And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, NKJV)
Final words are often memorable words, meaningful words to those who hear them. Have you ever had a friend tell you about a late loved one, “And the last thing he said to me was . . .” We store those words away as a precious treasure.
Mark 16 records the final words of Jesus just before His ascension into heaven. Memorable words. Meaningful words. Treasured words for anyone who loves the Lord. “Go . . . preach . . . to every creature.” It is our charge from Him. Oh, you say, but I’m not a minister. I don’t preach. Actually, the Greek word used here means to herald, proclaim, or publish. This is something we all can, and should, do. It’s also something that makes many of us nervous because we doubt our ability to explain the gospel effectively.
Orchestrated by God
One thing I’ve learned is God orchestrates meetings. I remember the evening when a friend and I were heading to dinner with her husband. The two of us had already chosen a restaurant but hadn’t really mentioned our choice to him. He got into the driver’s seat and asked, “Where are we going?” When we told him the restaurant, this usually mild-mannered man gave a non-negotiable no. He insisted on a steak place several miles away. Why was he (we thought) so contrary that evening? We didn’t know it at the time, but it was God orchestrating events so we could speak to a waitress who was away from God. At the end of the evening, I remember telling her, “We were headed somewhere else, but God sent us here for you.” Never discount God’s ability to put you in the right place at the right time to cross paths with a soul in need.
Mark 16:15 tells us the gospel is for everyone. The Lord died on the cross for everyone. No one is excluded. If we judge only by outward appearance, we may decide someone is “unsavable.” I assure you, no one is beyond God’s ability or desire to save. God doesn’t care if they are a street sweeper or CEO of a corporation. Rich, poor, or something in between—it doesn’t matter. Educated or illiterate, moral or immoral, He still loves them. They may be homeless, an addict, a drunkard, or an adulterer. God will never limit His salvation to those who meet a certain standard. It’s open to everyone.
Secret to Soulwinning
The secret to soulwinning? There isn’t one. Just be real! Show respect regardless of their circumstances. Become their friend. Respond with mercy, not condemnation. Love them even when they seem unlovable. Share your testimony. Cover them with prayer. Those simple steps of friendship and sincere concern will make an impact on someone’s life. Meet them at their point of need and allow God to do the rest.
Yes, the Lord wants the gospel to reach all the world, but our personal assignment may be down the street and around the corner. Wherever God sends us, far or near, His Spirit will provide the power to witness. Go proclaim His salvation to your world.
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, NKJV)
Lord, guide my steps today and open my eyes to needy souls around me. Help me to take advantage of every opportunity You present to reach the lost in my world.
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