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
Matthew 28:19 NIV
After we are born again and we are growing, God calls us into the ministry of reconciliation. Therefore, evangelism becomes more than a Christian activity: it becomes our life’s purpose. We are now witnesses who invite people to leave darkness and embrace the marvellous light of God. However, beyond simply declaring the gospel, we must consider what kind of witnesses we are. This brings us to an important reflection: evangelism must align with the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Hence, these qualities should shape our posture, our tone, our attitude, and our overall approach to soul-winning.
Firstly, God calls us to be loving witnesses. Love drives us to intercede for souls, and love compels us to speak to them because we desire their reconciliation with the Father. When the love of God flows within us, we speak with compassion rather than judgement. Consequently, our words become seeds, and our approach becomes attractive because the message is rooted in genuine concern rather than pressure.
Secondly, God calls us to be joyful witnesses. When we step out to speak to people, we must do so with joy in our hearts, because we are carrying out the Father’s business. Our countenance should not reflect pressure, stress, pride, or irritation. Instead, a radiant face, a sincere smile, and a joyful heart will communicate that we truly believe the message we carry. So, regardless of how someone responds, we do not take offence because we are strengthened by the joy of the Lord.
Furthermore, He calls us to be peaceful witnesses. People should experience calmness and peace around us, not chaos or aggression. Peace is the essence of the gospel message, because we’re called to be peacemakers between God and humanity. Therefore, our behaviour and atmosphere should reveal the peace of Christ. People should know us as carriers of divine peace.
In addition to these, other aspects of the fruit of the Spirit must also guide our evangelism. For example, do we persevere when people reject the message? Do we remain patient when we encounter difficult personalities? Are we gentle when we present the gospel? Do we speak with faith and confidence rather than fear and uncertainty? These questions serve as honest heart-checks for every believer.
Therefore, it is not enough to say the right words. The message must agree with the life behind it. Evangelism is more than handing out tracts or quoting verses. It is a witness that speaks through posture, spirit, and character. Thus, the fruit of the Spirit must not remain an internal theory; it must appear externally through our conduct.
To sum up, God desires witnesses whose lives reflect the fruit of the Spirit. When we evangelise with joy, love, peace, patience, gentleness, and faith, the message of Christ becomes both believable and beautiful. Ultimately, evangelism is not only what we say, it is who we are while saying it.
Living It Out
Ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate His fruit within you daily. Before you share the gospel, pause and pray for love, joy, peace, and gentleness to fill your heart. Let your words be guided by compassion, your tone by peace, and your attitude by grace. Remember, people may forget your words, but they will never forget the spirit behind them.
Let your life be the message that draws others to Christ.