Evangelism As A Lifestyle Series

EVANGELISM AS A LIFESTYLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

"For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more... I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 5:16, Colossians 4:5-6, 2 Timothy 4:2, Acts 1:8, 1 Peter 3:15

INTRODUCTION:

Evangelism is not just an event or a scheduled outreach; it is a lifestyle. Many believers think of evangelism as something they do occasionally, but God’s desire is that it becomes part of our daily lives. In 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, Paul explains how he adapted himself to different groups of people so that he might win them to Christ. His approach teaches us that evangelism is not only about preaching but also about how we live, interact, and influence others for the gospel.

Jesus Christ is the perfect example of a lifestyle of evangelism. Everywhere He went, He ministered to people—whether at a wedding, by the well, in homes, or on the streets. He showed us that evangelism is not limited to the pulpit; it is something we do in our workplaces, schools, communities, and daily interactions.

This study will explore how we can make evangelism a natural part of our lives through our words, actions, and relationships.

1. LIVING A LIFE THAT REFLECTS CHRIST

Evangelism starts with how we live.

a) Our lives should be a testimony to unbelievers (Matthew 5:16)

Jesus said to let our light shine so that others may glorify God.

b) A holy and righteous life attracts people to Christ (Titus 2:7-8)

Our conduct should reflect godliness and integrity.

c) Unbelievers watch how we live (2 Corinthians 3:2-3)

We are living epistles, read by all men.

d) A life of love and compassion draws people to Jesus (John 13:35)

By our love, the world knows we are His disciples.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Excellent Spirit (Daniel 6:3-5)

His lifestyle made him a witness even in a pagan land.

2. SHARING THE GOSPEL IN DAILY CONVERSATIONS

Evangelism should be part of our normal discussions.

a) We must always be ready to share our faith (1 Peter 3:15)

Be prepared to give an answer for the hope within you.

b) Our speech should be seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:5-6)

Wisdom in conversations makes the gospel more effective.

c) We should speak about Christ naturally, not forcefully (John 4:29)

The Samaritan woman simply shared her testimony.

d) The gospel should be shared in love, not condemnation (Ephesians 4:15)

Truth spoken in love wins hearts.

e) Biblical Example: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:29-35)

He explained the gospel in a conversation, leading to salvation.

3. EVANGELISING THROUGH GOOD WORKS

Our actions can speak louder than words.

a) Acts of kindness open doors for evangelism (Galatians 6:10)

Doing good to others softens their hearts towards the gospel.

b) Serving others demonstrates Christ’s love (Matthew 20:28)

Jesus came not to be served but to serve.

c) Helping those in need makes people receptive (James 2:15-17)

Practical love is a powerful evangelistic tool.

d) Integrity and honesty are part of evangelism (Proverbs 11:3)

People will believe our message when our lives align with it.

e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)

His actions spoke louder than words, showing God’s love in action.

4. EVANGELISM THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS

Building genuine relationships helps spread the gospel.

a) Winning souls requires patience and connection (1 Corinthians 9:22)

Paul became all things to all men to win some.

b) Building trust makes evangelism more effective (John 3:1-2)

Nicodemus came to Jesus at night because of trust.

c) Hospitality can lead to gospel opportunities (Romans 12:13)

Welcoming people into our lives can open doors for evangelism.

d) Evangelism should be relational, not just instructional (1 Thessalonians 2:8)

Paul shared not just the gospel but his life with people.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus at Zacchaeus’ House (Luke 19:1-10)

A meal led to his transformation and salvation.

5. BEING LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT IN EVANGELISM

We need divine guidance to be effective witnesses.

a) The Holy Spirit empowers us for evangelism (Acts 1:8)

Without Him, our efforts will be fruitless.

b) He directs us to people who are ready to hear (Acts 16:6-10)

Paul was led to Macedonia to preach.

c) The Spirit gives us the right words to say (Luke 12:12)

He teaches us how to present the gospel.

d) Miracles and signs confirm the gospel (Mark 16:20)

God uses supernatural manifestations to draw people.

e) Biblical Example: Cornelius’ Divine Appointment (Acts 10:1-48)

The Spirit arranged for Peter to bring him the gospel.

CONCLUSION:

Evangelism should not be an occasional activity but a way of life. Our actions, conversations, and relationships must consistently reflect Christ. We must always be ready to share the gospel, whether through words, acts of kindness, or simply living a life that honours God.