| Introduction It seems weird to talk about the power of the Gospel in evangelism. Isn't evangelism by definition and etymology the proclamation of the Gospel to those who have not believed in Jesus Christ? Yes, evangelism is just that. However, the Church in North America has struggled a bit with that concept lately. The Church has labeled evangelism things that are good things and we must be involved in, but that are not evangelism. Things such as social action and holy living have become the end all in evangelism. I am sure you have heard the saying attribute to Francis of Assisi often repeated in Christian circles, "Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words." It sounds really good. The only problem with it is that it is a false statement. Holy living may be a means to get to the gospel and evangelism, but it is not the same thing. Not only the Church in general has struggled a bit with actually evangelizing, but also we as individuals. Telling people about Jesus tends not to be at the forefront of our minds. It is not the type of activity that we generally look forward to. So we too need to be awakened to the power of the Gospel in evangelism. I. Why is it that we are not so into evangelism? A. I think it is fair to say that we are not naturally inclined to it. B. We are not so eager to share Christ with other and there might be several reasons for that, which may be brought under two major categories: the fear of man and unbelief. C. In each case, we need to repent from unbelief and turn to Christ. D. Our testimony must be that of Paul: I am persuaded of the Gospel. 2 Tim. 1:12 – For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. II. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation Rom. 1:16 – For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. A. This Gospel is even powerful enough to save you and me! 1 Tim. 1:15 – This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. B. So we proclaim the Gospel to those who don't believe because, if we don't, they will perish in their sins, 10:14, 17. C. What is it exactly that we proclaim? The word of faith, 10:8. D. In all of this, we see the power of the Gospel in saving people: whoever believes will not be put to shame, and the Lord is rich to all who call upon his name, and whoever calls on the name on the Lord will be saved, 10:11-13. III. So we must proclaim the Gospel, 10:14. A. We are fast approaching a post-Christian culture in which people have no notion of what the Bible says. B. So, just saying that Jesus is the answer may not be enough. C. Even today's atheists are different than a few decades ago. D. So, we must give them the whole storyline of redemption. Conclusion Paul was certain of the power of the Gospel to save people. We must be convinced of it as well. If we going to disciple the nations, we must be sold out to the power of the Gospel in evangelism.  | |||
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Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Power of the Gospel in Evangelism
