Articles
EVANGELISM
While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for Me, Barnabas and Saul for the work for which I have called them" (Acts 13:2). Luke records for us the occasion of the first missionary journey into Asia.
We know of several men who have followed the example of Barnabas and Paul and left the comfort and security of familiar places to teach in new areas. In Romans 10:12-15 Paul speaks of the need for preaching and those who would fulfill that need in going. Jesus spoke to His disciples and told them to go; to go to all the world making disciples (Matthew 28:19). The whole world is in need of the gospel and the dispersion of God's word throughout the world can come from many different sources. Finding men willing to go and then supporting them in their work is one way that had its beginnings with the birth of Christianity.
But there are so many in our own country or community, who haven't heard the true gospel. Shouldn't we begin with them? That question will continually come up as consideration is given to men who would go beyond the borders of this nation to teach God's word. And that is certainly a fair question. Consider this answer for the time being. How many of us would leave the comforts of our homes and family and the security and stability of our present lives to go overseas and teach others? Let us support those who would go; and as far as those in our own community who are not Christians, is that not our responsibility to teach them?
Who knows our families, friends, and acquaintances better than we do? They are going to be much more influenced by us then by some well-known eloquent speaking gospel preacher whom they have never heard of. Are we ashamed of the gospel or are we ashamed of the example of our lives? Do we feel inadequate to teach? Then invite them to services and an opportunity to hear the gospel proclaimed or to a Bible study which several here would be glad to lead.
We should always be concerned with the spread of the gospel around the world and be involved with that as we have the opportunity. But the greater concern is in our own backyard, literally!! If we are not personally going overseas to teach then what is keeping us from going next door. We have a great opportunity this week to invite at least one person to hear the gospel proclaimed. Remember the song "You Never Mentioned Him To Me"? The song doesn't say you never converted me, but rather you never even mentioned Him to me. How sad a commentary. Will there be those who would say that to us? If so then let's make sure that was in the past and not after today. Evangelism is not just an evangelist's job; it belongs to all of us!
