Why We Need to Share Our Faith: The Urgency of Evangelism

As Christians, we all know we should share our faith, but sometimes we struggle with motivation. Whether it's nervousness about starting conversations, fear of rejection, or simply not knowing what to say, many of us find ourselves hesitant to be witnesses for Christ. However, there are powerful biblical motivators that should compel us to action.

What Does the Bible Say About Our Role as Ministers?

Scripture makes it clear that all Christ followers are called to be ministers. Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us that pastors, teachers, evangelists, prophets, and apostles exist "to equip God's people to do his work and to build up the church, the body of Christ." This isn't just about bringing people to church so the pastor can preach to them - we all have a ministry role to fulfill.

The Holy Spirit empowers us for this work. As Jesus told his disciples in Acts 1:8, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere." This power and calling didn't end with the apostles - it continues today.

The Rapture: A Powerful Motivator for Evangelism

What Does "Rapture" Actually Mean?

The Greek word "harpazo" appears 13 times in the New Testament and means to suddenly snatch away, take by force, or carry off quickly. It describes a sudden, quick, and powerful transition - the strongest Greek word for removal in Scripture.

First Thessalonians 4:17 describes this event: "Then together with them, we who are still alive and remain on Earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And then we will be with the Lord forever." Notice that Jesus doesn't set foot on Earth during the rapture - we meet Him in the air.

Why Should This Motivate Us?

The reality of the rapture should create urgency in our evangelism. Scripture tells us that "two will be lying in bed, one will be taken, the other will be left. Two will be walking in a field, one will be taken, the other will be left." In the blink of an eye, people will disappear.

This means that right now, in our circles of influence, we're surrounded by people who wouldn't go if the rapture happened today. They haven't called upon the name of the Lord yet, or they've rejected Him altogether. We have a calling as Christ followers to give them the opportunity to receive or reject Christ.

The Second Coming: Jesus Will Return

Acts 1:9-11 describes Jesus' ascension and the promise of His return. After Jesus was taken up into the clouds, two angels appeared and said, "Men of Galilee, why are you standing here looking into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven. But someday he will return from heaven the same way you saw him go."

Remarkably, Jesus left from the Mount of Olives, and Zechariah 14:3-5 prophesies that He will return to the same location. When His feet touch the Mount of Olives, it will split apart, creating a wide valley. Archaeological studies from 1969 discovered a fault line running right through the Mount of Olives - exactly where Scripture says it will split.

Commands About Christ's Return

Scripture gives us clear instructions regarding Christ's return:

Eternal Rewards: What Are We Building for Heaven?

While salvation is by grace alone, Scripture teaches that Christians will face judgment for their deeds. Our works will be tested by fire - wood, hay, and stubble will burn up, but what withstands the fire will result in rewards we can present to Jesus.

The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, "After all, what gives us hope and joy? And what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you! Yes, you are our pride and joy."

How many people will be in heaven because of you? How many "trees" are you planting in heaven? Charles Spurgeon illustrated this with King Cyrus, who found more pleasure in his garden than visitors because he had planted every tree himself. The joy of seeing people in heaven whom we've influenced for Christ will be immeasurable.

How Did Jesus Model Evangelism?

The Power of Personal Encounters

While Scripture records only 4-5 sermons Jesus preached to large crowds, it documents 30-40 personal encounters He had with individuals. This ratio is significant - personal encounters far surpass the fruit we can produce through large group ministry alone.

Jesus' ministry was more conversational and situational than anything else. He used everyday situations and conversations to make the greatest impact on people's lives.

Examples of Life-Changing Personal Encounters

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Don't underestimate your influence or ability to help others. The shame of your past doesn't create a roadblock to future ministry. You have what others need.

Two Models of Witness

Verbal Witness

This includes preaching, sharing your faith, and witnessing to others through words. It's the oral presentation and proclamation of the gospel.

Embodied Witness

This is when we are living examples to those around us. Our lifestyle should demonstrate our love for Jesus so clearly that people start asking questions. Colossians 4:5-6 instructs us to "live wisely among those who are not believers. Make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everybody."

Our public example matters tremendously. People should see something different about us that draws them to ask about our faith.

The Urgency of the Gospel Message

Romans 10:13-17 reminds us that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?"

This creates an urgent responsibility. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:16, "Yet preaching the good news is not something I can boast about. I am compelled by God to do it."

If God could use Paul - who persecuted and killed Christians - He can certainly use you. Your past doesn't disqualify you from future ministry.

Life Application

This week, identify the circles of influence you'll be in where people don't know Christ. Be a public example that glorifies God through your actions, words, and attitudes. Look for opportunities to bridge the gap and have meaningful conversations.

Challenge yourself to invite someone out for lunch this week - perhaps that family member your heart beats for because they're nearing death and don't know Jesus. It's time to invite them to church or simply spend time with them. Don't live with regret.

Consider these questions:

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Remember, crowds attract attention and sermons teach truth, but personal encounters change lives. You have the power to impact eternity through your relationships and witness. Don't let fear, shame, or insecurity keep you from the ministry God has called you to.

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