What are some examples of evangelism in the Bible?

Evangelism, the act of sharing the message of God’s salvation and inviting others to faith, is a central theme throughout the Bible. From the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament apostles, the Scriptures are filled with stories of individuals and communities boldly proclaiming God’s truth. Let’s explore some significant examples of evangelism found in the Bible and what they teach us about sharing our faith today.

The Prophets: Heralds of God’s Message

Long before the term “evangelism” was coined, the Old Testament prophets served as God’s messengers. Figures like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Jonah were called to deliver God’s word to people who had strayed from His ways. For example, Jonah was commanded to go to the city of Nineveh and call its people to repentance (Jonah 3:1-10). Despite his initial reluctance, Jonah’s message led to a city-wide turning toward God. Similarly, Isaiah’s prophecies often urged the people of Israel to return to God and obey His commands, demonstrating the importance of speaking truth even in challenging circumstances.

Jesus Christ: The Ultimate Evangelist

Jesus’ entire ministry was rooted in evangelism. He traveled from town to town, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:14-15). Jesus engaged with diverse groups—Jews and Gentiles, the marginalized, and the powerful. One notable example is His conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-42). Jesus broke social barriers, shared the message of living water, and as a result, many Samaritans believed in Him. Jesus’ method of personal, relational evangelism set a model for His followers.

The Twelve Apostles: Taking the Message Further

After Jesus’ resurrection, His disciples continued the work of evangelism. In Acts 2, Peter stands up during Pentecost and boldly preaches to a crowd, resulting in about 3,000 people coming to faith that day. The apostles traveled widely, performing miracles, teaching, and forming new communities of believers. Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-39) is a powerful illustration: Philip explains the Scriptures and baptizes the eunuch, who then continues on his way rejoicing. These stories show how the early church prioritized spreading the gospel beyond their own cultural boundaries.

Paul: Evangelism Across the Nations

Perhaps the most prolific evangelist in the New Testament is the Apostle Paul. Once a persecutor of Christians, Paul’s dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) transformed him into a tireless advocate for the gospel. He undertook three major missionary journeys, preaching in synagogues, marketplaces, and homes across the Roman Empire. Paul’s approach was adaptable; he engaged with Greek philosophers in Athens (Acts 17:16-34) and wrote letters to encourage and instruct early Christian communities. His life exemplifies a commitment to reaching “all nations” with the message of Christ.

Everyday Evangelists: Ordinary Believers

Evangelism in the Bible isn’t limited to prophets and apostles. Acts 8:4 describes how, after the persecution of the early church in Jerusalem, “those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Ordinary believers, not just church leaders, shared their faith in daily life. The story of Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:24-26), a husband and wife who explained the gospel more accurately to Apollos, shows the impact of laypeople in evangelism.

Conclusion: Lessons for Today

These examples remind us that evangelism is not reserved for a select few but is a calling for all believers. Whether through words or actions, every Christian is invited to participate in God’s mission of sharing hope with the world.