What is your understanding of personal evangelism? When we consider this topic, we are dealing with a subject absolutely essential to the health and growth of the Lord’s church in every community. So, what is it? Simply put, personal evangelism is taking the work of sowing and watering the seed of the kingdom personally, so that God may give the increase (1 Cor. 3:6). It is a command that every Christian should be doing (Mark 16:15). Therefore, let’s consider some deeper thoughts on the subject.
Personal evangelism is serving others, just as Paul wrote, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Cor. 4:5). As it has been said before, “People do not care how much we know, until they know how much we care,” and we may serve our neighbors physically, but ultimately, our true service is teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:10). In doing so, we show them how much we care because we want them to be saved and go to heaven with us.
Personal evangelism is listening. As we listen to others, we demonstrate a sincere interest in their concerns. Consider Jesus Christ; He was the Master at teaching because He was the Master at listening. For example, in the case of the woman at the well (John 4), trust was established due in part to Jesus’ willingness to listen and reply based on what was being said. Therefore, we must follow our Lord in this way as well.
Personal evangelism is using our knowledge, skill, and motivation to succeed in soul winning. Peter connected these three aspects together in 1 Peter 3:15: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear…” We are able to teach because of knowledge. We are able to give a defense because of skill. We are always ready because we are motivated to be. Brethren, we can know the Bible completely, but if we are not motivated to share it or if we cannot/will not share it with the right skill, our knowledge will be useless to others. As faithful Christians and servants of God, our ultimate motivation should be to help others see their spiritual condition in the mirror of God’s Word (Jas. 1:18-25).
-John Garza