The Call to Be an Evangelist: A Controversial Discussion

The question of whether every Christian should be an evangelist is one that has sparked much debate among scholars and believers alike. From a theological standpoint, the Bible clearly mandates that believers spread the Good News. However, the practical implications of this mandate are open to interpretation. Let's delve into the biblical underpinnings and explore the various views on this subject.

The Biblical Mandate: Jesus' Commandments

At the core of the discussion is the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, and Luke 14:23. These passages call for believers to 'make disciples' and 'preach the gospel to every creature'. These commands are fundamental to Christian theology and complicate the question of who exactly is an evangelist.

Further, in Acts 1:8, Jesus gives the apostles a specific mission: to be witnesses to 'all nations' and to spread the Good News. This directive is seen as both a call to action and a spiritual responsibility.

The Apostolic Perspective

The apostles themselves recognized their roles as evangelists. The apostle Paul, for instance, refers to himself and others as evangelists in Ephesians 4:11. He clearly states that evangelists are part of the divine order intended to guide believers in the path of redemption.

Interpreting the Call to All Christians

While the Bible acknowledges the importance of evangelism, its implications for every Christian are often debated. Many believe that everyone, regardless of their specific role in the church, has a part to play in spreading the Good News. This view is supported by statements like these:

“And since we have the same Spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believe; therefore I speak.” – 2 Corinthians 4:13

Paul also speaks of the Thessalonians as those who 'preach not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere' – 1 Thessalonians 1:5. This passage suggests that everyone has a natural inclination and duty to spread the gospel.

The Skeptical Perspective

However, not all Christians or theologians subscribe to the idea that every individual must be an evangelist. There are several valid concerns and interpretations to consider:

The Nature of Evangelism: Evangelism can often be a daunting task, especially when it comes to conversations about sin, death, and hell. Many hesitate due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter. Combined Roles: As Paul suggests, different individuals are called to different aspects of ministry. Pastors, teachers, and other roles are also essential in the church's structure. Past Experiences: Some believers have had negative experiences in evangelism and may be wary of trying again.

Compassion and Urgency

Despite these challenges, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the call. Paul states, 'For the love of Christ compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.' – 2 Corinthians 5:14. This passage underscores the importance of spreading the message of redemption out of a sense of God's compassion and love.

Reaffirming the Biblical Call

The Bible emphasizes the importance of sharing the Good News with others. This is not just a matter of individual duty but a collective responsibility. It is important for every Christian to see themselves as part of this grand mission. Here are some practical steps to consider:

Prayer and Preparation: Seek God's guidance through prayer and prepare yourself emotionally and spiritually for such conversations. Study and Understanding: Gain a thorough understanding of the gospel message so you can articulate it clearly and confidently. Practicing Evangelism: Start with gentle conversations and gradually build up to more challenging discussions.

Ultimately, being an evangelist is a privilege and a responsibility. While not all Christians may feel called to take on an active role as an evangelist, all are invited to share the gospel message, each in their own way.