Evangelism Leads to Discipleship

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us, "Go therefore and  make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
 
The Great Commission is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine mandate given to every believer. It is the heartbeat of our faith and the purpose for which we are called. Yet, too often, we view evangelism and discipleship as separate endeavors when, in reality, they are deeply interconnected. Evangelism is not just about sharing the Gospel; it is the starting line for discipleship.
 
When we understand evangelism in this light, it transforms our approach to sharing the Good News. We no longer see it as a one-time event but as the beginning of a lifelong journey of discipleship. Just as a seed planted in fertile soil grows into a mighty tree, so too does the Gospel, when sown in the hearts of men, bear fruit that multiplies and sustains.
 
As followers of Christ, we are called to be fishers of men, casting our nets wide to draw others into the kingdom of God. But our responsibility does not end there. We are also called to nurture and disciple those who respond to the Gospel, guiding them in their walk with the Lord and equipping them to do the same for others.


Think of evangelism as the spark that ignites the flame of faith in someone's heart. But like any flame, it needs to be fed and tended to grow into a roaring fire. That is where discipleship comes in. It is the process of fanning that flame, providing the spiritual nourishment and guidance needed for it to burn brightly.
 
At FBC Kenova, let us commit ourselves anew to the Great Commission, embracing evangelism as the starting line for discipleship. Let us be intentional about sharing the Gospel with those around us, knowing that each encounter is an opportunity to fulfill our calling as ambassadors for Christ.
 
And we can’t stop there. Let us also be diligent in discipling new believers, walking alongside them as they grow in their faith and teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded. For it is in making disciples that we truly fulfill the Great Commission and bring glory to God. May the Lord empower us by His Spirit to be faithful witnesses and disciple-makers in our community and beyond. May He give us the wisdom, courage, and compassion to proclaim the Gospel boldly and to nurture new believers in the faith.
 
Together, let us run the race set before us, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith.                                                     
 
--Pastor Chris