I want to continue to examine different evangelists from Scripture and how we need to be not afraid of what the world might do or respond. While there were some individuals in the Old Testament who were considered “evangelists,” the term “evangelist” did not come into play until the New Testament because the word has a Greek root to it. When it comes to the New Testament, some say that the person who was considered an evangelist was John the Baptist. He was the first to proclaim the good news of Jesus. While this was an amazing thing to read about, some say that the next evangelist was Peter. Peter was really big about sharing Jesus, especially when it came to Pentecost (Acts 2). What was interesting about Peter is that he went from denying Christ (Matthew 26:69-75, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:54-65, and John 18:25-27) to proclaiming the good news of Christ (Acts 2:1-47). He had a change in direction. How often have we been put in this same position? Maybe there was a time in our lives where we were heading in one direction and God helped us to get back on track with Him. He can help us get us back to being in a right state of mind and helping us get back closer to God. James 4:7-8 says “7. So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8. Come close to God, and God will come closer to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.”
Challenge
Think about where you stand with God. What I mean is think about how your relationship is with God. Here’s a question I want to ask you: who are you loyal to, God or the world? I ask because this is something that Christians wrestle with quite often. We want to trust God but also want to be accepted by the world. Romans 12:2 tells us to not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but rather be transformed by the renewing of your mind. I challenge you to resist the devil. Resist him and he will flee from you. Draw closer and closer to God every single day. As you draw closer towards Him, it will not only help you in your daily living but it will also help you in your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray for Your continuous strength and wisdom as we continue to do the things that You have called us to. As we grow Your Kingdom, let us not be ashamed of it. Instead, let us embrace it and let Your word shine before others so that the darkness will flee and Your light will shine through. In Jesus name I pray, amen.