When we think about spiritual disciplines, we often think of things like prayer, reading the Bible, or worship. But one important discipline that is sometimes overlooked is evangelism—the act of sharing the good news of Jesus with others.
Evangelism isn’t just for pastors, missionaries, or those with outgoing personalities. It’s something that every follower of Christ is called to do. Jesus made that clear when He said in Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV), “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This command, often called the Great Commission, is for all believers—not just a select few.
Author Donald Whitney reminds us that evangelism is not just expected—it’s something we can grow in. Just like prayer or reading Scripture, sharing our faith is a discipline we practice. Whitney writes, “Many Christians are passive in evangelism because they don’t see it as a discipline to be developed.” In other words, we don’t wait to feel ready or confident—we take small, faithful steps and trust God to use them.
Dallas Willard helps us see that evangelism is more than trying to get someone to “pray a prayer.” He explains that we’re not just inviting people to believe in Jesus, but to follow Him. Evangelism is about helping people enter into the Kingdom of God—a life of purpose, peace, and transformation with Jesus at the center. It’s not only about what people are saved from, but also what they’re saved into.
So how do we begin? It starts by living lives that reflect the hope we have in Christ. Scripture says in 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV), “Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” Evangelism doesn’t always mean standing on a street corner or preaching a sermon—it often looks like having a real conversation, listening well, and gently pointing someone toward Jesus.
Ultimately, sharing our faith is not about having all the right answers or convincing arguments. It’s about being faithful to speak the truth of the gospel and trusting that God will do the work in people’s hearts. Paul reminds us in Romans 1:16 (ESV), “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”
Evangelism can feel intimidating, but when we see it as a way to love others and honor Christ, it becomes less about pressure and more about partnership with God. As a church, let’s encourage one another to grow in this discipline—praying for boldness, seizing everyday opportunities, and trusting that God is already at work.
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