The Book of Acts contains our best examples of biblical evangelism. It starts in Acts 2, where a large crowd was drawn by the activity of the Holy Spirit and Peter took the opportunity to tell them about Christ. And throughout the book we read that the apostles were accompanied by signs and miracles (the work of the Spirit) and that people listened to them because of this. The Spirit is still at work today, though the signs and miracles are less flashy today. Don’t get me wrong; I believe there is still supernatural physical healing. But I believe that we can see the Spirit at work everyday in the casting out of the demons of addiction or in the healing of a broken person. And those outside the Body of Christ do pay attention when they see these kinds of miracles – it is up to us to make the most of the opportunity to tell people the Gospel of Christ.
There are 2 examples of evangelism in the Book of Acts that have always stood out to me. Both involve less supernatural circumstances but definitely involved a believer making the most of an opportunity to speak.
In Acts 17:16-34. we read of Paul’s speech in the Aeropagus. This speech is a great example of apologetics and an inspiration for many of us who would share Christ with those of other faiths. But first Paul had to be given the opportunity to speak. How did he gain this? First, he saw the situation in Athens. The people were worshipping a large number of idols and Paul’s spirit, who we can assume was in tune with the Holy Spirit, was provoked. In other words, Paul was responding to the Spirit’s promptings.Second, he talked with the people around him. The bible doesn’t tell us how long Paul spent talking with the people in the marketplace before being given the opportunity to speak in the Aeroagus, but I imagine it was weeks, if not months. It is obvious that not only was he telling people about Christ, he was also listening and learning about what they believed as well – he will use their own beliefs as his starting point for his sermon.Third, Paul is respectful towards those he was talking to. He was respectful enough that they invited him to the Aeropagus so they could hear him speak more. Paul continues to show respect when he addresses the Aeropagus. Instead of condemning them for false beliefs, he makes the observation that they are indeed very religious. And then he goes on from there to tell them of the unknown God that many are already worshipping.So we can learn 3 things from Paul on making the most – 1) Let the Spirit guide you; 2) Sometimes evangelism takes time and effort; 3) Treat others with respect.The bible tells us (vv. 32, 34) that there 3 different reactions to Paul’s presentation of the Gospel. Some scoffed, some wanted to know more, and some became believers.
In Acts 8:25-40, we read of the Ethiopian eunuch and Philip’s discussion with him. The situation begins quite differently here – the Spirit doesn’t just prompt Philip but gives him direct instructions. The similarity with Paul at the Aeropagus lies in the fact the Spirit was at work behind the scenes; neither the Athenians or the eunuch see the Spirit at work except through their interactions with believers.The situation continues quite differently as well. While Paul had weeks or months to talk, learn, and lay a groundwork, Philip has to act instantly. The Spirit tells him “Go talk to him, now!”But Philip was ready. He made the most of this chance by asking the eunuch if he understood what he was reading. Though we only have a short description of the interaction between Philip and the eunuch, it is obvious that Philip was (like Paul) treating the eunuch with respect. The eunuch was a powerful man, yet he invited Philip to come join him and talk to him more. And later, the eunuch believes in the Gospel and becomes a follower of Christ.So the three things we learn from Philip – 1) Let the Spirit guide you; 2) Sometimes evangelism requires instant action; 3) Treat others with respect.
(original post at: http://jimmie.compassionatechristianity.org/?p=24)
