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The Universal Call To Preach The Good News Of Christ Series
Contributed by Shaila Touchton on Jan 21, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: The Bible teaches that every believer is called to preach the good news of Christ.
As believers, we are often reminded of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations." However, this calling is not limited to a select few or only those in full-time ministry. The Bible teaches that every believer is called to preach the good news of Christ.
A Mandate for All Believers
In Mark 16:15, Jesus commands His disciples to "go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." The Greek word used for "preach" is "kerysso," which means "to proclaim" or "to herald." This command is not limited to a select few, but is a mandate for all believers.
The Priesthood of All Believers
In 1 Peter 2:9, we are told that we are "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession." As a royal priesthood, we are called to proclaim the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
Ambassadors for Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5:20, we are referred to as "Christ's ambassadors." An ambassador is a representative of a king or government, tasked with communicating the message of their sovereign. As ambassadors for Christ, we are called to represent Him and proclaim His message of salvation to a lost and dying world.
The Ministry of Reconciliation
In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, we are told that God has given us "the ministry of reconciliation." This ministry involves proclaiming the good news that through Christ, God has reconciled the world to Himself. As believers, we are called to participate in this ministry, urging others to be reconciled to God through faith in Christ.
Every Believer is a Minister
In Ephesians 4:11-12, we are told that Christ has given gifts to the church, including evangelists, pastors, and teachers. However, the purpose of these gifts is not to create a hierarchy or limit the ministry to a select few. Rather, the purpose is to "equip His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Ephesians 4:12).
A Call to All Believers
In Romans 10:14-15, we are asked, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" The answer is clear: every believer is called to preach the good news of Christ.
Conclusion
The call to preach the good news of Christ is not limited to a select few or only those in full-time ministry. As believers, we are all called to participate in the ministry of reconciliation, urging others to be reconciled to God through faith in Christ. May we take this calling seriously, using every opportunity to share the good news of Christ with a lost and dying world.May God empower us to fulfill this calling, for the sake of His glory and the salvation of humanity.
May God empower us to fulfill this calling, for the sake of His glory and the salvation of humanity.