How can we ensure everyone hears the gospel message as Romans 10:14 suggests? Romans 10:14—The Call to Speak “How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach?” Why Hearing Comes First • The gospel is news; news must be heard to be believed (Romans 10:17). • Salvation hinges on personal response; hearing precedes faith, faith precedes calling. • God chose words—spoken, written, proclaimed—to reveal His plan (1 Corinthians 1:21). Personal Steps Every Believer Can Take • Share your own salvation story plainly and often (Mark 5:19). • Keep a clear, concise gospel explanation ready (1 Peter 3:15). • Pray daily for one person by name and look for natural openings to speak. • Carry Scripture portions, tracts, or a Bible app link for quick access. • Let Christlike kindness validate your words (Colossians 4:5-6). Mobilizing the Local Church • Teach evangelism regularly—model it from the pulpit (2 Timothy 4:2). • Schedule neighborhood outreaches, service projects, and gospel events. • Identify members with evangelistic gifting and let them mentor others. • Celebrate testimonies publicly; this builds courage and expectancy. Crossing Cultures and Languages • Support Bible translation efforts so every heart language receives Scripture (Revelation 7:9). • Send and sustain missionaries among unreached peoples (Acts 13:2-3). • Offer ESL classes, refugee aid, or cultural friendship programs as bridges for good news. • Respect cultural differences while presenting the unchanging message (1 Corinthians 9:22-23). Leveraging Everyday Channels • Social media: post verses, testimonies, short video explanations. • Workplace: start a voluntary Bible study or lunchtime discussion. • Community involvement: coach a team, join a club, build gospel friendships. • Hospitality: open your home; shared meals soften hearts (Luke 14:12-23). Dependence on the Spirit • Boldness and clarity come from Him (Acts 4:31). • He convicts hearts; our task is faithful proclamation (John 16:8). • Pray before, during, and after every conversation; trust His invisible work (Ephesians 6:18-20). Encouraging and Sending • Give generously to missions funds and short-term trips (Philippians 4:15-16). • Write, call, and visit missionaries to refresh their spirits (2 Timothy 1:16). • Train children and youth early—future harvesters start young (Psalm 78:4-7). Finishing with Hope • Isaiah 52:7 reminds us, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news…” • God’s promise stands: the earth “will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea” (Habakkuk 2:14). • Until that day, Romans 10:14 propels us—speak so that all may hear, believe, and call on the Name that saves. |
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