It took just one person, Jesus Christ, to spark a movement that changed history. His ministry on earth lasted only three years, during which time Jesus chose twelve men to serve alongside Him. Who were these individuals, and what inspired them to boldly share the message of the Gospel—even at the cost of their own lives?
John MacArthur, in his book Twelve Ordinary Men, emphasizes that these disciples were not saints, scholars, or wise religious leaders. Instead, they were ordinary people: fishermen, a tax collector despised by many, a passionate zealot, and even one who would later betray Jesus. Yet, Jesus transformed these everyday men into powerful witnesses of the Gospel (with the exception of Judas, the betrayer).
Their message was clear: Jesus is the Son of God, who lived a perfect life, was crucified to atone for our sins, died, was buried in a borrowed tomb, and rose from the dead on the third day.
He appeared to His disciples and more than 500 others, then ascended into Heaven, where He now serves as our advocate before the Father.
As the well-known verse John 3:16 says, God sent His only Son, Jesus, to bear the punishment we deserved—death—so that those who believe in Him will not perish, but have eternal life with Christ in Heaven.
This is the essence of the "Good News" or Gospel.
However, this Good News only brings hope to those who accept it.
For those who reject it, the outcome is the opposite: eternal separation from God.
Sadly, many turn away from this free gift.
Today, our world seems to drift further from the life God intends for us, moving instead toward the temptations that Satan presents.
Society’s values are eroding; we idolize celebrities, athletes, wealth, careers, and leisure.
The Bible openly teaches that God created two genders—male and female—and established marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
It also makes clear that acts such as homosexuality, adultery, theft, lying, cheating, coveting, murder, disrespecting parents, cursing, gambling, drunkenness, and promiscuity are sins in God's eyes, and deserving of judgment.
Given the state of our world, it is increasingly important for Christians to be as courageous as the early believers, boldly sharing the Good News with a world in need.
We cannot be passive observers; we are called to actively tell those around us about Jesus Christ.
If we remain silent, many people—friends, acquaintances, even family—may continue down the broad road that leads to destruction.
What, then, can a small church do?
How can we possibly make a difference in a world that seems to be collapsing?
We may feel we lack the resources, time, or abilities for such a task.
But first, we need to recognize that the things we often value—wealth, homes, cars, clothing, comfort, and leisure—are fleeting and insignificant compared to eternity.
All these things will be left behind when we die.
The effort we put into sharing the Gospel, however, can have eternal consequences for countless souls, including people we may never realize we reached directly.
Others may be moved by simply observing the way we live our lives.
Imagine the legacy of knowing that, because you cared enough to share the Good News, there are people who will spend eternity in Heaven rather than Hell.
That is the extraordinary impact each one of us can have when we embrace and proclaim the message of Jesus Christ.
What Is the Gospel?
“Gospel” means “good news,” and it’s the core message of Christianity—God’s gracious rescue plan for humanity.
At its core: We were made for God, but have all sinned and fallen short of His glory (Romans 3:23).
Our sin separates us from God, and we stand under His just judgment.
But God, in love, sent Jesus to live a perfect life and to die in our place (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose again, conquering sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).
By repenting and believing in Jesus, anyone can be forgiven, reconciled to God, and receive eternal life (Romans 10:9–10; John 5:24).
This is not simply religion—it’s a relationship, a restored connection with God Himself.
As 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) declares, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
Why does sharing the Gospel matter so much?
If this message really is the answer to humanity’s deepest needs, sharing it becomes essential.
Jesus commanded it: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19, ESV).
It’s the only way people can be saved: “And there is salvation in no one else…” (Acts 4:12, ESV).
It brings true, abundant life: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10, ESV).
It is the most loving thing we can do: “For the love of Christ controls us…” (2 Corinthians 5:14, ESV).
It’s natural for smaller congregations to feel limited—lacking in resources, numbers, or influence.
Yet, as history shows, God delights in using the humble for mighty purposes.
Here are practical ways every small church can make an eternal impact:
1. Personal Outreach and Relational Evangelism
Action: Encourage every member to build genuine relationships with neighbors, coworkers, and acquaintances, seeking opportunities to share what Jesus has done in their lives.
Example: Organize a church-wide “Pray for Five” campaign, where each member commits to pray for five specific people and look for openings to share the Gospel with them.
2. Community Service with a Gospel Focus
Action: Meet practical needs in your community—organizing food drives, helping the elderly, cleaning up parks, or offering tutoring—always pairing service with intentional conversations about Christ’s love.
Example: Host a “Serve the Community Day” where volunteers not only lend a hand, but also share Gospel tracts and offer prayer.
3. Hospitality and Inviting
Action: Foster a culture where members regularly invite friends, family, and newcomers to church events, Bible studies, or even for a meal at home.
Example: Plan a monthly “Invite a Friend Sunday” with a special meal or coffee time, designed to create a welcoming environment where guests can hear about Jesus.
4. Leverage Technology and Social Media
Action: Even on a modest budget, churches can create a simple website, share encouraging posts and testimonies on social media, or livestream services.
Example: Form a volunteer team to regularly post Bible verses, testimonies, and event invitations on Facebook or WhatsApp groups.
5. Prayer and Intercession
Action: Gather regularly as a church to pray for the lost—naming people in your community who need to hear the Good News.
Example: Hold a weekly prayer meeting focusing on specific individuals or needs in your town, asking God to open doors and give boldness.
6. Children and Youth Outreach
Action: Offer child- and youth-centered programs, such as after-school clubs, Vacation Bible School (VBS), or sports ministries—always keeping the Gospel front and center.
Example: Host a summer VBS or a Saturday sports clinic that concludes with a short Gospel message and an opportunity for questions.
7. Partnership with Other Churches or Ministries
Action: Collaborate with neighboring congregations or Christian organizations for outreach events, mission trips, or training sessions.
Example: Co-host a citywide evangelistic concert, community festival, or Christmas celebration, pooling resources for a broader impact.
8. Live Out the Gospel Daily
Action: Encourage members to reflect Christ’s love, integrity, and hope in their everyday actions, prompting curiosity and conversations about faith.
Example: Share testimonies during worship of how kindness or forgiveness led to conversations about Jesus.
9. Distribute Gospel Materials
Action: Equip members with accessible booklets, tracts, or Bibles to share with others.
Example: Place a rack with free Bibles and tracts at church, or distribute invitation cards to neighbors.
A Lasting Legacy: One Life at a Time
Even as a small congregation, your faithful and creative efforts can introduce many to the hope of Jesus.
Remember, the early church began with only a handful of ordinary people, but God multiplied their humble efforts beyond what they could imagine.
Do not focus on what you lack—focus on the eternal difference you can make, one life at a time.
When you share the Good News, whether in words or loving action, you lay up treasure in heaven and may help someone find eternal life in Christ.
“For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13, ESV)
Let’s not keep this treasure to ourselves.
Let’s share the Gospel boldly—one relationship, one act of kindness, one invitation at a time.
