Evangelism is central to the Christian faith, as it embodies the mission of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. The Bible offers numerous verses that provide guidance on how to engage in evangelism, focusing on love, compassion, and truth. These scriptures emphasize the importance of spreading the gospel and offer wisdom and encouragement for those who take on this crucial role.
Christians are called to be living examples of Christ’s love, reaching out to others with the hope and salvation found in Him. Reflecting on these verses can strengthen a believer’s commitment and inspire a more thoughtful approach to sharing their faith, ensuring that the message of Christ is communicated with authenticity and grace.
Bible Verses About Evangelism
1. Matthew 28:19-20
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
In these verses, Jesus commands His followers to spread the Gospel, emphasising the importance of evangelism in the Christian faith. The directive to make disciples of all nations underscores the global nature of this mission. Evangelism isn’t limited to a specific region or people; it’s a call to all believers to share the good news universally.
Furthermore, Jesus reassures His disciples that they will not be alone in this task. His promise to be with them “always, to the end of the age” serves as a powerful reminder that the presence of Christ accompanies those who evangelise. This assurance provides the necessary courage and faith to fulfil this great commission.
2. Romans 10:14
“How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”
Paul highlights the critical role of preaching in the process of salvation. He presents a logical sequence that begins with belief, which itself is predicated on hearing the Gospel. Evangelism is, therefore, essential, as it is the means by which people come to know and believe in Christ.
Without the act of preaching, people remain unaware of the salvation available to them through Jesus. This verse underlines the responsibility of every Christian to share the Gospel, ensuring that others have the opportunity to hear, believe, and be saved. The necessity of preaching serves as a call to action for all believers.
3. Mark 16:15
“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.’”
This verse reiterates the universal nature of the Gospel message. Jesus’ command to “go into all the world” indicates that the message of salvation is for everyone, without exception. The call to evangelise is not just for the apostles but extends to all who follow Christ.
The phrase “proclaim the gospel to the whole creation” emphasises the inclusivity of the message. It’s a reminder that the good news of Jesus Christ is relevant and necessary for every individual, regardless of their background or status. The task of evangelism is, therefore, a continuous and far-reaching endeavour.
4. Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Jesus promises His disciples that they will receive power through the Holy Spirit, enabling them to be effective witnesses. This verse indicates that evangelism is not merely a human effort but is empowered by the Holy Spirit. The geographical progression mentioned—Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth—shows the expanding scope of their mission.
The Holy Spirit’s role in evangelism is crucial, as it provides the strength and boldness needed to share the Gospel. This verse encourages believers to rely on the Spirit’s guidance and empowerment as they carry out the work of spreading the good news. The mention of different regions symbolises that the Gospel is to reach all corners of the world.
5. 1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
Peter urges Christians to be ready to explain their faith to others. This readiness is not just about having the right words but also about maintaining a respectful and gentle attitude. Evangelism involves both proclaiming the Gospel and embodying its values in how we interact with others.
The emphasis on gentleness and respect highlights the importance of the manner in which the Gospel is shared. It’s a reminder that the way we present the message is as crucial as the message itself. This verse encourages believers to be thoughtful and considerate when sharing their faith, ensuring that their witness is both effective and compassionate.
6. Luke 24:47
“And that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
Jesus outlines the core message of evangelism: repentance and the forgiveness of sins. This message is to be proclaimed “in his name,” emphasising that it is through Christ that forgiveness is made possible. The global scope of this mission is again highlighted, beginning with Jerusalem and extending to all nations.
The focus on repentance underscores the transformative nature of the Gospel. Evangelism is about sharing information and inviting people into a life-changing relationship with Christ. The instruction to start in Jerusalem and then move outward reflects the natural progression of spreading the Gospel, beginning locally and then reaching out globally.
7. 2 Timothy 4:2
“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
Paul instructs Timothy to preach the word consistently, regardless of the circumstances. The phrase “in season and out of season” suggests that the opportunity to share the Gospel is always present. Evangelism requires both readiness and perseverance, as it involves addressing both the needs and challenges of those we encounter.
This verse also highlights the varied aspects of evangelism, including reproving, rebuking, and exhorting. These actions, however, are to be done with patience and sound teaching. This balance ensures that the message is delivered effectively and lovingly, meeting people where they are while guiding them toward truth.
8. John 20:21
“Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.’”
