Evangelism, the act of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, is a central tenet of the Christian faith. The motivation for evangelism is deeply rooted in Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, as well as the example set by the early church. This entry explores the biblical foundations and theological motivations that compel Christians to engage in evangelism.

The Great Commission

The primary motivation for evangelism is the Great Commission, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus commands His disciples, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). This directive is not merely a suggestion but a command that underscores the responsibility of believers to spread the Gospel.

Love for God and Neighbor

Another significant motivation is the love for God and others. Jesus summarized the law with two commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39). Evangelism is an expression of love for God, as it seeks to glorify Him by making His name known. It is also an act of love toward others, as it offers them the hope and salvation found in Christ.

The Example of Christ

Jesus Himself set the example for evangelism. He declared His mission in Luke 19:10, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost" . Throughout His ministry, Jesus reached out to the marginalized, taught the multitudes, and called individuals to repentance and faith. His life and mission provide a model for believers to follow.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in motivating and empowering believers for evangelism. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" . The Spirit equips and emboldens Christians to share the Gospel, often providing the words and opportunities needed to witness effectively.

The Urgency of the Gospel

The urgency of the Gospel message is another driving force behind evangelism. Scripture teaches that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). The reality of eternal separation from God for those who do not believe compels Christians to share the message of salvation with urgency and compassion.

The Joy of Salvation

The joy and gratitude that come from experiencing personal salvation also motivate believers to evangelize. The psalmist declares, "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit" (Psalm 51:12). This joy naturally overflows into a desire to see others experience the same transformation and relationship with God.

The Growth of the Church

Evangelism is essential for the growth and edification of the Church. The early church in Acts grew as a result of the apostles' preaching and the believers' witness. Acts 2:47 notes, "And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved" . The expansion of the Church through evangelism fulfills God's plan for His people to be a light to the nations.

Eternal Rewards

Scripture also speaks of eternal rewards for those who faithfully proclaim the Gospel. In 1 Corinthians 3:8, Paul writes, "The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor" . The promise of heavenly rewards serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their evangelistic efforts.

In summary, the motivation for evangelism is multifaceted, encompassing obedience to Christ's command, love for God and neighbor, the example of Jesus, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, the urgency of the Gospel, the joy of salvation, the growth of the Church, and the promise of eternal rewards. These motivations drive Christians to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world.