When people hear the term “evangelism,” they might picture someone shouting on a street corner about sin and punishment. However, true evangelism is about conveying the message that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins, offering eternal life to all who believe.
Evangelism can feel intimidating, like something only preachers, missionaries, or extroverts do. But the truth is, every believer is called to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Whether you’re seasoned in faith or just starting out, evangelism isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about faithfully pointing others to the One who is the answer.
At its core, evangelism is sharing the gospel—the message that Jesus Christ lived, died, and rose again to save sinners. It’s not about forcing conversions or winning arguments. It’s about planting seeds of truth, trusting the Holy Spirit to do the heart work.
As Paul writes in Romans 10:14–15, “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? … And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”
Evangelism is a joyful duty of every believer to speak of the glory of Christ and the grace of God, trusting in His sovereign will to draw His people to Himself.
How To Share The Gospel:
Step 1: Know the Gospel According to Scripture
The gospel message must be biblical, not cultural or emotional. A Reformed understanding includes these essential truths:
- God is holy and just – He is the Creator and Ruler over all, and His law reflects His righteous character (Isaiah 6:3).
- Man is totally depraved – Because of Adam’s sin, all mankind is born spiritually dead and unable to choose God apart from divine intervention (Romans 3:10–12; Ephesians 2:1–3).
- Christ is sufficient – Jesus lived a sinless life, fulfilled the law, died a substitutionary death, and rose again to secure salvation for His people (2 Corinthians 5:21; John 10:11).
- Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone – We are saved not by works, but by God’s grace, through faith that is itself a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8–9).
- God is sovereign in salvation – He effectually calls and regenerates the hearts of His elect (Romans 8:29–30; John 6:37, 44).
To evangelize rightly, we must ensure we are communicating God’s gospel—not a watered-down version that promises comfort without repentance.
Step 2: Pray with Confidence in God’s Sovereignty
Reformed believers don’t pray because they think they can change God’s plan—we pray because He ordains the means and the ends. Prayer is the humble acknowledgement that only God can raise the dead to life (John 6:63).
Pray:
- That God would give you opportunities.
- That He would prepare the hearts of those you speak to.
- That you would speak clearly and boldly.
- That He would bring the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6–7).
Step 3: Be Intentional in Your Relationships
You don’t need a platform to share the gospel—just faithfulness in your sphere. The Reformed life is marked by a deliberate, God-honoring walk that speaks volumes. Whether at work, in your home, or among friends, use your relationships to point others to Christ.
Let your speech be seasoned with grace and truth (Colossians 4:6). Don’t shy away from discussing sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8)—these are not harsh truths, but holy truths that reveal our need for a Savior.
Step 4: Share the Gospel Clearly and Without Compromise
When sharing Christ, speak plainly and biblically. Avoid sentimentalism or vague language. A gospel that omits sin, repentance, and Christ’s atoning death is not the gospel.
Use Scripture:
- Romans 3:23 – All have sinned.
- Romans 6:23 – The wages of sin is death.
- Romans 5:8 – Christ died for us.
- Romans 10:9 – Confess and believe.
You are not responsible for results. Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and trust God to do the saving.
Step 5: Leave the Results to God
This is where Reformed theology offers immense comfort. You are not trying to “win” people; you are bearing witness. The Holy Spirit alone regenerates hearts and grants faith (John 3:5–8). The doctrine of election reminds us that our labor is never in vain, because God will save His people (John 6:37).
“So will my word be which goes out from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty…” – Isaiah 55:11
We Are Called To Be Faithful
Evangelism isn’t about tallying conversions—it’s about glorifying God by proclaiming His truth. As Christians, we rest in the sovereignty of God and are emboldened by the knowledge that His Word never fails.
Every Christian is called to evangelize through personal witness. In Mark 16:15, Jesus instructs, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” This doesn’t mean forcefully pushing our beliefs onto others, but gently sharing our faith through conversations and actions.
Whether you’re speaking to a neighbor, a family member, or a stranger, remember: your role is to proclaim the gospel. God’s role is to transform the heart.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…” – Romans 1:16
So preach Christ, and preach Him crucified. That is our message. That is our mission.
Dawn Zauner 