In this verse, Jesus commissions His disciples, sending them out just as He was sent by the Father. This parallel between Jesus’ mission and the mission of His followers emphasises the continuity of God’s plan for salvation. The peace Jesus offers serves as a foundation for the disciples’ work, providing them with the assurance needed for their task.
The act of being sent mirrors the purpose and authority with which Jesus was sent. This verse reminds believers that their mission is a divine one, rooted in the very purpose of Christ’s coming to earth. Evangelism is therefore an extension of Jesus’ own ministry, carried out by those who follow Him.
9. Acts 4:12
“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
This verse underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ. It declares that there is no other name by which people can be saved, affirming the necessity of evangelism. The message of the Gospel is not just one option among many; it is the only path to salvation.
The emphasis on the singularity of Christ’s name as the source of salvation highlights the urgency of sharing the Gospel. Evangelism becomes a crucial task, as it involves bringing people to the only way of being reconciled with God. This verse reinforces the importance of proclaiming the name of Jesus as the sole means of salvation.
10. 2 Corinthians 5:20
“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”
Paul describes believers as ambassadors for Christ, representing Him and His message to the world. This role involves not only sharing the Gospel but also appealing to others to be reconciled to God. Evangelism is presented as an urgent and heartfelt plea driven by the desire for others to experience the reconciliation offered through Christ.
Being an ambassador for Christ implies a responsibility to faithfully represent Him in both word and deed. The appeal to be reconciled to God reflects the heart of evangelism: bringing people into a restored relationship with their Creator. This verse challenges believers to take their role seriously, recognising the significance of their witness.
11. Matthew 9:37-38
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’”
Jesus uses the metaphor of a harvest to describe the vast number of people ready to receive the Gospel. However, He also notes the shortage of labourers willing to take on the task of evangelism. This call to pray for more labourers highlights the need for more Christians to actively engage in sharing their faith.
The imagery of the harvest suggests both the urgency and the opportunity present in evangelism. There are many who are ready to hear and accept the Gospel, but the task requires more willing workers. This verse serves as both a call to prayer and a reminder of the critical need for more evangelists.
12. Colossians 4:5-6
“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
Paul advises believers to be wise in their interactions with those outside the faith. The instruction to “make the best use of the time” suggests an awareness of the opportunities for evangelism that present themselves in everyday life. Wisdom in evangelism involves both seizing these opportunities and approaching them with grace.
The metaphor of speech being “seasoned with salt” implies that the way we communicate the Gospel should be both appealing and preserving. Evangelism is not just about what we say but also how we say it. This verse encourages believers to approach each conversation with thoughtfulness, ensuring that their words reflect the grace and truth of the Gospel.
13. John 4:35
“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.”
Jesus challenges His disciples to recognise the immediacy of the evangelistic task. The fields being “white for harvest” indicates that the time to evangelise is now, not in some distant future. This urgency is a call to action, urging believers to be attentive to the opportunities around them.
The metaphor of the harvest suggests that there is a readiness among people to receive the Gospel. Evangelism, therefore, requires both awareness and willingness to act. This verse serves as a reminder that the opportunity to share the Gospel is often closer than we think, and the time to act is now.
14. 1 Corinthians 9:16
“For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!”
Paul expresses the deep sense of obligation he feels to preach the Gospel. He recognises that this task is not optional but a necessity laid upon him by God. The phrase “woe to me if I do not preach the gospel” underscores the seriousness with which he views his evangelistic duty.
This verse reflects the inner compulsion that drives true evangelism. It is not about seeking personal glory but fulfilling a divine mandate. Paul’s sense of urgency and responsibility challenges all believers to take their evangelistic calling seriously, recognising it as an essential part of their Christian life.
15. Isaiah 6:8
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’”
Isaiah’s response to God’s call reflects the willing heart required for effective evangelism. The Lord’s question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” reveals the need for willing messengers to carry out His work. Isaiah’s immediate response, “Here I am! Send me,” exemplifies the readiness to serve.
This verse highlights the importance of availability and willingness in evangelism. God seeks those who are ready to step forward and take on the task of spreading His message. Isaiah’s example serves as an inspiration for believers to respond with the same eagerness and commitment when called to share the Gospel.
