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“The Uncomfortable Truth About Evangelism”
Categories: Bulletin Articles, Clay Gentry“Go and make disciples of all nations.” Jesus’ command resonates with all-encompassing clarity, yet our individual practices often reveal selectivity. We often shape our evangelism around unspoken limitations. The uncomfortable truth is that we’ve become adept at hearing what Jesus didn’t say, effectively silencing the unrestricted outreach of his Great Commission.
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of financially secure people."
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are free from doubt.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are already seeking God.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who live comfortable lives.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of popular people.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are already ‘churched people.’”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who fit nicely into your church.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who will boost your attendance numbers.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are asking the right questions.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those everyone already loves.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who share your beliefs."
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who can financially support your church.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of morally upright people.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who have it all together.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who agree with your political views.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of respectable people.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are easy to reach.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who married with children.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who will never rock the boat.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who already understand the Bible.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are educated and well-spoken.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who are free from addiction.”
- He didn’t say, “Go and make disciples only of those who look like you.”
We stand at a crossroads. Will we continue to shape the Great Commission to suit our preferences, or will we allow its expansive nature to transform us? The uncomfortable truth demands a response. Let’s embrace the ‘all’ in Jesus’ words and commit to evangelism that reflects His boundless love - for ‘all’ people.