In our conversations about evangelism, we must be careful not to forget that it is a Spiritual Discipline. (For a quick refresher on what it means for something to be a Spiritual Discipline, read HERE.)
Among other things, the fact that evangelism is a Spiritual Discipline means that we must work to cultivate it in our lives. This requires effort and energy on our part. It’s interesting that both Luke 6:40 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 correlate this work to training – intentionally arranging our life around it, deliberately investing time and fortitude in the lives of unbelievers to share the gospel with them.
We must not rely on others to do the work. We must not sit waiting for opportunities to arise.
It is our responsibility to prepare and be ready.
God purposes that every Christian find ways to share the gospel with unbelievers.
At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
Colossians 4:3-6
4 Evangelism Essentials
1. PRAY
In his letter to the Colossians, Paul asked the Christian believers for their prayers (Colossians 4:3). He asked them to pray for opportunities for him to share the gospel. He also asked them to pray that he would proclaim the message clearly. This is a prayer we would do well to pray – for ourselves and for one another.
2. WALK IN WISDOM
In addition to asking for prayer, Paul exhorts the Colossian believers to “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders” (Colossians 4:5). Our evangelistic efforts require us to watch how we live, being sure our actions do not undermine the credibility of our witness for Christ. Here more discipline is required as we seek to live in such a way as to commend the gospel.
3. LIVE IN PURSUIT
In tandem with his exhortation to walk in wisdom, Paul urges the recipients of his letter to make “the best use of time” (Colossians 4:5). His words are meant to remind them that time is short. They should be filled with a sense of urgency. Of course, his words apply to us. Time is short. There is no time to sit. No room for apathy in the work. We must be active, intentionally pursuing opportunities to share the gospel of Christ with those around us.
4. BE GRACIOUS
We can discipline ourselves for the work of evangelism by praying, walking in wisdom, and living in pursuit. We can also discipline ourselves by being gracious in our speech. With words that are “gracious” and “seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6), we can be a blessing to unbelievers and help point them to Christ.
“Gracious” words are kind, considerate, courteous, and loving. They are not argumentative, thoughtless, or hateful.
Graciousness does not always come naturally. It involves forethought and preparation. It requires training and discipline of the tongue “so that [we] may know how … to answer each person” (Colossians 4:6).
Have You Trained?
On a scale of 1 to 10, where do you fall when it comes to training in evangelism? If it’s time for a little target training, consider one of the following ideas:
Immerse yourself in Colossians 4:3-6.
Study it, memorize it, mediate on it, research it, pray it.
Meditate on gospel truths.
- Mark 10:45
- Romans 5:8
- Romans 6:23
- Romans 8:1
- Romans 8:32
- 2 Corinthians 5:21
- 2 Corinthians 8:9
- 1 Timothy 1:15
- 1 John 4:10
- Revelation 5:9
Enlist a personal trainer.
Who do you know that is currently living out God’s call to share the gospel with unbelievers? Ask them to disciple you in evangelism over the next six months or year.
Read some good books on evangelism. (A small selection is listed.)
- The Gospel and Personal Evangelism by Mark Dever (9Marks)
- Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God by J. I. Packer
- Speaking of Jesus by J. Mack Stiles
- What is the Gospel? By Greg Gilbert (9Marks)
- God Space by Doug Pollock
Take a free course. (A brief list is provided.)
- Evangelism (Dallas Theological Seminary Free Online Course)
- Explaining Christianity (Capitol Hill Baptist Church Free Core Seminar)
- Two Ways to Live (Capitol Hill Baptist Church Free Core Seminar)
Examine your schedule and life circles.
Time is short. Intentionally pursue opportunities to share the gospel with others by examining your schedule to pinpoint where you spend your time. Then actively search for places in your daily life rhythms where you can spend time with the unbelievers in your circles. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to share the gospel with them.
