Jack H. Williams

Many individuals are involved with the work of evangelism. There are those who travel abroad, others are involved in campaigns in the States, many write materials to be used in tracts, many distribute tracts and teach through Bible correspondence courses, others are active in teaching Bible studies in their homes — the list could go on and on. Each of these activities takes time and commitment. The question comes, “Why? Why do such people labor so actively in evangelism?” The Bible gives us many “motivations” for such labors. Let’s notice just a few of these in this brief article.

People Evangelize...Because They Love God. In Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 16:15-16, we have recorded the Christian’s “marching orders” — the great commission from our Lord and Savior Jesus to “go” and “teach.” When we look to the commands of Jesus, we have an option. We can either do them or not. But Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Thus, those who love Jesus are active in evangelistic efforts.
People Evangelize...Because They Realize the Judgment to Come. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5:10 that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” to “receive the things done...whether it be good or bad.” He further noted that “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men...” (verse 11). If we truly believe the fate of those who are still in sin on the day of judgment, we will be involved in evangelism.
People Evangelize...Because They Stand in Awe of the Love of Christ. “For the love of Christ constraineth us...” (2 Corinthians 5:14). One cannot stand at the foot of the cross and gaze upon the suffering Savior, realizing the great love for mankind that held Him there and remain uninvolved in reaching those for whom Jesus died! Such love demands action on our part.
People Evangelize...Because They Experience the Joy of Salvation. The Psalmist proclaimed, “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee” (Psalm 51:12-13) [emphasis mine -JHW].

As we realize the immeasurable blessing of being free from the guilt and penalty of sin, of having a home eternal in the heavens, we cannot but cry out the message of salvation to a lost and dying world! God’s Word is fulled with the “motivation” for one to evangelize. As one looks upon these the question soon changes from “Why do they evangelize?” to “How can I not evangelize?” What are YOU doing?