Gospel Zeal

“And He told them many things in parables, saying: ‘A sower went out to sow.’” - Matthew 13:3

Evangelism: The preaching or promulgation of the gospel; missionary zeal, purpose or activity. Do you cringe when you hear the word evangelism? Does it evoke feelings of fear, nervousness or guilt? Can you remember the last time you shared the Gospel with another person? Would you feel comfortable doing so if given the opportunity?

The truth is that for the vast majority of Christians evangelism - called also by Jesus as “fishing for men, sowing seeds,” and “making disciples” – is the most difficult part of the Christian life. We know that we need to do it…that we ought to do it…that others need us to do it. Many even want to do it. And yet many never do it, and those that do often feel inadequate, stressed out, or embarrassed. If we do try and share the Gospel and the person doesn’t respond, then we may even feel like a failure. How frustrating!

If you can identify with any of these feelings, I have good news for you. Evangelism does not have to be scary, complicated, or a source of guilt. The role that we play, and the role that God plays, must be put in proper perspective, though. God is the Savior, not us. Our role is simply to tell and live out the Good News of Jesus. If we try to take on the work that only God can do, we will only end up discouraged, frustrated, and feeling rejected.

It is possible to sow the seed of the Gospel and have no harvest. But there is something even more certain than that. If we don’t sow the seeds, there will never be a harvest. Producing the harvest is God’s responsibility, not ours. He has chosen to involve us in the process by entrusting us with the precious seeds of the Gospel. What a privilege to share in the work of God.

Father, Thank You for the privilege of sharing in Your work of salvation. Please help me to boldly share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others as You lead and empower me to do so. 

 In Jesus’ Name, Amen.