The Evangelism Arena; Insights From 2nd Corinthians 4Sample

Day One: The Participants

Therefore having this ministry. . . the god of this world. . .For God who said. . . (2 Cor. 4:1, 4, 6 ESV).

Who are the participants in “The Evangelism Arena," and what are their roles? The first one noted in the verse above are those who have “this ministry,” whom we’ll refer to as Messengers. The messengers are the followers of Jesus who evangelize (like you and me). With respect to those in this role, establishing a definition for evangelism will serve useful (although this reading plan will utilize “a witness for Christ,” and “sharing our faith” interchangeably for evangelism).

The term evangelism means to “announce good news.” In this case, the good news of Jesus Christ (the gospel). The news about his death, burial, and resurrection, and the promise of eternal life through faith in him. Therefore, whenever you and I share the good news, we participate in evangelism. This can be done in a variety of ways, like talking with an individual/group, studying the Bible with someone, inviting people to church so they can hear about Jesus, or providing a print or media resource. Therefore, believers in Christ participate in evangelism whenever they expose others to the gospel.

The next participant in this arena is the god of this world, the devil, who desires to stop the advance of the gospel. One of his strategies is to blind and deceive those without Christ. A second strategy is to cause spiritual casualties among Christians, discouraging us from sharing our faith. But Jesus is Lord and the one with “all authority,” who will help us to endure as his witness if we choose (Matt. 28:18). Which leads to the third participant in this arena. . . God.

Later in this reading plan, the Lord’s direct role will be addressed. However, as each day unfolds, a useful exercise would be to reflect upon the way that God is helping us relative to that day’s topic. And how the devil is trying to make us give up.

A final note. This plan is designed to provide encouragement and support, not guilt relative to your participation in evangelism. If you experience conviction, that’s a good thing. When the Holy Spirit imparts this, it’s not to “deflate us,” instead, it’s an invitation for us to respond and “come up higher.” To grow and mature in our walk with Christ and the mission he gave us.

Reflection: Prayerfully consider developing a list of 3 to 5 people you know without Christ whom you can pray for regularly.

Further Study

2 Corinthians 4
Galatians 6:9