EVERYDAY OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARING THE GOSPEL
Some may think that evangelism belongs only to preachers, missionaries, or elders and deacons, but the New Testament teaches that every follower of Christ has a role in helping others come to know about the gospel and the power of salvation through Christ’s blood. It is both a great privilege and responsibility that God has given to all Christians, to share the gospel with others.
Before ascending into heaven, Jesus instructed His followers to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, NKJV). This command was not limited to a select few, and in fact, the spread of Christianity throughout the first century was made possible because all Christians carried the message of Christ wherever they went.
It is not always easy to do so, and I speak from the personal experience of encountering either internal hesitation, or external objections / doubt. Sometimes we may hesitate because we feel unqualified or fear that we do not know enough. Yet God does not expect every Christian to accomplish the same task in exactly the same way, as the Bible teaches that different people contribute differently to the growth of God’s kingdom.
The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NKJV) that, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase”. He continued in verse 7: “So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase”. This illustration reminds us that conversion is often a multi-step process. One person may plant a seed in the prospect’s heart / mind or introduce biblical truth. Another person may answer questions months later. Someone else may eventually continue studying the Scriptures with that individual and witness his or her obedience to the gospel. Of course, it could also be the same person seeing through this journey to conversion. But in this Bible passage, it is clear that God can use different people along the journey, and ultimately it is the God-given Scriptures which convince the prospect to make the personal choice to obey God.
This truth should encourage us. We may never know the full impact of a simple conversation about Christ and His message of salvation, or a friendly invitation to worship or a gospel meeting, sharing a Bible verse, or offering to study Scripture with someone. Such actions may be the seed that begins or the water which advances a person's spiritual journey.
Jesus described the kingdom in similar terms when He spoke of the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3-9). The seed represents the word of God (Luke 8:11). Our responsibility is to sow faithfully. We cannot control how people think or respond, but we can ensure that the seed is planted. God can work through His word, sometimes more immediately, sometimes long after we have spoken it.
I would like to propose that everyday life presents numerous opportunities for personal work. It is just a matter of putting on that lens as we go through our daily activities. For instance, can a conversation with a colleague about what you did over the weekend turn into a sharing about a recent sermon or an area of service? Can a discussion with a classmate about stressful studies turn into opportunities to talk about how you find peace through your faith? Even a cab journey to the Church building can be an opportunity to talk to the driver about your destination.
In the course of any normal day, the majority of us would interact with people yet to be in the body of Christ. They could be family members, friends, colleagues, classmates, neighbours, and even brief encounters with passers-by. These are all souls whom God loves and desires to save. As Paul instructed, “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time” (Colossians 4:5). We are to make the most of opportunities that arise naturally in our daily interactions.
Our conduct itself can also open doors for the gospel. Jesus taught, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). When Christians display kindness, honesty, integrity, humility, patience, and love, people often become curious about the faith that motivates such behaviours.
Likewise, Peter encouraged believers to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Notice that opportunities often arise because others observe something different in the life of a faithful Christian. Our words and our example work together in pointing people toward Christ.
Furthermore, prayer must accompany our efforts. Paul asked Christians to pray that God would “open to us a door for the word” (Colossians 4:3). We should pray for courage, wisdom, opportunities, and receptive hearts.
It is easy to become discouraged when we do not see immediate results. Yet Scripture reminds us not to grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9). Many conversions in the New Testament occurred after periods of teaching, discussion, and reflection. The seed often needs time to grow.
Let us view each day as an opportunity to influence someone for Christ. Whether we are planting a seed, watering one already planted, or helping gather a harvest, every effort matters. God sees every conversation, every invitation, every act of kindness, and every word spoken in faith.
May we therefore continue steadfastly in sharing the good news, trusting that God will give the increase according to His will. As Paul concluded in 1 Corinthians 3:8 that, “Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labour.”
Ask Yourself:
Whose duty is it to preach the gospel to those yet to be saved?
How can we all look out for everyday opportunities to share the gospel with others?
Suggested Answers:
It is the responsibility of every single Christian who declares Christ Jesus to be his / her saviour, to share the gospel with every person possible. For Jesus instructed His followers to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, NKJV).
You may discuss this with the writer or your Bible class teacher.
