Because we believe that God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4) and that ” in love He predestined us for adoption as sons through Christ Jesus, according to the purpose of His will” (Ephesians 1:5) and salvation “depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy,” (Romans 9:16), we can conclude that there is no real point in evangelizing. Right?
Wrong.
However, this seems to be a common criticism of the so-called “reformed” or “Calvinist” position on election. If evangelizing means bringing the gospel to the world around us, and God has already made the decision as to who will be saved, why are we taking the time to evangelize? This question, at its root, exemplifies the folly of trusting in the reason and logic of carnal man rather than the Word of God. Here are five reasons why evangelism is a necessary part of the human experience.
1. Evangelism is Obedience to God
Jesus’ words in Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” We question not what our master has asked of us. In humble and joyous obedience we go.
2. It is Not Known Who is to be Saved
God knows all who are His children. We do not. When we evangelize, we do so to all, understanding that God will take care of the rest. Calvin explains: “Since we do not know who belongs to the number of the predestined and who does not, it befits us so to feel as to wish that all be saved.”
3. Evangelism Creates a Unique Opportunity to Connect with God
By evangelism, we are able to both serve God and engage with God in ways which we otherwise would be not able to. On the mission field, which is everywhere, we are required to have knowledge of the Scripture, and be ready to make a defense. We must always be equipped and we must always be like minded with the Holy Spirit. Evangelism creates a constant pressure to keep up this Bible-saturated lifestyle. Further, given that Christ has called us to a life of suffering for his namesake, the call to evangelism creates a bigger opportunity to experience this suffering. It becomes the fire by which the gold’s validity is proven.
4. It is a Natural Response to the Joy We Have in God
The salvation that we have been gifted with, is the most joy-producing gift that could have ever be of been given. With the power and might of the Holy Spirit working in us, is it a natural outflow of this exciting “good news” that urges us to share with all we come into contact with, that the Kingdom of the Lord is at hand!
5. God Has Declared His Disciples as the Means to Transport the Gospel Message
This one is the most important. God has predetermined who would be elected. But he has also predetermined the means to accomplish this end. That means is evangelism. ”And how are they to hear without someone preaching?,” asks Paul in Romans 10:14. Therefore, given that his disciples are the means to transport the gospel, we must evangelize.
There are probably many more reasons that one could give. But these were the most influential for me. We do serve an incredibly sovereign God. And because of this, my confidence in evangelism and in sharing the gospel is that he has everything in His control. I don’t have to worry about saying the right words to being sly enough with my logic. If the Holy Spirit can speak through Moses, He can speak through me. My job is to be faithful, not successful.
God will take care of the rest. According to His own plans and His own divine will.
