Evangelism is central to the mission of spreading the Gospel. It involves sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others, urging them to follow Him. The Bible provides numerous examples of evangelism in action. These examples show how believers were called to witness and lead others to salvation.
From Jesus’ own teachings to the efforts of His disciples, evangelism played a key role in the growth of the early Church. In this article, we will explore several significant instances of evangelism in the Bible, each illustrating different aspects of spreading the Gospel.
Understanding Evangelism in the Bible
Evangelism in the Bible refers to the act of proclaiming the Gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ. It’s not just about speaking the message but living it out in a way that draws others to God. Evangelism calls for a deep commitment to share God’s love and salvation with those who have not yet heard or accepted the message.
Key scriptures help define evangelism. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. This is known as the Great Commission. It emphasizes the global mission of spreading the Gospel and the need for ongoing discipleship.
Acts 1:8 adds another crucial element to evangelism: empowerment by the Holy Spirit. Jesus tells His disciples that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them, enabling them to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This verse highlights the essential role of the Holy Spirit in equipping believers to evangelize effectively.
Evangelism is not limited to speaking but includes actions that reflect the Gospel message. It involves both proclaiming the truth and living out the teachings of Christ. The Bible repeatedly shows that evangelism is the responsibility of every believer, not just a select few. It is central to the mission of the Church, contributing to the growth of God’s Kingdom on earth.
10 Inspiring Examples of Evangelism in the Bible
#1. Jesus’ Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20)
In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives His disciples a clear command to spread the Gospel. He tells them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey His teachings. This is known as the Great Commission. Jesus emphasizes that all authority has been given to Him, which gives His command weight and importance. The Great Commission sets the foundation for the Church’s mission to reach the world. It is a call for every believer to participate in evangelism. The work of spreading the Gospel is not just for a select few, but for the entire body of Christ.
#2. The Conversion of the Samaritan Woman (John 4:1-42)
In John 4:1-42, Jesus engages a Samaritan woman at a well. He reveals Himself as the Messiah to her, leading to her conversion. After this encounter, she leaves her water jar and goes back to her town, telling others about Jesus. Her testimony leads many Samaritans to believe in Jesus. This story illustrates personal evangelism and shows that anyone, regardless of background, can share the Gospel effectively. The Samaritan woman’s willingness to speak about her encounter with Jesus led to the spread of the message, and many people came to faith as a result. This demonstrates how personal transformation can lead to the transformation of others.
#3. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)
In Acts 8:26-40, Philip is led by the Holy Spirit to meet an Ethiopian eunuch who is reading the book of Isaiah. The eunuch does not fully understand the scriptures, and Philip takes the opportunity to explain the Gospel to him. As they travel along the road, the eunuch believes in Jesus and requests to be baptized. This encounter emphasizes the importance of Scripture in evangelism and how the Holy Spirit guides believers to people in need of the Gospel. It also highlights the significance of baptism as a public declaration of faith. Philip’s obedience to the Holy Spirit’s prompting resulted in the conversion of a foreigner, showing that evangelism is meant to reach all nations.
#4. Paul’s Missionary Journeys (Acts 13-21)
Paul’s missionary journeys, described in Acts 13-21, are some of the most extensive examples of evangelism in the New Testament. Paul travels through various regions, preaching the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. He establishes churches, performs miracles, and writes letters of encouragement to strengthen the believers. Despite facing persecution, imprisonment, and opposition, Paul remains committed to spreading the message of Jesus. His journeys demonstrate the importance of perseverance in evangelism. Paul’s life is an example of how evangelism requires endurance and faith, even in the face of hardship. The churches he established laid the groundwork for the expansion of the early Church.
#5. Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41)
In Acts 2:14-41, Peter delivers a powerful sermon at Pentecost. He boldly proclaims Jesus as the Messiah, explaining how His death and resurrection fulfill Old Testament prophecies. Peter calls the crowd to repent and be baptized, and about 3,000 people respond to the message. This sermon is one of the most significant moments in the early Church, as it leads to the first mass conversion. Peter’s example of public evangelism shows the impact of preaching with clarity and conviction. His message, empowered by the Holy Spirit, results in the rapid growth of the Church. This event also marks the beginning of the apostles’ public ministry of preaching and evangelism.
#6. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7)
In Luke 15:3-7, Jesus tells the Parable of the Lost Sheep to illustrate God’s heart for the lost. A shepherd leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is lost. When he finds it, he rejoices. This parable shows the value of each individual to God. Evangelism, as demonstrated in this parable, is about seeking out those who are lost and bringing them back to God. The story emphasizes that God desires all people to be saved and that no one is too far gone to be found. It also highlights the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.
#7. Paul’s Speech to the Areopagus (Acts 17:22-34)
In Acts 17:22-34, Paul speaks to the people of Athens at the Areopagus, addressing their worship of unknown gods. He introduces them to the “unknown god” they are worshiping, revealing that it is the one true God. Paul uses their existing beliefs to connect with them and share the Gospel. His speech is a clear example of contextual evangelism. Paul adapts his message to his audience, speaking their language and using their cultural references to introduce them to Jesus. Despite some ridicule, a few people believe, showing that even when the Gospel is not fully accepted, seeds are planted.
#8. The Healing of the Demon-Possessed Man (Mark 5:1-20)
In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus heals a man possessed by many demons. After being healed, the man desires to follow Jesus. However, Jesus tells him to go home and tell his family how much God has done for him. The man obeys and spreads the news throughout the region. This account shows that evangelism can take place through personal testimony. The healed man shares his encounter with Jesus, and many others are impacted. It also highlights the power of Jesus over spiritual forces and how His actions lead to the spread of His message, even in the Gentile regions.
#9. The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)
In Acts 9:1-19, Saul, a persecutor of Christians, is converted on the road to Damascus. Jesus appears to Saul, blinding him, and asks, “Why are you persecuting me?” After three days, a disciple named Ananias heals Saul, and he is baptized. Saul’s conversion marks a dramatic change, and he becomes one of the greatest evangelists in Christian history. This story illustrates that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Saul’s transformation shows that evangelism is not just for the righteous, but for sinners, too. His life demonstrates the power of God to change even the hardest hearts.
#10. The Calling of the First Disciples (Matthew 4:18-22)
In Matthew 4:18-22, Jesus calls His first disciples, Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, along with James and John. He invites them to follow Him and become “fishers of men.” They immediately leave their boats and follow Him. This moment marks the beginning of their journey as evangelists. The calling of these first disciples shows the simplicity and urgency of evangelism. Jesus calls them to leave their old lives behind and join Him in His mission to reach the world. Their response is immediate, showing the importance of prompt obedience when called to spread the Gospel.
Closing Thoughts
Evangelism is a vital part of the Christian mission. The Bible offers numerous examples of how believers have shared the Gospel, from personal encounters to public proclamations. Each story highlights the importance of obedience, perseverance, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Whether through preaching, personal testimony, or acts of service, evangelism calls every believer to be an active participant in spreading the message of Jesus Christ. As we reflect on these examples, may we be inspired to boldly share the Gospel in our own lives, trusting that God will use our efforts to reach the lost and bring them to salvation.