “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matt. 25:34). We will never hear a compliment greater than what will be uttered from the Savior of souls.
Christians win souls because they learn. God’s people each have unique abilities and strengths. However, this should not diminish growth but encourage it, as we work together to win souls. No one should expect to be an expert teacher before starting. No brother or sister expects this of us either. We WILL make some mistakes in evangelism, but remember, there will always be room for improvement. Just think of how many potential soul winners there are who have never tried win souls simply because they are afraid of making a few mistakes? Remember, the greatest mistake we will ever make is to do nothing.
-John Garza