We want to be a church, therefore, which ministers to the hungry, the searching and those who do not understand as yet the riches of Christ. We want to see growth, among others, with those converting to Christ. How will they come to Redeemer? God has entrusted to each of us the enormous privilege and responsibility of sharing the gospel with them. The following are some words which help sketch the contours of personal evangelism.

Organic: Evangelism is a mindset and a lifestyle, not a program. It is people touching people with the grace of the gospel. It happens where you live, shop, play and work. It happens naturally in the context of…

Relationship: The gospel makes no sense to the natural man, and therefore must be demonstrated and interpreted. An unbeliever coming to church for the first time can’t be expected to know what is going on. But he ought to see something of the gospel in your life. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association reports that most people (90%) come to faith in the context of a personal relationship, versus some sort of event. Friends bring friends to church. Therefore, cultivate friendships: make a friend, be a friend, win a friend. As you invite friends or neighbors to church, plan to follow-up to interpret what is being said and done. Biblical truth sparks many questions and concerns. It is our privilege to be with people as they search out the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Prayer: Prayer is foundational, not supplemental. No change happens in people apart from the gracious working of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must pray to be led by the Spirit, and for the Spirit to work in the hearts of those to whom we minister. Jesus said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore, beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” (Matt. 9:37-38) Paul asked that prayer be made “that God may open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ…” (Col. 4:3) When we pray let’s expect God to provide opportunities that are both…

Spontaneous and planned: Expect the Lord to give you divine appointments, those instances where he puts a person in your path and one thing leads to another for a discussion that may include the gospel. Also, as you ask Jesus to give you open doors, expect him to bring ideas to mind that create evangelistic opportunities. Share your ideas and strategies with one another, and partner together. Plan a neighborhood desert for a newcomer; have neighbors over for dinner or desert; have coffee with a co-worker. Invite neighbors to a Christmas party and see what relationships develop form there. There are many things such as this to try.

Motive: Finally, remember that evangelism’s goal is not simply the salvation of lost people; it is for God’s glory. Everyone you speak to owes God worship and ought to bow down to His lordship. God in Christ is worthy of the worship of every one of His creatures. We ultimately share the good news for His name’s sake.