Overcoming The Fear Of Evangelism Series

OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF EVANGELISM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Timothy 1:7

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:19-20, Romans 1:16, Acts 4:29-31, Jeremiah 1:6-8, Mark 16:15

INTRODUCTION:

Evangelism is a core responsibility of every believer, but many struggle with fear when it comes to sharing their faith. Fear of rejection, fear of not knowing what to say, or fear of persecution often hinders believers from fulfilling the Great Commission. However, God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

Overcoming the fear of evangelism requires understanding that we are not alone—God’s Spirit empowers us, His love compels us, and His Word gives us boldness. Just as the early disciples overcame their fears and preached the gospel despite opposition, we too can be fearless in sharing Christ with the world.

In this study, we will explore the sources of fear in evangelism and how to overcome them through biblical principles.

1. IDENTIFYING THE ROOT CAUSES OF FEAR IN EVANGELISM

Understanding the sources of fear helps in overcoming them.

a) Fear of rejection (John 15:18-20)

Many hesitate to evangelise because they fear being rejected by others.

b) Fear of not knowing what to say (Luke 12:11-12)

Some avoid witnessing because they feel inadequate in explaining the gospel.

c) Fear of offending others (Galatians 1:10)

The truth of the gospel may not always be well received, but we must stand firm.

d) Fear of persecution (2 Timothy 3:12)

Evangelism may bring opposition, but God strengthens His people.

e) Biblical Example: Moses’ reluctance to speak (Exodus 4:10-12)

Moses feared public speaking, but God assured him of divine help.

2. THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OVERCOMING FEAR

The Holy Spirit gives boldness to witness.

a) The Holy Spirit empowers us to speak with courage (Acts 1:8)

We cannot evangelise effectively without the Spirit’s help.

b) The Spirit gives wisdom and words to speak (Luke 21:15)

God equips us with the right words at the right time.

c) Boldness comes through prayer (Acts 4:29-31)

The early church prayed for courage and received supernatural boldness.

d) The Spirit fills us with love that overcomes fear (1 John 4:18)

Perfect love casts out fear and motivates us to share the gospel.

e) Biblical Example: Peter’s transformation at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41)

Peter, who once denied Jesus out of fear, preached boldly after receiving the Holy Spirit.

3. BUILDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD

The Word of God strengthens our faith to evangelise.

a) God’s Word assures us of His presence (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus promised to be with us always as we evangelise.

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

The more we feed on God’s Word, the stronger our confidence grows.

c) The gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16)

We must not be ashamed of the life-changing message of Christ.

d) Trusting in God's promises removes fear (Jeremiah 1:6-8)

God assured Jeremiah that He would be with him and give him the words to speak.

e) Biblical Example: Paul’s fearless preaching (Acts 18:9-10)

Despite opposition, Paul boldly continued because God encouraged him.

4. PRACTICAL STEPS TO OVERCOME FEAR IN EVANGELISM

Applying these steps will help conquer fear and build boldness.

a) Pray for boldness and divine opportunities (Colossians 4:3-4)

Consistent prayer strengthens confidence in witnessing.

b) Start with personal testimonies (Mark 5:19)

Sharing personal encounters with Christ is an easy way to evangelise.

c) Focus on God, not on people's reactions (Acts 5:29)

Obedience to God should be our priority, not people's opinions.

d) Go out in pairs or groups (Luke 10:1)

Evangelising with others boosts courage and effectiveness.

e) Biblical Example: The woman at the well (John 4:28-30)

She boldly shared her encounter with Jesus despite her past.

5. OVERCOMING FEAR THROUGH LOVE AND COMPASSION

Love for souls must be greater than fear of rejection.

a) Christ’s love compels us to evangelise (2 Corinthians 5:14-15)

True love for souls makes evangelism a priority.

b) The reality of eternal judgment should stir urgency (Jude 1:22-23)

Knowing that people’s eternity is at stake should move us to action.

c) Evangelism is an act of obedience to Christ (Mark 16:15)

It is not an option but a command from Jesus.

d) The joy of winning souls outweighs the fear (Luke 15:7)

There is great rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents.

e) Biblical Example: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)

Philip, led by the Spirit, shared the gospel with boldness and led the man to Christ.

CONCLUSION:

Fear is one of the greatest barriers to evangelism, but as believers, we have the power to overcome it through the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and love for souls. The early disciples faced opposition and danger, yet they boldly proclaimed the gospel. Likewise, we must step out in faith, trusting God to help us share His message without fear.