16. Luke 10:2
“And he said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’”
This verse parallels Matthew 9:37-38, reinforcing the message of a plentiful harvest and the need for more labourers. Jesus’ instruction to pray for more workers highlights the importance of intercession in the work of evangelism. The need for more labourers reflects the vastness of the task and the urgency of the mission.
The imagery of the harvest again points to the readiness of many to receive the Gospel. However, the shortage of workers implies that more believers need to step up and engage in evangelism. This verse encourages believers to pray for more evangelists and consider how they might themselves be called to participate in the harvest.
17. 1 Thessalonians 2:8
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.”
Paul’s words to the Thessalonians reveal the relational aspect of evangelism. Sharing the Gospel is not just about imparting information but also involves sharing one’s life with others. The deep affection Paul expresses shows that evangelism is rooted in genuine care for those being reached.
This verse highlights the importance of building relationships in evangelism. Effective witness often comes through a combination of sharing the Gospel and demonstrating Christ’s love through personal connection. Paul’s example encourages believers to approach evangelism with both truth and love, recognising the value of those they seek to reach.
18. Matthew 24:14
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Jesus speaks of the global spread of the Gospel as a precursor to the end times. The proclamation of the Gospel to all nations is presented as a necessary step in God’s plan. This verse underscores the importance of evangelism in fulfilling God’s purposes for the world.
The global scope of this mission reflects the inclusivity of the Gospel message. Every nation is to hear the good news, ensuring that no one is left out of the opportunity for salvation. This verse serves as a reminder of the urgency and importance of evangelism in the broader context of God’s redemptive plan.
19. Philippians 1:18
“What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretence or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.”
Paul expresses his joy in the fact that Christ is being proclaimed, regardless of the motives behind it. This verse highlights the priority of the message over the messenger. The important thing is that the Gospel is being shared, and for that, Paul rejoices.
This perspective encourages believers to focus on the spread of the Gospel, even when it comes through imperfect means. The message of Christ has the power to transcend the shortcomings of those who deliver it. Paul’s attitude reminds believers to rejoice whenever the Gospel is preached, trusting in its inherent power to bring salvation.
20. Acts 8:4
“Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.”
In the face of persecution, the early Christians were scattered, yet they continued to preach the word. This verse illustrates the resilience and commitment of believers to evangelism, even in difficult circumstances. The spreading of the Gospel was not hindered by adversity but was instead amplified through the believers’ unwavering dedication.
The scattering of the believers resulted in the wider dissemination of the Gospel. This shows how God can use even challenging situations to further His purposes. The early Christians’ example serves as an inspiration to continue sharing the Gospel, regardless of the obstacles faced.
21. Proverbs 11:30
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise.”
This proverb links righteousness with the fruitful work of evangelism. The metaphor of the Tree of Life suggests that the righteous produce something that is life-giving and enduring. Capturing souls or leading others to faith is presented as a wise and noble pursuit.
The connection between righteousness and evangelism indicates that a life lived in accordance with God’s will naturally leads to the sharing of the Gospel. The wisdom of capturing souls reflects the eternal significance of evangelism. This verse encourages believers to see evangelism as a wise and fruitful endeavour, one that brings life to others.
22. 2 Corinthians 2:14
“But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.”
Paul describes the spread of the Gospel as a “fragrance” that permeates everywhere believers go. This imagery suggests that evangelism is not just about direct proclamation but also about the influence of a Christ-centred life. Wherever believers go, they carry with them the knowledge of Christ, impacting those around them.
The idea of being led in a triumphal procession reflects the victory and authority that comes through Christ. Evangelism, therefore, is not just an obligation but a celebration of the victory found in Jesus. This verse encourages believers to see their witness as part of a larger, triumphant movement, spreading the knowledge of Christ far and wide.
23. 1 Corinthians 3:6
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”
Paul explains the collaborative nature of evangelism, where different individuals play different roles, but ultimately, God is the one who brings growth. This verse highlights the importance of each person’s contribution to the work of spreading the Gospel, while also acknowledging that the results are in God’s hands.
The roles of planting and watering suggest that evangelism is a process that involves various stages and participants. This perspective encourages believers to be faithful in their part of the process, trusting that God will bring about the desired outcomes. The verse also emphasises the need for humility, recognising that it is God who ultimately brings growth.
24. Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Jesus describes His followers as the light of the world, implying that their lives should illuminate the truth of the Gospel. The metaphor of a city on a hill suggests visibility and influence, indicating that believers are to be seen and their message heard. Evangelism, therefore, involves both word and deed, as believers live out the Gospel in a way that draws others to it.
The visibility of a city on a hill also suggests that the witness of believers cannot be easily hidden. This verse challenges Christians to embrace their role as lights in the world, shining the truth of the Gospel through their lives. The call to be a light underscores the responsibility of every believer to engage in evangelism, making the message of Christ known to all.
25. Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
Paul boldly declares his confidence in the Gospel, recognising it as the power of God for salvation. This verse reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, capable of bringing salvation to all who believe, regardless of their background. Paul’s lack of shame in proclaiming the Gospel serves as a model for believers to follow.
The universal scope of the Gospel, reaching both Jews and Greeks, emphasises its inclusivity. Evangelism, therefore, is a call to share this powerful message with everyone, without discrimination. Paul’s conviction encourages believers to embrace the Gospel with the same boldness and confidence, knowing that it carries the power to save.
26. 1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
Peter encourages believers to be ready to explain their faith but with an attitude of gentleness and respect. This verse highlights the importance of being prepared to share the Gospel while maintaining a Christlike demeanour in doing so. Evangelism, according to Peter, involves both readiness and the right attitude.
The call to honour Christ as holy in one’s heart suggests that effective evangelism begins with a deep, personal commitment to the Lord. This internal reverence for Christ then overflows into a readiness to share the hope of the Gospel with others. Peter’s guidance reminds believers that how they share the Gospel is just as important as what they share.
27. Isaiah 52:7
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’”
This verse poetically describes the beauty of those who bring the message of salvation. The imagery of “beautiful feet” highlights the honour and value of those who spread the Gospel. The message of peace, happiness, and salvation they bring is seen as a gift to those who receive it.
The declaration that “Your God reigns” underscores the central message of the Gospel: God’s sovereign rule and the salvation He offers. This verse encourages believers to see evangelism as a noble and beautiful task, one that brings joy and peace to those who hear it. The imagery also serves as a reminder of the positive impact that the Gospel can have on individuals and communities.
28. 2 Timothy 4:5
“As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil your ministry.”
Paul’s charge to Timothy includes the call to “do the work of an evangelist.” This verse highlights the importance of staying focused, enduring hardships, and faithfully fulfilling one’s ministry. Evangelism is presented as an essential aspect of Timothy’s calling, requiring diligence and perseverance.
The instruction to be sober-minded and endure suffering reflects the reality that evangelism can be challenging. However, Paul’s encouragement to fulfil the ministry reminds believers that the task is worth the effort. This verse challenges Christians to take their evangelistic responsibilities seriously, remaining steadfast in their commitment to share the Gospel.
29. Psalm 96:3
“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous works among all the peoples!”
The psalmist calls for the declaration of God’s glory and marvellous works to all nations. This verse reflects the universal scope of evangelism, emphasising the need to share God’s greatness with the whole world. The focus on “all the peoples” suggests that the message of God’s glory is for everyone, regardless of nationality or background.
The act of declaring God’s glory is both an act of worship and evangelism. By sharing the marvellous works of God, believers fulfil their role in spreading the Gospel. This verse encourages Christians to see evangelism as part of their worship, proclaiming God’s greatness to all who will listen.
30. Romans 10:14
“How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?”
Paul lays out the logical necessity of evangelism in this verse. For people to believe in Christ, they must first hear about Him, which requires someone to preach the Gospel to them. This verse underscores the critical role of evangelism in the process of salvation, highlighting the responsibility of believers to share the message of Christ.
The sequence Paul describes shows that evangelism is essential for people to come to faith. Without the preaching of the Gospel, people cannot believe, and without belief, they cannot be saved. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of evangelism in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Conclusion
The Bible offers valuable guidance on evangelism, helping Christians fulfil their mission to share the message of Jesus Christ. The verses remind believers of their duty to spread their faith with love, compassion, and integrity. By internalising these teachings, Christians can confidently engage in evangelism, assured that they are supported by divine wisdom.
As representatives of Christ, it is crucial to reflect His love in every interaction, providing hope and the promise of salvation to those who need it. Reflecting on these scriptures can enhance one’s understanding of their evangelistic role, ensuring that the gospel is shared in a manner that honours God and deeply resonates with others.