Why Evangelism Is Important Series

WHY EVANGELISM IS IMPORTANT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Romans 10:14-15

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"

Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20, Proverbs 11:30, Acts 1:8

INTRODUCTION:

Evangelism is the heartbeat of God. It is the process of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ so that souls may be saved. The scripture in Romans 10:14-15 highlights the necessity of preaching the gospel because faith comes by hearing, and people cannot believe unless they hear the truth.

In a world filled with darkness, confusion, and sin, evangelism is the light that brings people to salvation. Jesus commanded us to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15), making it clear that evangelism is not an option but a mandate. Every believer has a role to play in fulfilling this divine assignment.

In this study, we will examine why evangelism is crucial, its impact on the world, the consequences of neglecting it, and how we can effectively carry out this assignment. May the Lord stir up a fresh fire in us to reach the lost with the gospel!

1. EVANGELISM IS A COMMAND FROM GOD

It is not a suggestion but an instruction from our Lord Jesus Christ.

a) Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20)

The Great Commission is a direct instruction to all believers.

b) The gospel must be preached to all nations before the end comes (Matthew 24:14)

Evangelism is part of God’s divine plan for the world.

c) Every believer is an ambassador of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)

We are God’s representatives, called to bring people to Him.

d) Evangelism is an act of obedience to God (John 14:15)

If we love Jesus, we will obey His command to spread the gospel.

e) Biblical Example: The Disciples’ Obedience (Acts 5:42)

The early church preached daily, despite persecution.

2. EVANGELISM SAVES SOULS FROM ETERNAL DAMNATION

Without hearing the gospel, people remain lost.

a) Many are on the path to destruction without Christ (Romans 6:23)

The wages of sin is death, but salvation offers eternal life.

b) Faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17)

People can only believe when they hear the gospel.

c) God does not want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9)

He desires that all should come to repentance.

d) Hell is real, and it is for those who reject the gospel (Luke 16:23-24)

Evangelism rescues souls from eternal separation from God.

e) Biblical Example: The Salvation of the Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:30-33)

Paul and Silas led a lost soul to Christ in prison.

3. EVANGELISM BRINGS TRANSFORMATION TO INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES

The gospel has the power to change lives.

a) The gospel transforms sinners into saints (2 Corinthians 5:17)

When people receive Christ, they become new creations.

b) Evangelism brings light into dark places (John 8:12)

Jesus is the light of the world, and His message dispels darkness.

c) Nations are blessed when people turn to God (Psalm 33:12)

Righteousness exalts a nation.

d) Evangelism leads to deliverance from bondage (Luke 4:18-19)

The gospel sets captives free from sin and oppression.

e) Biblical Example: The Revival in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8)

Philip’s evangelism brought joy and transformation to an entire city.

4. THE CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING EVANGELISM

Failing to preach the gospel has serious consequences.

a) People will perish in ignorance (Hosea 4:6)

Souls are lost when they lack knowledge of Christ.

b) We will be held accountable for the lost (Ezekiel 3:18-19)

If we do not warn sinners, their blood will be on our hands.

c) The enemy continues to dominate unreached territories (2 Corinthians 4:4)

Satan blinds the minds of unbelievers to keep them from salvation.

d) The church becomes spiritually stagnant (Revelation 3:1-2)

A church that does not evangelise will eventually die.

e) Biblical Example: Jonah’s Disobedience (Jonah 1:1-3, Jonah 3:1-10)

Jonah initially refused to preach, but God’s mercy prevailed.

5. HOW TO EFFECTIVELY ENGAGE IN EVANGELISM

There are different methods believers can use to share the gospel.

a) Personal evangelism – sharing Christ one-on-one (John 4:28-30)

The Samaritan woman testified, and many believed.

b) Preaching in public places and gatherings (Acts 17:22-23)

Paul preached in the marketplace and synagogues.

c) Using social media and modern technology (Psalm 68:11)

The Lord gave the Word; great was the company of those who published it.

d) Supporting mission work and evangelists (Philippians 4:15-17)

Financial and prayer support helps spread the gospel.