Basics of the evangelist
Matthew 16:13~20 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (16)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #408 I Cannot Tell Thee Whence it Came (#466 in previous version)
“Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God” is the basic confession of an evangelist. Like the confession that Jesus is the Christ, evangelism is not something that we strive to do but something that is rightful. The fruits of evangelism are the works of God that naturally ripen within prayer. What is the meaning of evangelism that naturally takes place?
1. Areas that must take place (Matthew 16:16~20)
How will evangelism take place? Many people misconceive Christ as Jeremiah the representation of good deeds, Elijah the epitome of power, or John the Baptist who preached the Word. Jesus came as the Christ to solve life’s fundamental problem, and he is the son of God. This is the true confession of Christ. When you confess the name of Jesus Christ, the gates of Hades will not overcome you and you will enjoy the blessings of the throne and the keys to the kingdom of heaven. This is the blessing that a believer will rightfully enjoy.
2. Aspects requiring effort (2Timothy 2:1~7)
We must live as the soldiers, athletes and farmers of Christ. Soldiers, athletes and farmers are never idle. They are constantly preparing and diligently working. Likewise, we must prepare for evangelism. Forgetting this commission, the churches of Korea are lagging behind. We are currently living within a reality of incompetent Christians who are unable to realize God’s grace or change the world and are criticized instead.
3. Things to challenge (Matthew 28:16~20, Mark 16:15~20, Acts 1:8)
The Bible commands us to go to all peoples and tribes. In an age with no automobiles, going to all peoples may have seemed impossible. However, God tells us to equip ourselves spiritually for this work. (Ephesians 6:10~20) God promised to be with us by the blessing of the throne so there is no need to worry. We must take challenge towards the world with the covenant Jesus gave to His disciples and the power of the filling of the Holy Spirit.
- What am I preparing and challenging for the life of the evangelist? Evangelism takes place through your life within prayer. Pray to testify of God’s blessings to the entire world.
Study of Evangelism Message / 2011.4.16