Called to Proclaim
Sowing Seeds of Faith
Faith Without Coercion
Sharing the Authentic Jesus with a Seeking World
Evangelism Rooted in Love and Truth
Scripture: Romans 10:14-21
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14
In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he unfolds the heartbeat of evangelism, asking four key questions in Romans 10:14-15 that resonate through the ages. Each question challenges us to consider how the message of salvation reaches the world. But Paul’s message is more than a call to share the gospel—it’s an invitation to embody Christ in a way that draws people to the authentic Jesus.
What is Evangelism?
Evangelism is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, embodying God’s grace and truth to others. John Stott defines evangelism as “spreading the good news with the intention of making converts,” while Eugene Peterson describes it as “a lifelong project of listening, inviting, and loving.” Evangelism isn’t about forcing belief; it’s about living and speaking in a way that reveals Jesus authentically, relying on the Holy Spirit to draw people’s hearts.
God’s Commission to Evangelize
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gave us the Great Commission, sending us into the world to make disciples. Evangelism is an act of obedience to God’s love. William Barclay observed, “No one is truly a Christian unless they wish others to be a Christian too.” Sharing our faith is an expression of God’s heart for all people, and Paul emphasizes that sharing is essential, for “how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?”
Why So Many Jews Rejected Jesus
Paul’s pain over Israel’s unbelief runs deep. Many Jews of Paul’s day expected a messiah who would liberate them politically, not spiritually. Their misunderstanding of Jesus’ mission led to disappointment and rejection. N.T. Wright explains, “Israel was looking for a conqueror, but instead they were given a Savior.” This discrepancy reveals how expectations shape receptivity. Paul’s message is a reminder to present the authentic Jesus—a Savior who liberates from sin and calls us into a transformed life.
The Authentic Jesus to Present
To be effective witnesses, we must present the true Jesus. Philip Yancey writes, “Jesus met each person at their level of need, without trying to fit them into a mold.” The Jesus we share must be one who meets people in their struggles, loves without judgment, and offers grace and truth. The gospel isn’t a sales pitch; it’s an invitation into a relationship with a Savior who knows us deeply and loves us unconditionally.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Evangelism
Evangelism relies on the mysterious work of the Holy Spirit. We plant seeds, but only God makes them grow. Charles Spurgeon reminds us, “Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind.” When we share the gospel, the Holy Spirit stirs hearts, opens minds, and draws souls to Christ. Paul knew that while he could preach and persuade, only the Spirit could transform a heart.
Paul’s Four Questions: The Duties of Evangelism
Paul’s four questions in Romans 10:14-15 are like a road map for evangelism:
1. “How can they call on the one they have not believed in?” Evangelism calls us to make God known.
2. “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” Our mission is to share God’s Word with those who have yet to hear it.
3. “How can they hear without someone preaching to them?” We are each called to proclaim.
4. “How can anyone preach unless they are sent?” Evangelism begins with a heart obedient to God’s call.
A Call to Share the Living Word
Paul’s words remind us that our call to evangelism isn’t about perfecting a formula; it’s about presenting the Word and allowing God to work. William Barclay noted, “Christianity must always be transmitted by man to man. It’s a faith that speaks.” As we go out to share the gospel, let us trust that the power lies not in us but in the Word we carry. Whether people accept or reject, our duty is to proclaim faithfully and leave the rest to God.
“So Faith Comes from Hearing” – Romans 10:17
In Romans 10:17, Paul emphasizes that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Here, he shows us that faith is a gift sparked by the gospel. Alexander Maclaren puts it well: “The gospel is not a thing of mere words, but of power.” When we share the Word, we invite the Holy Spirit to soften hearts and create the miracle of belief.
This hearing isn’t just listening to sounds; it’s truly encountering Christ. Eugene Peterson described this hearing as “paying reverent attention to what God has done.” Through the gospel, listeners encounter the Jesus who walked among us, healed, forgave, and sacrificed Himself in love. This encounter allows faith to blossom. We can share testimonies and embody Christ’s love, but ultimately, it’s hearing God’s Word that takes root. Faith doesn’t come by our strength; it comes through “the word of Christ,” awakening belief in the heart.
Evangelism Without Coercion
Authentic evangelism respects freedom. John Bunyan captures this spirit in The Pilgrim’s Progress, where Christian’s journey unfolds with grace and conviction, but not coercion. Faith cannot be forced; it must be freely chosen. Alexander Maclaren warns, “Compulsion in religion is just as impious as indifference.” Our task is to speak truth, not to control or manipulate; the Spirit does the convincing.
The Balance: Avoiding Inactivity and Overactivity
There’s a balance in evangelism between inactivity and overactivity. Some of us hesitate to share out of fear, while others become overly zealous. Matthew Henry encourages, “Do not neglect the call of Christ to go and make disciples, but remember it is the Holy Spirit who will empower you.” God invites us to a pace that’s steady, loving, and Spirit-led, where we avoid burnout and stay sensitive to His leading.
Conclusion: Called to Be Messengers
Paul’s call to evangelize is a summons to love deeply and speak faithfully. We share not because we must, but because the love of Christ compels us. As John Stott writes, “The greatest gift we can give someone is Jesus.” May we carry the gospel with humility and boldness, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in ways we cannot see, and may we join in the Great Commission with a heart that rejoices when others come to know the Savior we cherish.
Prayer:
Lord, fill our hearts with a love for others that reflects Your love for us. Help us to be faithful messengers, sharing the truth of Jesus with humility and grace. Guide our words and actions by Your Spirit, that we may reflect the authentic Jesus and draw people closer to You. Strengthen us to share without fear, trusting that You are the one who transforms hearts.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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