All Authority

Author: Duncan Bell

As soon as a person begins to pursue Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, it is inevitable that one comes to a crossroad. The Great Commission, the popular name for this portion of Scripture, compels the reader to either act or rebel from this clear instruction. Matthew 28:16-20 is where this popular portion of Scripture is located, but the commission can also be found in Mark 16:14-18, Luke 24:44-49, Acts 1:4-8, and John 20:19-23. Matthew 28:19 states, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” This is the definition of evangelism.

A few notes on this Scripture follow. First, this Scripture is still relevant today because the goal of all nations has not yet been achieved. Next, the Scripture is written to all people who follow Jesus as Lord and Saviour, regardless of profession. Recall, the original disciples were not educated in terms of academics. Lastly, there are several actions, specifically mentioned. “Go”, “make”, “baptize”, and “teach” are the actions mentioned in the commission. However, as will be discussed in a later article (a must-read), there are no specifics given as to how that action will look.

The question that begs to be asked is, "what is it specifically that we must share with all the nations?" The Gospel? What is that even? When I was a new, fresh, young Christian I thought evangelism would be easy, that I would just tell people that Jesus loves them. Then miraculously they would understand that and be saved. I learned many things very quickly about the failings that approach would bring. However, in essence, evangelism is exactly that simple. But with all human activities and skills, it is something that a person can improve on and become better at.

The Gospel is as simple as covering the following topics. First, that all mankind has been tainted by sin through the first act of sin committed by Adam in the Garden of Eden (see Johan's previous article on The Work of Christ). Then, Jesus, who is fully God (see Stéphan's previous article on The Incarnation), died and suffered on the cross to pardon us from the consequences of sin. Lastly, that Jesus rose to the right hand of the Father, sending us the Holy Spirit, so that He (Jesus) can intercede for us while we accomplish His will here on earth. All of this then brings every person to a point of decision: “Do you believe Jesus?” or “Do you reject Him?”

In conclusion, this is a simple overview of the basics of the doctrine of evangelism. In the coming articles, I will be discussing the roles of preaching and missions in evangelism, the impact culture has on evangelism (keeping it proudly South African), and lastly the different strategies and methods that one can use in evangelism (this one could be a great debate – if you’re up for it). So I end with this question, “What forms of evangelism do you find helpful and what forms of evangelism do you find offensive?”