Tag Archives: evangelist

The Joy of Evangelism: Spreading the Gospel

The Call to Evangelism
The pursuit of spreading the Gospel is described as both a sacred duty and a profound joy, akin to “eating angels’ bread.” Evangelists like D.L. Moody undertook significant campaigns, driven by their conviction in the power of Christ to transform lives. Venues such as the Tolbooth Parish Church and the Free High Church became sanctuaries for anxious inquirers seeking reconciliation and peace. Moody’s passion for evangelism was evident in his tireless efforts, even in the face of significant financial and logistical challenges. The daily expenditures for halls, advertising, and personnel often reached $800, but these obstacles only fueled his determination.

The work of evangelism was marked by moments of divine intervention and human perseverance. Stories of transformed lives underscored the impact of the Gospel. For example, one man entered an inquiry room in despair but left renewed, his life forever changed. The urgency of the message was evident in Moody’s call for believers to align themselves with Christ and surrender fully to His will. Amid this, spiritual warfare was palpable, as many believers faced intense personal battles. However, these struggles often led to deeper encounters with God, revealing His power and presence in profound ways.

Spiritual Battles and the Church’s Role
The journey of faith is portrayed as a battleground where believers must contend with darkness and adversity. Many experienced relentless challenges, yet these trials became opportunities for divine deliverance. The message of hope resonated strongly, particularly among women, who faced identity struggles but emerged victorious through God’s power. This period was described as a “day of deliverance,” where believers found new strength to overcome their obstacles.

Churches played a pivotal role as gathering places for spiritual renewal and community. Moody’s ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds, including ministers, students, and laypeople, highlighted the church’s universal mission. Despite its imperfections, the church was seen as a beacon of hope and a vessel for God’s work. The inclusion of new believers was essential, emphasizing the importance of accepting Christ for who He truly is.

Glory and Mission
The ultimate goal of evangelism and spiritual growth is to glorify God. Believers are called to reflect His glory in their lives, embodying His love and truth. This call extends to all aspects of life, urging Christians to live in surrender and obedience. Moody’s ministry demonstrated that genuine faith transcends tradition, focusing instead on a personal relationship with Christ.

The church’s mission is to proclaim the Gospel and prepare for Christ’s return. Believers are reminded of their heavenly citizenship, symbolized by the white stone with a new name (Revelation 2:17). This identity shapes their purpose, encouraging them to live boldly and share their faith. The message of hope, renewal, and mission continues to inspire, reminding all that the greatest days of God’s glory are yet to come.

Evangelists From the Past

Chapter 1: Rooted in the Word, Guided by Conviction

The modern-day Christian is not defined by the times they live in but by the timeless truths they cling to. Like D.L. Moody, who preached with simplicity and power, they speak with conviction because they believe the Word of God is alive and active. Moody had no room for pretense—his life was centered on the gospel, delivered in words anyone could understand.

Today’s Christian follows this example. They are not swayed by cultural trends or public opinion but stand firm on the promises of God. Their strength comes from being deeply rooted in Scripture, as Charles Spurgeon once encouraged: “Visit many good books, but live in the Bible.” Like these past heroes of faith, modern believers meditate on the Word, allowing it to transform their hearts and direct their steps.

They know that faith is not just a belief but an action. They live out the gospel in their daily lives, bringing hope and healing to their communities. Whether it’s through sharing a meal, offering a kind word, or boldly proclaiming the love of Christ, they reflect the humility and sincerity of those who came before them.

Chapter 2: Faith That Endures the Fire

The modern-day Christian faces trials, just as those who walked before them did. They take inspiration from heroes like Esther, who stood in courage “for such a time as this,” and Corrie ten Boom, who clung to faith even in the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp.

These believers understand that adversity is not a sign of God’s absence but an opportunity for His power to be revealed. When life becomes a storm, they anchor themselves in the promise that God works all things together for good. They embrace the refining fire, knowing that it shapes them into vessels of His glory.

Like Job, who declared, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him,” they hold on to faith when answers seem far away. Their prayers echo the words of Hannah, whose cries to God brought forth a miracle. Modern Christians are marked by resilience—a quiet strength that comes from knowing they are never alone.

This faith is not passive. They meet challenges head-on, trusting that God equips them for every battle. They walk with the confidence of those who have seen His hand at work and believe He will do it again.

Chapter 3: Called to Action, United in Purpose

Modern Christians understand that their faith cannot be confined to pews or private moments. Like William Wilberforce, who fought tirelessly to end slavery, or Catherine Booth, who co-founded the Salvation Army, they see their calling as a mission to transform the world around them.

