EVANGELISM
Definition:
The Christian Meaning of “Evangelism”
Evangelism is the Christian act of proclaiming the good news (evangelion) of Jesus Christ — His life, death, resurrection, and the salvation He offers.
It is both:
A message — the gospel
A mission — the sharing of that message
Evangelism is not coercion, argument, or manipulation. It is bearing witness to what God has done and inviting others into the life of Christ.
SCRIPTURAL FOUNDATIONS
A. The Great Commission
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19–20
Evangelism is central to Christian obedience
Jesus’ final command is a global, lifelong mission.
This truth shows that evangelism is not optional — it is foundational.
You can participate in Christ’s mission wherever you are.
B. Empowered by the Holy Spirit
“You will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8
The Spirit empowers evangelism
Evangelism is impossible without the Spirit’s power.
This truth reveals that God equips those He sends.
You can rely on the Spirit for courage, clarity, and conviction.
C. Necessary for People to Meet Christ
“How will they believe… without someone preaching?” — Romans 10:14–15
Evangelism is God’s means of reaching people
The gospel must be heard to be believed.
This truth shows that evangelism is an act of love.
You can share Christ knowing God uses your words.
D. Representing Christ to the World
“We are ambassadors for Christ…” — 2 Corinthians 5:20
Evangelism is representing Christ
Believers speak on Christ’s behalf.
This truth reveals the dignity and responsibility of witness.
You can live as Christ’s representative in every sphere of life.
WHAT EVANGELISM IS
A. Proclaiming the Good News of Jesus
Who Jesus is
What He has done
Why it matters
How people can respond
This truth shows that evangelism is Christ‑centred.
You can share the gospel simply by telling the story of Jesus.
B. An Invitation to Relationship
Repentance
Forgiveness
New identity
Restored relationship with God
Transformed life
This truth reveals that evangelism is relational, not merely informational.
You can invite others into the life you’ve found in Christ.
C. Empowered by the Holy Spirit
The Spirit opens hearts — Acts 16:14
The Spirit gives courage — Acts 4:31
The Spirit convicts — John 16:8
This truth shows that evangelism is God’s work through you.
You can trust the Spirit to do what you cannot.
D. A Lifestyle, Not Just a Moment
Conversations
Acts of love
Hospitality
Justice
Prayer
Integrity
This truth reveals that evangelism is woven into daily life.
You can preach the gospel with your life even before your words.
THE MESSAGE OF EVANGELISM (THE GOSPEL)
Evangelism communicates:
God created and loves humanity
Sin breaks relationship with God
Jesus died and rose again to reconcile us
Salvation is a gift received by faith
God invites us into new life and eternal hope
This truth shows that evangelism is sharing the greatest news in history.
You can offer hope that transforms lives.
INSIGHTS FROM INFLUENTIAL CHRISTIANS
Billy Graham: Evangelism is the heartbeat of the Church
John Stott: We share the gospel because God is faithful
J.I. Packer: Evangelism persuades without manipulating
Spurgeon: True Christians desire others to be saved
D.L. Moody: One beggar telling another where to find bread
N.T. Wright: Evangelism announces Jesus as Lord of new creation
David Bosch: Evangelism witnesses to God’s reign in Christ
This truth reveals that evangelism is central to Christian identity across history.
You can join this legacy of faithful proclamation.
FORMS OF EVANGELISM
Personal evangelism — everyday conversations
Public evangelism — preaching, teaching, events
Relational evangelism — trust‑based sharing
Missional evangelism — living intentionally among others
Lifestyle evangelism — actions that reflect Christ
Prophetic evangelism — Spirit‑led words without manipulation
This truth shows that evangelism takes many forms.
You can evangelize in ways that fit your gifts and context.
WHAT EVANGELISM IS NOT
Not pressure or guilt
Not winning arguments
Not forcing beliefs
Not cultural imperialism
Not “saving people” — only God saves
This truth reveals that evangelism is faithfulness, not force.
You can share Christ gently, respectfully, and confidently.
SHORT DEFINITION
EVANGELISM The Spirit‑empowered proclamation and demonstration of the good news of Jesus Christ, inviting others into relationship with Him and participation in His kingdom.
IN DAILY LIFE: PRACTICING EVANGELISM
1. Live a Gospel‑Centred Life
Daily Application
Let kindness, integrity, and joy reflect Christ Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15
Avoid hypocrisy
Treat every encounter as an opportunity for love
Why This Matters
Your life is often the first sermon people hear.
Encouragement
Consistency shines like a star in a dark world.
2. Speak the Good News Boldly
Daily Application
Share what Jesus has done in your life Romans 1:16; 1 Peter 3:15
Use natural conversations
Explain your faith simply and relationally
Why This Matters
People need to hear the hope you carry.
Encouragement
God uses ordinary words to change eternal destinies.
3. Pray and Rely on the Holy Spirit
Daily Application
Ask the Spirit for guidance and courage Acts 1:8; John 16:8
Pray for opportunities and open hearts
Depend on God, not your abilities
Why This Matters
Evangelism is God’s work through you.
Encouragement
The Spirit empowers what you cannot do alone.
4. Build Relationships Intentionally
Daily Application
Invest in friendships and community 1 Thessalonians 2:8; Colossians 4:5–6
Serve and support others
Listen before speaking
Why This Matters
Trust opens doors for the gospel.
Encouragement
Love makes the message believable.
5. Integrate Action and Word
Daily Application
Serve the needy, forgive generously, show mercy James 2:18; Matthew 25:35–36
Let deeds validate your message
Why This Matters
Actions authenticate the gospel.
Encouragement
Your service can soften even the hardest hearts.
6. Persevere Despite Challenges
Daily Application
Expect rejection without discouragement Galatians 6:9; 2 Timothy 4:5
Share with patience and humility
Celebrate small steps of growth
Why This Matters
Evangelism is often slow, faithful work.
Encouragement
God is working even when you cannot see it.
7. Integrate Evangelism Into Everyday Life
Daily Application
Let every word and deed honour Christ Colossians 3:17; Romans 10:14–15
Use daily interactions to reflect God’s love
Pray with and for neighbours and coworkers
Why This Matters
Evangelism is a lifestyle, not an event.
Encouragement
Small, consistent witness shapes eternal stories.
Daily Life Summary
Living out evangelism involves:
Gospel‑centred living
Bold, loving speech
Dependence on the Spirit
Intentional relationships
Service and good deeds
Perseverance in challenges
Everyday consistency
Evangelism is the joyful overflow of knowing Jesus — a life that invites others into His kingdom.
Key Scripture References
Matthew 28:19–20
Acts 1:8
Romans 10:14–15
2 Corinthians 5:20
Colossians 4:5–6
James 2:18