No one can have a relationship with Jesus and not be compelled to share that good news with others. Unfortunately, many believers are reluctant to share their faith for fear of being rejected or otherwise challenged by unbelievers. When Jesus sent out his apostles to spread the gospel, he gave them some instructions that all believers should consider. These lessons help us better understand our responsibility to spread God’s love. When we look closely at the teachings of Jesus, it becomes clear that we have a mission to let others know about the salvation he provides.
Jesus teaches that we need to start our evangelism with the understanding that this world is controlled by the devil and he is doing everything in his power to challenge those who follow Jesus Christ.
“And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NASB)
There is good reason for us to fear sharing the gospel in a world that is largely dominated by the devil’s distractions. Jesus teaches that we are to be aware of the enemy and careful to avoid his traps.
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16 (NASB)
As believers, we need to keep in mind we are guided and protected by the Holy Spirit. When we proclaim our affection for Jesus and acknowledge him as our Lord and Savior, we are lifted up as children of God.
“Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32 (NASB)
Of course, the foundation of our love for Jesus is our love for God. Jesus teaches that the magnitude of our love for him should exceed our love for our closest family members. This is a graphic example of how complete our love for God should be.
“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.” Matthew 10:37 (NASB)
That kind of love is hard to contain. We should have an overwhelming desire to share the love we have for Jesus with all of our family members and close friends. Those who are interested in hearing the message are at that moment connecting with God through us.
“He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.” Matthew 10:40 (NASB)
It is the duty of every Christian to be ready to share the gospel whenever the opportunity presents itself. We don’t need to be expert Bible scholars to let people know how we feel about God.
“Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.” 1 Peter 3:15 (NASB)
There’s nothing more important than our relationship with Jesus. All eternity hinges on the decision to trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior. This is not something we keep quiet. This is something that needs to be shared as part of our loving service to God. Praise Jesus for walking with us every step of the way.
WhatDoesItMeanToServeGod.com
