I Am Not Ashamed of the GospelSample

Loved by God

Have you ever struggled to share the gospel? Usually, fear is the culprit—fear ofrejection by others, fear of offending them, and fear of feeling inadequate. The way you overcome these fears and share the gospel with boldness is your desire.

In Romans chapter 1, Paul describes the relationship between Rome and the gospel. Paul explains to the church in Rome that he had desired to be present with them, but circumstances had not allowed him to visit. (We know he will eventually make it to Rome, but not in the way he wanted.) In verse 7, Paul says, “To all those in Rome who are loved by God.” He reminds them that they are called to be saints. The gospel is how God’s eternal love is manifested. Our desire to share the gospel comes from God’s heart.

You deal with your fears by going to the Scriptures and hearing what they say about what you can expect as a Christian armed for suffering (2 Timothy 1:8, 2:3, 4:5–8). Evangelism is not about you. Fear of what others will think or say is about putting yourself in the center of the picture and focusing on the sense of being inadequate or rejected, appearing foolish, uninformed, or stupid. I must remember that sharing the gospel is not about me, but about Christ. I am not talking about a remarkable me ; I’m talking about a great Savior who had mercy upon me and will have mercy upon anyone who puts their faith in Him.

I’ve heard stories and numerous examples of God saving brilliant people, by this world’s estimation, through the witness of very simple people who were not powerful or noble. When we think about how the gospel has operated and how people have been born into God’s family, we learn that we must be faithful witnesses.

Whenever you share the gospel, it gives you more confidence to do it again. The more you practice sharing the gospel, the easier it becomes. Each experience allows you to tell someone about the most extraordinary person you know, the most remarkable person who exists—the Creator of the Universe, your Creator. You have the opportunity to give some small witness to Jesus Christ; that has to be your focus so that the greatness of God mortifies your pride.