Evangelism and Missions

Course Overview

Evangelism and Missions

Evangelism and missions are ways by which the message of the saving work of God is propagated throughout the world. They are manifestations of the activity of God’s Word and Spirit. In both the Old and New Testaments, God calls believers to participate in advancing the message of the gospel among the nations.

Evangelism and missions are essential aspects of spreading the Christian faith across the world. Let’s delve into their significance.

Evangelism

1. Definition: Evangelism involves sharing the message of God’s saving grace and working with others. It is the practice of spreading the Christian faith, or belief in salvation.
2. Biblical Basis: Both the Old and New Testaments emphasize the call for believers to participate in advancing the gospel among the nations. The focal point of evangelism is the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ.
3. Purpose: Evangelism aims to make and mature disciples through the ministry of God’s Word. It goes beyond mere proclamation; it involves nurturing and guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of faith.
4. Divine Initiative: The first preaching of the gospel occurred after the fall of Adam and Eve. God proclaimed the protoevangelium—the message of His gracious work in Christ—which includes defeating the devil, atonement for sin, and deliverance into God’s kingdom.
5. God’s Sovereignty: Far from diminishing the need for evangelism, God’s sovereignty fuels the church’s evangelistic efforts. Believers are called to participate actively in sharing the gospel.

Missions

• Definition: Missions refer to the outward impulse of Christianity. It involves carrying the gospel to the nations beyond one’s immediate context.
• Mission vs. Evangelism: While evangelism focuses on sharing the gospel, missions encompass broader activities. Missionaries, empowered by the Holy Spirit and sent out by Jesus, cross geographical, cultural, and linguistic boundaries to spread the gospel and bring salvation to the elect.
• Redemptive History: God’s missionary purpose continued through redemptive history. He called Abraham and formed the nation of Israel to be a light to the nations. Jesus, as the true Israel of God, secured the Abrahamic blessing for all nations through His work.
• God’s Heart for the World: God’s heart extends beyond Israel to embrace all peoples. Missionaries play a vital role in fulfilling God’s command to carry the gospel globally.

In summary, evangelism and missions are manifestations of God’s Word and Spirit at work. They are not separate endeavours but interconnected ways of advancing the message of salvation throughout the world.