EVANGELISM THROUGH ACTS OF KINDNESS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 5:16
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 19:17, Galatians 6:9-10, Luke 6:35, James 2:15-17, Acts 9:36-42
INTRODUCTION:
Evangelism is not limited to preaching alone; it also involves demonstrating God’s love through acts of kindness. Many people may not listen to a sermon, but they can see and experience the love of Christ through our good deeds. Jesus emphasised the importance of shining our light through good works so that people may glorify God (Matthew 5:16).
In a world filled with selfishness, greed, and indifference, acts of kindness stand out as powerful testimonies of God’s love. When we show kindness to others—whether through giving, helping the needy, or showing compassion—we reflect the character of Christ and open doors for evangelism.
This study explores how acts of kindness can serve as a tool for winning souls to Christ, following the example of Jesus and the early church.
1. THE BIBLICAL FOUNDATION FOR KINDNESS IN EVANGELISM
Kindness is a divine principle that reflects God’s love to the world.
a) Good works bring glory to God (Matthew 5:16)
Our acts of kindness draw people to Christ.
b) Kindness is a command, not an option (Galatians 6:9-10)
We are called to do good to all people, especially fellow believers.
c) Lending to the poor is lending to God (Proverbs 19:17)
God rewards those who show kindness to others.
d) Love in action is true faith (James 2:15-17)
Our faith must be demonstrated through acts of kindness.
e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)
Jesus used this parable to teach that love is shown through action, not just words.
2. EXAMPLES OF EVANGELISM THROUGH KINDNESS
Practical acts of kindness serve as a testimony of God's love.
a) Feeding the hungry (Matthew 25:35-40)
Jesus identified kindness to the needy as kindness to Him.
b) Visiting the sick and imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3)
Showing love to those in distress is an expression of God's compassion.
c) Providing shelter and assistance to the homeless (Isaiah 58:7)
Meeting physical needs opens the heart to receive the gospel.
d) Helping the widows and orphans (James 1:27)
Caring for the vulnerable is pure and acceptable worship before God.
e) Biblical Example: Dorcas (Tabitha) in Joppa (Acts 9:36-42)
Dorcas’ acts of kindness led to her being raised from the dead and many turning to the Lord.
3. HOW KINDNESS OPENS DOORS FOR EVANGELISM
Acts of kindness break barriers and create opportunities to share Christ.
a) Kindness softens hardened hearts (Romans 2:4)
The goodness of God leads people to repentance.
b) Love attracts people to the gospel (John 13:35)
When we show love, people see Jesus in us.
c) Acts of kindness create divine connections (Proverbs 3:3-4)
Favour opens doors to share the gospel.
d) Kindness overcomes hostility and wins souls (Romans 12:20-21)
Doing good to enemies turns them toward Christ.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-14)
After receiving physical food, the crowd eagerly listened to Jesus' message.
4. CHALLENGES IN EVANGELISM THROUGH KINDNESS
While kindness is powerful, it comes with challenges.
a) Some may take advantage of kindness (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12)
We must discern when to help and when to encourage responsibility.
b) People may misunderstand motives (Matthew 26:6-13)
Even Jesus was criticised for showing kindness.
c) Some hearts remain ungrateful (Luke 17:11-19)
Not everyone will appreciate acts of kindness, but we must continue.
d) Limited resources to meet endless needs (John 12:8)
We cannot help everyone, but we must do what we can.
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s kindness to the shipwrecked crew (Acts 28:1-10)
Though bitten by a viper, Paul’s kindness and miracles led to many believing in Christ.
5. PRACTICAL WAYS TO EVANGELISE THROUGH KINDNESS
Every believer can use kindness as a tool for evangelism.
a) Be intentional in showing kindness daily (Colossians 3:12)
Make kindness a habit in everyday life.
b) Support the needy and charitable works (Proverbs 14:31)
Giving to the less fortunate pleases God.
c) Volunteer in community outreach and missions (Isaiah 58:10)
Serving others reflects Christ’s love.
d) Use kindness as a conversation starter for evangelism (1 Peter 3:15)
Acts of kindness create opportunities to share the gospel.
e) Biblical Example: Joseph’s kindness to his brothers (Genesis 50:19-21)
His act of forgiveness and kindness revealed God’s mercy.
CONCLUSION:
Evangelism is not only about preaching; it is also about demonstrating the love of Christ through acts of kindness. In a world filled with pain, our good works shine as a light, leading many to glorify God. True evangelism is not just in words but also in action.
As believers, we must make it a priority to express our faith through kindness. Whether by feeding the hungry, helping the needy, or simply showing compassion to others, our actions can open doors for the gospel. Let us commit ourselves to evangelism through acts of kindness, knowing that each act of love is a seed planted for the Kingdom of God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, fill me with Your love so that I can reflect it to others.
2. Father, make me a vessel of kindness that draws people to Christ.
3. Holy Spirit, open doors for me to evangelise through good works.
4. Lord, help me to be generous and compassionate to those in need.
5. May my acts of kindness lead many souls to salvation in Jesus’ name.
