Recently, I spoke to a brother in the hospital. He was there because his primary care physician told him to check himself in through the emergency room so his symptoms could be stabilized, and a specialist could see him. This brother, who made it a point to pray with his doctors and nurses, had already passed out business card-sized invitations to the local church’s services and was equipped with a few sets of Back to the Bible personal evangelism booklets, just in case people at the hospital accepted his invitation to a Bible study. This brother revealed in the conversation that his usual overnight bag consists of personal evangelism tools because, “You never know when you’ll need them to teach people the Gospel.” Here is a brother who was packed for evangelism. What a great example!
The apostle Paul stated, “I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also” (Romans 1:14-15 NKJV). Paul revealed two tremendous attitudes that are necessary for personal evangelism. First, he felt an obligation to all people (Romans 1:14). The word translated “debtor” refers to someone who is “under obligation” (ESV). Although this particular verse does not identify why Paul felt the obligation, an examination of his life suggests that at least part of it was that he himself was forgiven so great a debt of sin that he saw the need – the obligation – to let as many people know that they too could receive the same forgiveness (1 Timothy 1:12-17). Second, Paul was “ready” (NKJV) or “eager” (ESV),” which is translated from a word that refers to willingness or eagerness. It is used in only two other places, where Jesus said, “…The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41 NKJV; Mark 14:38).
When we realize the forgiveness God has given us, feel indebted to let as many people know forgiveness is also available to them. Be willing to bring that good news to others by making sure your daily lives are packed for evangelism. We never know when the opportunity will come to engage in a Bible study with someone else!
