What does "every tongue confess" imply about our role in evangelism? “and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” The Coming Reality: Universal Confession - Scripture states it plainly and literally: every single tongue will one day acknowledge Jesus as Lord. - This is not wishful thinking; it is God’s guaranteed future. - The certainty of that future shapes how we live and speak today. Why Our Evangelism Matters - God has decreed a universal confession, yet He chooses to use human witnesses (Acts 1:8). - Evangelism isn’t about making something happen that might fail; it’s aligning with what God has already promised will happen. - Romans 10:14–15 reminds us: “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard?” Implication 1: Urgency—Confess Now or Later - Every person will confess, but timing matters. - Voluntary confession in this age brings salvation (Romans 10:9). - Forced confession at judgment brings condemnation (Revelation 20:11–15). - Our proclamation gives people the gracious opportunity to confess joyfully now. Implication 2: Global Scope—No People Group Excluded - “Every tongue” signals languages, cultures, and nations (Revelation 7:9). - We pursue missions that cross ethnic, linguistic, and social barriers. - Local outreach and global sending both answer the same mandate. Implication 3: Christ-Centered Message - The content of confession is clear: “Jesus Christ is Lord.” - Evangelism must spotlight His person and work—not moralism, activism, or self-help tips. - 2 Corinthians 4:5: “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.” Implication 4: Confident Dependence - God’s promise underwrites our witness; success doesn’t hinge on our eloquence (1 Corinthians 2:1–5). - Knowing the outcome empowers courage, prayer, and perseverance when responses seem slow. - Matthew 28:18–20 pairs Christ’s universal authority with His presence—our confidence in the field. Practical Takeaways - Pray daily for one unreached person or people group. - Speak the gospel plainly: who Jesus is, what He did, why it matters. - Support translation work so “every tongue” can read and hear Scripture in its own language. - Engage locally—neighbors, coworkers, classmates—believing each confession aligns with God’s eternal plan. |
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