Jesus’ Evangelism Plan
What was Jesus’ strategy to win the lost? What was His plan of evangelism? In Matthew 10:1-15 we see the Lord’s fourfold plan to spread the gospel message to the whole world
through His disciples. First, He called them to be prepared—“And he called to him his twelve disciples.” (v. 1) He spent time with them so they could learn His heart, and learn His plan. He equipped them for their task: power to cast out evil spirits, to heal sickness and disease. Second, He gave them a message to share—“Proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” (v. 7) If a person doesn’t see he is lost, the gospel doesn’t make sense. Jesus gave instructions on who to share the message with, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” (vv. 5-6) Jesus did not forbid them to share with Gentiles or Samaritans, if they encountered them on their way. Just don’t go looking for them. Jesus narrowed His priority to the Jews. Third, He sent them into the world—“Whatever town or village you enter.” (v. 11) Jesus sent them, and He sends us today. Very few will just show up to hear. “How are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14-15) Fourth, He told them how to handle the response—“If anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.” (v. 14) Jesus provided a model for outreach: graciously greet the people but don’t waste your time on those who reject the message. There is no biblical basis for continuing to visit those who reject you. Don’t worry about those who won’t listen. God may one day give another opportunity. But don’t waste the Lord’s time! Let Him worry about who responds and rejects—you move to the next person.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.