Topic 3 - Evangelism Overview

Evangelism Overview

• Evangelism communicates God's love, offering reconciliation from sin and Satan.
• Saved individuals are called to serve as instruments of salvation for others.
• All believers possess the ministry of reconciliation, referenced in 2 Corinthians 5:17-21.

Salvation and Purpose

• True salvation comes with the responsibility to share the message of reconciliation with those who are lost.
• Philippians 1:22-24 illustrates the balance between the desire for eternal life and the obligation to serve others.
• The mission of Jesus emphasizes the necessity of evangelism: "to seek and save the lost" (Luke 19:10).

Jesus' Commitment to Evangelism

• Jesus demonstrated a selfless commitment to His mission, prioritizing it over His personal needs (John 4:31-35).
• He stressed the urgency of evangelism, focusing on the spiritual harvest.

Four Mission Fields of Evangelism

• Jesus laid out a strategy for evangelism in Acts 1:8, including:
  • Jerusalem: Local outreach, facing challenges like familiarity and preconceived notions.
  • Judea: Engaging one's ethnic group and broader community.
  • Samaria: Regional outreach, focusing on neighboring countries.
  • The Utmost Parts of the World: Cross-cultural missions reaching distant lands.

Challenges in Modern Evangelism

• Digital disconnection may impede genuine engagement; modern methods can alienate individuals from real-world interactions.
• Proverbs 11:30 highlights that wisdom is vital for effective evangelism, emphasizing the significance of soul-winning.

Importance of Wisdom in Evangelism

• Extensive prayer and research are essential for understanding local contexts prior to evangelistic efforts.
• James 1:5 promises that God generously grants wisdom to those who ask.

Strategies for Research and Preparation

• Libraries and Museums: Utilize various libraries for insightful information.
• Books: Consult travel and factual guides for understanding specific cultures and populations.
• Search Engines: Employ platforms for extensive topic research.
• Specialized Websites: Use Wikipedia for easily accessible information.
• Field Trips: Engage with local communities to gather meaningful insights.
• Media Sources: Keep track of current events through newspapers and news outlets.

God's Assurance in Evangelism

• Psalm 2:8 encourages believers to seek divine guidance and heritage for evangelistic endeavors.
• A variety of resources are available to enhance evangelism, all aimed at glorifying God.