Their faith is active, not stagnant. They step into the needs of their communities, just as George Müller did when he cared for thousands of orphans through prayer and trust in God’s provision. They are not afraid to dream big because they serve a God who is able to do immeasurably more than they could ask or imagine.

Collaboration is key. Just as the early church in Acts came together to share resources and spread the gospel, modern Christians recognize the power of unity. They partner with others, crossing denominational and cultural lines to fulfill the Great Commission.

They don’t wait for perfect circumstances. Instead, they echo the words of John Wesley: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”

Chapter 4: A Life Marked by Miracles

The modern-day Christian believes in a God who still performs miracles. They’ve seen His power in stories from the past—Hudson Taylor trusting God for provision on the mission field, or Smith Wigglesworth witnessing healings through simple prayers of faith.

These believers know that miracles are not relics of a bygone era but evidence of a living God who moves today. They pray with expectation, understanding that the same Spirit who raised Christ from the dead lives in them. They share testimonies of breakthrough, healing, and restoration, inspiring others to believe that God is still at work.

Like the persistent widow in Luke 18, they are not discouraged by delays. They press on, knowing that their prayers are heard. Their lives are marked by bold faith, the kind that moves mountains and brings heaven to earth.

Yet, they are careful to point all glory to God. They know that the miracles they witness are not about them but about the One who works through them. “Not to us, Lord, not to us,” they say, “but to Your name be the glory.”

Chapter 5: Living for Eternity, Shining as Lights

The modern-day Christian lives with eternity in view. Like Paul, they press on toward the goal, knowing that their reward is not in earthly accolades but in hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

They are torchbearers, carrying the light of Christ into a dark world. Their lives echo the example of Amy Carmichael, who gave up comfort to rescue children in India, or Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who stood for truth in the face of tyranny. These believers know the cost of following Jesus and embrace it willingly.

Their legacy is not measured by worldly standards but by the lives they impact. They are mentors, encouragers, and friends. They pour into the next generation, knowing that the gospel must continue to shine long after they are gone.

Their message is simple yet profound: “Jesus loves you, and His plans for you are good.” In their words, actions, and hearts, they reflect the love of a Savior who gave everything so that we might live.

This is what the modern-day Christian looks like—a life fully surrendered to Christ, walking in faith, and leaving a legacy that points to Him.

Prayer for Sedona Arizona

Reaching Out

The group gathered in downtown Sedona. Tourists wandered the streets, browsing shops and snapping pictures of the towering red rocks. Julie gave clear instructions.

“Be friendly. Listen more than you talk. Ask if they’d like prayer. If they say no, bless them anyway. If they say yes, pray with confidence.”

The team split into pairs and spread out. Julie walked with a young man named Ethan. He looked nervous.

“You’ll do fine,” Julie assured him. “Just love people.”

They approached a woman sitting on a bench. Her ankle was wrapped in a brace. Julie smiled warmly. “Hi, I’m Julie, and this is Ethan. We’re from a local church, and we’re offering prayer for healing. Would you like prayer?”

The woman hesitated. “Why not?” she said with a shrug.

Julie knelt and gently placed a hand on the woman’s ankle. “Father, thank You for Your love. I ask that You heal this ankle completely. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

The woman moved her foot cautiously, then stood. Her eyes widened. “The pain’s gone! It’s been weeks, and now it’s just… gone!”

Ethan’s face lit up. “Wow!”

They continued down the street, praying for others. Some declined, but many accepted. A man with a headache felt it disappear. A teenager with a sprained wrist started moving it freely.

The group returned to the church as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Sharing and Healing

Back at the church, the group buzzed with excitement. Julie stood at the front, smiling.

“You did it,” she said. “You stepped out in faith, and God showed up.”

She shared a story from years ago. “I prayed for a woman named Maria. She’d been blind in one eye since birth. I felt so unworthy, but I prayed anyway. As I said ‘amen,’ Maria gasped. She could see for the first time.”

Julie’s voice softened. “It’s not about us. It’s about Him. We just say yes.”

She looked at the group. “Now, let’s pray for one another. If you need healing, stand up.”

About half the room rose. Julie walked among them, laying hands on shoulders, speaking words of faith. A man with back pain bent and touched his toes, grinning. A woman with migraines felt relief wash over her.

The room filled with praise and thanksgiving. Julie stepped back, letting the group minister to each other.

As the night ended, Julie’s voice rang clear. “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Keep believing. Keep praying. And keep loving.”