The Heart of Christianity: Mission and Evangelism
At its core, Christianity is a faith that refuses to be contained. The gospel of Jesus Christ is meant to be shared with the world, and mission and evangelism are the outward expressions of this impulse.
Mission in the Bible
The concept of mission is woven throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, God sent deliverers, judges, kings, prophets, and priests to the people of Israel. However, God’s plan was always bigger than just one nation. When God called Abraham, He promised that through his descendants, “all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:3).
In the New Testament, the focus on mission expands to include all nations. Jesus sent His disciples into the world, just as He had been sent by God (John 17:18; 20:21). The Great Commission, which appears in various forms in the Gospels and Acts, emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel of salvation through Christ to the nations.
What is Mission?
Mission is not limited to evangelism, although evangelism is a crucial part of it. Different Christians have varying understandings of what constitutes biblical mission. Some confine the term to evangelism and related activities, while others include social responsibility and other aspects of Christian service.
The Importance of Evangelism
Evangelism is the verbal proclamation of the good news of Jesus Christ. It involves sharing the message of salvation with others, with the goal of persuading them to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. Evangelism is not just about sharing a message; it’s about changing lives.
The Rationale for Evangelism
Paul explains why evangelism is necessary in his letter to the Romans. He writes that he is “under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians” to preach the gospel (Romans 1:14). He is driven by a conviction of the power of the gospel to save all who believe.
Ingredients and Methods of Evangelism
From the Great Commission, we can identify key ingredients of evangelism. These include the authority of Jesus, the aim of making obedient disciples, and the scope of all nations. The methods of evangelism vary according to audience, but the content of the gospel remains the same.
The Call to Mission and Evangelism
The call to mission and evangelism is not limited to a select few. All Christians are called to share the gospel with others, using the opportunities that come their way. The church must press on in its vital mission of bringing the mercy of God to the world, with the greatest news the world has ever known – the gospel of Christ.
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