Key Scripture: Mark 16:15
We are in the last days and the love of many has waxed cold. Only few Christians are concerned about Evangelism and follow-up, which is the salvation and spiritual health of their siblings, neighbors, and coworkers. This study is a wakeup call to the lost art of evangelism and follow-up of sinners and backsliding saints.
I. UNDERSTANDING EVANGELISM AND ITS IMPORTANCE
A. Evangelism Defined:
Evangelism, as noted in the New Testament, comes from the Greek word ‘euangelion,’ which means gospel or good news. It is about sharing this good news of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The goal of evangelism is to share Jesus Christ’s salvation message and the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 1:16).
B. Why Evangelism is Crucial:
Evangelism is essential because Jesus commands us (Matthew 28:19-20). It’s our response to His great love and sacrifice for us. The Apostle Paul presents it as a sacred duty of every believer (Romans 10:10-15). Moreover, it’s through evangelism that people hear the good news and are offered a chance to believe (Romans 10:17).
II. BIBLICAL BASIS FOR EVANGELISM
A. Great Commission:
Jesus’ last instruction to His disciples, also known as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), forms the foundational command for Christian evangelism. This isn’t limited to a group of believers; it’s for all who believe in Christ.
B. Paul’s Mandate:
Paul considers evangelism a divine obligation, affirming in 1 Corinthians 9:16, Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! He continuously shared the message despite encountering challenges (Acts 20:24).
C. Story of Philip and Ethiopian Eunuch:
The story in Acts 8:26-40 emphasizes individual evangelism. Philip obediently went to the desert and there met the Ethiopian eunuch whom he introduced to Christ. Philip’s evangelism wasn’t organized or scheduled; it was an impromptu response to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
III. FOLLOW-UP AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE
A. Follow-up Defined:
Follow-up is about discipling and guiding new believers to grow in their faith and understanding of Christian doctrines (Matthew 28:19-20). It includes mentoring, teaching, encouragement, and helping new believers find their place in the Body of Christ. It also involves calling, visiting and getting concerned about believers how are growing cold in the things of God and those who are gradually leaving the assembly of saints!
B. Paul’s Example of Follow-up:
In Acts 14:21-23, we see how Paul revisits areas where he’d previously preached to strengthen and encourage the believers, illustrating the importance of follow-up in sustaining the faith of new converts.
C. Parable of Sower:
In Matthew 13:1-23, Jesus explains that not all hearts are receptive. Thus, the follow-up work is important to help new converts deepen their understanding, stand firm during persecution, and resist the lure of worldly attractions.
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IV. Encouraging Personal Evangelism and Follow-up
A. Recognize God’s heart for the Lost:
Scriptures like Luke 15:4-7 show us that God has a profound love for the lost. Understanding God’s heart for the lost should move us to participate in His work of salvation.
B. Overcome Fear:
2 Timothy 1:7 reassures us that we haven’t been given a spirit of fear. Recognizing that our faith can counteract fear encourages us to share the gospel boldly.
C. Building Discipling Relationships:
Once we’ve shared the gospel, we need to commit to disciple the new believers. Like Paul, who mentored Timothy, we must be prepared to invest time and energy into others’ spiritual growth (2 Timothy 2:2).
In conclusion, Evangelism and follow-up are essential aspects of our Christian faith and service. It’s a manifestation of our obedience and love towards Christ. As believers, we’re not only called to receive the gospel but to share it and make disciples among the nations, walking alongside them in their spiritual journey.