Evangelistic Obligation

 As God’s people we have certain obligations such as family, work, civic, etc. We also have evangelistic obligations. And like everything else the extent of our evangelistic responsibility is determined by ability, opportunity, etc. But whatever the limits of our abilities, opportunities, etc. we need to always be keenly aware of our obligation to try to reach others with the gospel.

The apostle Paul often expressed his feeling of evangelistic responsibility. Consider these statements:

“I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.” (Romans 1:14-15)

“Yea, woe is me, if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 1:16)

“Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” (2 Corinthians 5:11)

While none of us would anticipate spreading God’s word to the extent that Paul did, nevertheless we should take seriously our obligation to do what we can.

Claude