The Biblical Pattern for Evangelism
Both John the Baptist and Jesus began their ministries with the same urgent call: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2; 4:17). True evangelism must start where Scripture starts—with the sobering reality of sin and the necessity of repentance.
1. The Call to Repentance
Biblical repentance involves:
- Conviction of Sin: Recognizing our guilt before God (Psalm 51:4)
- Godly Sorrow: Deep regret leading to change (2 Corinthians 7:10)
- Turning to God: A decisive shift from sin to Christ (Acts 26:20)
2. The Bad News: Man’s Sin and God’s Wrath
Before presenting the gospel, we must confront the reality of:
- Separation from God: Sin creates a chasm (Isaiah 59:2)
- God’s Holiness: He is perfectly pure (Isaiah 6:3)
- Divine Judgment: “The wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness” (Romans 1:18)
- Man’s Helplessness: No one can save themselves (Romans 3:10-12)
3. The Good News: Salvation in Christ
Only after understanding judgment can grace be truly appreciated:
- Christ’s Substitution: “He became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21)
- Grace Alone: “By grace you have been saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- New Creation: “The old has gone, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- Eternal Hope: “Whoever believes in Him shall not perish” (John 3:16)
4. Practical Steps for Biblical Witnessing
Effective evangelism requires:
- Prayer: For the Spirit’s guidance and open doors (Colossians 4:3-4)
- Clarity: Presenting both judgment and grace (Acts 24:25)
- Compassion: Speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)
- Urgency: “Today is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2)
The Full Gospel Message
We must never shrink from declaring both God’s wrath against sin and His merciful offer of salvation. Only when sinners grasp their desperate condition will they see their need for a Savior. This is the message that transforms hearts—the bad news that makes the good news truly glorious.
