SHARING THE GOOD NEWS IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 2 Timothy 4:2
Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, Romans 1:16, 1 Corinthians 9:16, Proverbs 11:30
INTRODUCTION:
The Great Commission is not a seasonal assignment; it is a continuous mandate for every believer. In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul instructs Timothy to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season." This means sharing the gospel at all times—whether it is convenient or not, whether we feel ready or not, whether the environment is favourable or hostile.
The world is constantly changing, but the need for salvation remains the same. Many souls are perishing because believers fail to share the Good News consistently. Some wait for "the right time," while others feel inadequate or afraid. However, we are called to be Christ’s witnesses at all times.
In this message, we will explore why we must share the gospel consistently, the challenges we may face, and how to be effective soul-winners in every season.
1. SHARING THE GOOD NEWS IS A DIVINE COMMAND
Evangelism is not optional—it is an instruction from Jesus.
a) The Great Commission is a command, not a suggestion (Matthew 28:19-20)
Jesus commands us to go into all the world and make disciples.
b) Every believer is a minister of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)
We are Christ’s ambassadors, sent to bring people back to God.
c) The gospel is the power of salvation (Romans 1:16)
Without hearing the gospel, people cannot be saved.
d) We must be faithful stewards of the message (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)
God has entrusted us with His Word; we must preach it faithfully.
e) Biblical Example: The Apostles Obeyed Without Delay (Acts 5:42)
Despite persecution, they preached the gospel daily in the temple and from house to house.
2. THE GOSPEL MUST BE PREACHED IN ALL SEASONS
We must share the gospel whether conditions are favourable or not.
a) Preach in times of acceptance and rejection (Acts 17:32-34)
Some will believe, some will mock, but we must keep preaching.
b) Share the gospel whether it is convenient or not (Jeremiah 20:9)
Jeremiah wanted to keep quiet, but God’s Word burned in his heart.
c) Be ready to witness in any situation (1 Peter 3:15)
Always be prepared to give an answer for your faith.
d) Do not be discouraged by opposition (Matthew 10:22)
Persecution will come, but those who endure will be saved.
e) Biblical Example: Paul Preached in Chains (Philippians 1:12-14)
Even in prison, Paul continued to share the gospel boldly.
3. CHALLENGES TO SHARING THE GOSPEL AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM
Many factors hinder believers from evangelising, but they can be overcome.
a) Fear of rejection (2 Timothy 1:7)
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
b) Lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6)
Study the Word and be equipped to share the gospel effectively.
c) Feeling unworthy (Isaiah 6:8-9)
God uses willing vessels, not perfect people.
d) Distractions of life (Luke 9:62)
Keep your focus on the kingdom and prioritise soul-winning.
e) Biblical Example: Moses Overcame His Insecurities (Exodus 4:10-12)
Moses felt unqualified, but God assured him He would be with him.
4. STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE EVANGELISM
We must be wise and strategic in how we share the gospel.
a) Use every available platform (Mark 16:15)
Share the gospel in churches, workplaces, social media, and personal interactions.
b) Demonstrate the gospel through love and kindness (John 13:35)
People are drawn to Christ when they see His love in action.
c) Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading (Acts 8:29-35)
The Spirit will guide you to people who are ready to receive the gospel.
d) Pray for open doors and receptive hearts (Colossians 4:3)
Pray for opportunities and that the hearts of listeners will be open.
e) Biblical Example: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39)
Philip was led by the Spirit to a man who was ready to receive Christ.
5. THE REWARD OF CONSISTENT EVANGELISM
Faithful soul-winners will receive both earthly and eternal rewards.
a) Heaven rejoices over every soul saved (Luke 15:7)
Every conversion brings joy in heaven.
b) Soul-winners are wise (Proverbs 11:30)
Winning souls is the greatest investment in eternity.
c) There is a special crown for soul-winners (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)
A reward awaits those who bring others to Christ.
d) God provides for those who serve Him (Matthew 6:33)
When we prioritise evangelism, God meets our needs.
e) Biblical Example: The Woman at the Well (John 4:28-30, 39-42)
Her testimony led many in her city to believe in Jesus.
CONCLUSION:
Sharing the gospel is a lifelong assignment, not a seasonal activity. Paul’s charge to Timothy applies to us today: we must be ready to share the Good News at all times—whether convenient or not.
Are you actively spreading the gospel, or are you waiting for the "right moment"? The right time is now! Let us arise with boldness and share the message of Christ to a dying world.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me boldness to preach Your Word in every season.
2. Holy Spirit, empower me to be an effective witness for Christ.
3. Father, open doors for me to share the gospel daily.
4. Lord, remove every fear and doubt hindering my evangelism.
5. Father, let my life be a testimony that draws others to You.
6. Lord, give me wisdom to reach different people with the gospel.
7. I receive divine favour to be a soul-winner in Jesus’ name.
8. Father, make me a vessel of honour for Your kingdom.
9. Lord, let many come to Christ through my witness.
10. Holy Spirit, lead me to those who are ready to receive salvation.
