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Evangelism…

It’s a word that makes many Christians wince and recoil – a word that conjures images of soap box street corner sermons, cleverly disguised gospel tracts, or uncomfortable, oftentimes canned, conversations about some version of Jesus that isn’t all too offensive or demanding. It’s a word that most every believer agrees with, but few practice, a word that sits on the top shelf of our churches, small groups, and Bible studies, gathering dust between its mention in the occasional sermon or lesson, a word reserved for the most holy, capable, and called Christ-followers like the pastor, elders, or missionaries.

Now, it is not my intention to assume every Christian feels this way. I am far from a cynic. Clearly, there are believers who perk up at the mention of evangelism, remembering a time God used them to change the course of someone’s life forever. There are local churches, small groups, Bible studies, families, and individuals who have an amazing and thorough understanding and love for biblical evangelism. They practice what they preach, making the good news of Jesus the centerpiece of their lives. They are bold in their gospel-sharing, consistent in their gospel-lifestyle, and constant in their pursuit of those who don’t know Christ. However, the sad reality is that, for many believers, the idea of evangelism is paralyzing, terrifying, or offensive. It is something we try, then abandon if it doesn’t go exactly according to plan, never to attempt again.

Notice the intentional use of the word, “we” in that last statement. I was born into a solid Christian family, raised by parents who settled down to lead a church for 20+ years after being international missionaries. I was a “church kid,” sitting in the front row, attending church multiple times a week, having family devotions, and making it to nearly every Bible camp and youth group meeting. Leader in the youth group, ministry intern, Bible college grad, and local church youth pastor for years… and I said “we.”

The terror of evangelism does not discriminate. It doesn’t care who you are or where you’ve come from.

I remember the very first time I attempted what one might consider “evangelism” with my best friend. It was a cold, windy North Dakota winter day, but the reason I was shaking had nothing to do with the temperature. I was about to finally do it. I was going to talk to my friend about Jesus… And I was terrified. Best friends, brothers for six years, college roommates, and the closest of confidants, we sat in his apartment in silence as we had done so many times before. But this time was different.

The previous Sunday’s message had challenged me to evangelize, to share the good news of Jesus with those closest to me. And so, armed with the best of intentions and a basic understanding of the gospel message, I spoke. “Spoke” might be an overstatement of the squeak that came out. “Can I talk to you about something from the Bible?” Silence. Proud of myself for not nervously blacking out, I waited for the response. Finally, it came. “No thanks, I’m not really interested.” A wave of disappointment washed over me as I quickly changed the subject to video games, content to get out of there with our relationship intact. I would love to say that I went back to my pastor, talked through the situation, and revisited the conversation with my friend, but I did not. It ended there.

Despite my Christian trophy case and personal accolades, I shut my mouth, deciding to leave the “God-talk” to other church-going folk.

The details may differ a bit, but how many believers have found themselves in similar situations? The knowledge of the gospel is there. The desire to share it is there. The relationship with someone who needs to hear it is there. And yet, we freeze, panic, and stand paralyzed as the opportunity to put it all together seemingly comes and goes. There is a problem with our understanding of evangelism, or “sharing the gospel.”

First things first. If this is something you struggle with on a regular basis, welcome to the club. It’s not a small club, so we had to stop giving out t-shirts. Secondly, although you may be in the club, you have decided that you don’t want to stay there. You’ve decided that accomplishing the Great Commission and Great Commandment are worth the discomfort that comes from intentional evangelism. You’ve decided that paralyzing fear can’t be the end, that there is a way to overcome awkwardness, and that the gospel is important enough to keep trying, learning, and growing.

That’s what this series of articles is designed to be. It is a challenge to grow. It is a dare to confront the things that keep our mouths shut and the gospel locked away in our churches. It is an attack on the status quo, a step toward boldness, and a giant arrow pointing to Christ and His way of doing things. My hope is that this series changes your perspective on evangelism—that it helps you to realize the part you are invited to play in Christ’s redemptive work in this world, and that it begins to equip you with the tools necessary to move with confidence toward those who don’t know Him.