What does Jesus' instruction to "go and tell" teach about evangelism? Key verse: Mark 5:19 “ ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you.’ ” What “go and tell” reveals about evangelism • A direct command, not a suggestion—Jesus expects obedience. • Movement is required: we leave comfort zones and approach others. • Verbal proclamation is essential—faith comes “by hearing” (Romans 10:17). • The focus is the Lord’s work and mercy, never self-promotion. • The commission is immediate; delay is disobedience (cf. Matthew 28:7,10). The content we share • “How much the Lord has done for you” → His power, provision, and rescue. • “And how He has had mercy on you” → the gospel of grace, not human merit. • Personal testimony validated by Scripture (1 Peter 2:9; Psalm 66:16). • The death and resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The starting audience • “Your own people” = family, friends, neighbors—those who know your story. • Evangelism begins locally, then widens (Acts 1:8). • Familiar relationships provide credibility for the changed life they see. The tone and manner • Mercy leads the message—compassion over condemnation (Colossians 4:6). • Courage replaces fear: “Do not be afraid. Go and tell…” (Matthew 28:10). • Clarity: simple, understandable words about God’s deeds. Expected outcomes • Wonder and amazement: “And everyone marveled” (Mark 5:20). • Spread of the gospel beyond our reach—one faithful witness influences many (John 4:39). • Glory to God, not to the messenger (2 Corinthians 4:5). Practical takeaways • Identify the specific people in your “home” sphere who need to hear. • Write down concrete ways the Lord has shown mercy to you. • Share one of those mercies verbally this week. • Trust the Spirit to use your story; results belong to Him (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). |
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