The Theology Of Evangelism: Introduction And Biblical Principles Of Evangelism -- By: John C. Beck, Jr.

Journal: Chafer Theological Seminary Journal
Volume: CTSJ 04:4 (Oct 1998)
Article: The Theology Of Evangelism: Introduction And Biblical Principles Of Evangelism
Author: John C. Beck, Jr.


The Theology Of Evangelism:
Introduction And Biblical Principles Of Evangelism1

John C. Beck, Jr.*

[*Editor's note: John Beck earned his B.A. at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), Th.M. at Dallas Theological Seminary, and his D.Min. at Western Seminary. Dr. Beck is the director of Discovery Ministries, which offers seminars that help to equip churches to “do the work of evangelism.” His office number is 310–829-4355. John teaches Systematic Theology at CTS, has been an interim pastor, and frequently does pulpit supply.]

Introduction

… He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11–12).

When it comes to telling others about Jesus Christ, many Christians have had an experience similar to that of the following businessman.

I would cross the street to avoid meeting someone who might ask me a question about my faith in Jesus Christ. If people started to talk about religion, I did everything I could to change the subject, because I was afraid they were going to ask me a question that I could not answer. Over the years I learned to sidestep witnessing situations because I knew that I was not prepared.

The ministry of evangelism takes on special interest when each Christian considers what would have happened to him if someone had not told him about Christ. This realization should increase one s awareness of the plight of those around him who still do not know the Savior. Even when motivated, Christians are not always successful in their efforts to reach the lost. This lack of success can be traced to fear and lack of information. Lack of success can convince even the most optimistic Christian that evangelism should be left to the professionals.

The businessman, mentioned above, achieved success in the business world by applying diligence and preparation to his job. Time was invested in learning the answers to the possible questions, that a potential client might ask. This man s problem in the area of witnessing was quite simple. Knowing he was unprepared, he avoided the embarrassment that lack of preparation would bring. To emphasize the importance of preparation, six months after this businessman began evangelism training, he saw two business associates and one relative place their trust in Jesus Christ.

The Theology of Evangelism

When Lewis Sperry Chafer defined “systematic theology” he s...

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