Experiencing God's Glory Through Evangelism

In a world full of questions about faith and spirituality, one profound query often stands out: "Why should we spread the gospel if God has already decided who will be saved?" In our latest podcast episode, Pastor Donnie Garrison joins us to tackle this complex topic. Our conversation offers insights that will deepen your understanding and inspire you to embrace evangelism as a joyful necessity.

Evangelism, often seen as a daunting obligation, is redefined in this episode. We delve into how it serves as a vessel for God's glory. Evangelism is not merely a task to be checked off but an opportunity to reflect God's perfection and share His love. Pastor Garrison also introduces "Chosen by Design," Pastor Harry's new book, a commentary on Ephesians, which aims to provide believers with direction and confidence in their faith journey.

We begin by exploring the importance of evangelism within the framework of God's sovereign will. Many believers struggle with the notion that if God has already predetermined who will be saved, their efforts might seem redundant. However, evangelism is more than just about conversion; it is about being vessels for God's glory. Pastor Garrison shares personal experiences and biblical truths to emphasize that success and failure in evangelism are ultimately in God's hands.

Understanding God's glory is crucial in evangelism. God's glory is the expression of His perfect holiness. It encompasses all His attributes, from love and mercy to justice and wrath. Reflecting on biblical passages, we illustrate how God's power transcends human weakness, allowing His holiness to shine through our imperfections. Evangelism is likened to the cry of a newborn—an irresistible urge to glorify God and share the joy of salvation. While human effort alone cannot persuade people to come to Christ, our role is to joyfully share the gospel with everyone, trusting God with the results.

The episode also examines the transformative power of evangelism through personal experiences. We explore how a simple act of "tasting and seeing" can open one's heart to new experiences, much like tasting delicious food for the first time. Through the story of George Mueller, we illustrate the impact of deep faith and prayer. Practical ways to incorporate evangelism into daily life are discussed, emphasizing that faith expressed through love can open doors to meaningful conversations about Jesus.

Acts of kindness play a significant role in evangelism. Small gestures, such as bringing coffee or meals to a colleague, can lead to profound spiritual connections. These simple acts can break down barriers and create opportunities for sharing faith. The inspiring story of George Mueller serves as a testament to the power of faith and prayer. His life exemplifies how persistent prayer and reliance on God can lead to incredible outcomes in evangelism.

Prayer is a cornerstone of effective evangelism. Consistent and heartfelt prayer can open doors of communication and foster opportunities to share faith effectively. Personal experiences shared in the episode illustrate the impact of praying for individuals and seeking divine guidance. For those aiming to be effective evangelists, the power of persistent and heartfelt prayer in nurturing spiritual conversations cannot be overstated.

In conclusion, evangelism is not just about obligation; it is a joyful necessity that allows us to reflect God's glory. By understanding God's sovereignty and our role as His vessels, we can embrace evangelism with joy and confidence. The transformative power of kindness and prayer in evangelism is profound, as simple acts of love can lead to significant spiritual connections. Persistent prayer is essential in opening doors and guiding us in our evangelistic efforts. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how faith, love, and prayer can pave the way for impactful evangelism, connecting us deeply with others who have experienced God's goodness.