The concept of witnessing to outsiders is a significant theme in the Bible, emphasizing the call for believers to share their faith with those who are not part of the Christian community. This practice is rooted in the Great Commission and is evident throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for witnessing to outsiders through the example of Israel as a light to the nations. Isaiah 49:6 states, "I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth." This verse highlights God's intention for Israel to be a beacon of His truth and salvation to all peoples, not just the Jewish nation.

The account of Jonah further illustrates this concept. Jonah was called to preach repentance to the city of Nineveh, a non-Israelite city, demonstrating God's concern for all humanity. Jonah 3:2 records God's command: "Arise, go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message that I give you."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the call to witness to outsiders is explicitly commanded by Jesus Christ. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 instructs, "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." This directive underscores the universal scope of the gospel message.

The Book of Acts provides numerous examples of the early church's commitment to witnessing to outsiders. Acts 1:8 records Jesus' words to His disciples: "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 apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, spread the gospel beyond Jewish communities to Gentiles, as seen in the ministry of Paul and others.

Paul's Example

The Apostle Paul is a prominent figure in the New Testament who exemplifies witnessing to outsiders. His missionary journeys, as recorded in the Book of Acts, demonstrate his dedication to preaching the gospel to Gentiles. In Romans 15:20 , Paul expresses his ambition: "It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation."

Paul's approach to witnessing is further articulated in 1 Corinthians 9:22 : "To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might save some." This passage highlights Paul's adaptability and commitment to reaching people from diverse backgrounds.

Practical Aspects of Witnessing

The New Testament provides practical guidance for believers in their witness to outsiders. Colossians 4:5-6 advises, "Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This instruction emphasizes the importance of wisdom, grace, and readiness in interactions with non-believers.

1 Peter 3:15 further encourages believers to be prepared to share their faith: "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect." This verse underscores the need for a respectful and thoughtful approach to witnessing.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate to witness to outsiders is a call for believers to actively share the message of salvation with all people, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. Through the examples of Israel, the early church, and the Apostle Paul, Scripture provides a model for engaging with the world in a manner that reflects the love and truth of the gospel.