![[PC-USA]](../gifs/janlogo.gif)
Devotional - 99-06-27 - Passages about Evangelism
As many of you know, on Sundays we simply present the word of God and let it speak for itself. This type of devotional is per the special requests of some of our readers. This week we will look at some passages related to witnessing. Although God has specifically given some of us the gift of evangelism, all of us are to be God's salt and light in the world. In fact, Creation itself has an inherently evangelistic nature.
God's Creation Witnesses to His Nature and Glory:
Psa 19:1-3 (NRSV) The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard.Rom 1:20-21 (NRSV) Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse; for though they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their senseless minds were darkened.
We All Bear Responsibility for Sharing what Jesus Does in Our lives:
Mark 5:18-19 (NRSV) As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed by demons begged him that he might be with him. But Jesus refused, and said to him, "Go home to your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and what mercy he has shown you.1 Pet 3:15-16 (NIV) But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Some are Especially Called to be Evangelists:
Eph 4:11-12 (NRSV) The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.Mat 28:16-20 (NRSV) Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.