Preach the Gospel: Part 2 – The Call to Action and Overcoming Challenges

Introduction: Answering the Call to Preach the Gospel

In Part 1 of our series on preaching the Gospel, we explored the foundation of the Gospel message, the importance of sharing the good news, and the power of the Gospel to save and transform lives. But knowing the message is only the first step. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to take action. We are called to be witnesses to the world, to go into all the nations and make disciples of Jesus Christ.

In this Part 2, we will delve into the call to action to preach the Gospel and look at the challenges we face while sharing the good news. We will also explore how to overcome these challenges and remain faithful to our mission.

1. The Call to Action: Go and Make Disciples

The Great Commission given by Jesus to His followers is clear: we are called to go and make disciples. This is not an optional mission—it is the very reason the Church exists. The Gospel is meant to be shared, and it is our responsibility to take it to those who have not heard.

• Bible Verse: Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Making disciples involves two things: evangelism and discipleship. We must not only preach the Gospel but also teach others to obey all that Jesus has commanded. This process involves relationship, mentoring, and spiritual growth. As we go into the world, we must remember that the Great Commission involves both spreading the Gospel and building up believers in their faith.

2. Overcoming the Fear of Sharing the Gospel

One of the biggest challenges we face when it comes to preaching the Gospel is fear. Fear of rejection, fear of not having the right words, fear of persecution—these fears can paralyze us from taking action. However, the Bible reminds us that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.

• Bible Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

When we are fearful, we must remember that we are not alone in this mission. The Holy Spirit empowers us to boldly share the Gospel, and we do not need to rely on our own strength. God promises to give us the courage and confidence we need to proclaim His truth.

Overcoming fear begins with trusting God’s promise of help and understanding that faith overcomes fear. We must trust that the Holy Spirit will guide us, even when we don’t have the right words to say.

3. The Challenge of a Hostile World: Facing Persecution

Throughout history, Christians have faced persecution for preaching the Gospel. Even today, in many parts of the world, believers are facing severe opposition for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. This can include mockery, rejection, and even physical harm.

But the Bible makes it clear that persecution is a part of the Christian journey. Jesus Himself told us that we would face opposition, but He also promised that He would be with us.

• Bible Verse: John 15:20 – “Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.”

Though persecution can be difficult, it should not deter us from preaching the Gospel. Instead, it is a reminder that we are on the right path. When we face trials for sharing our faith, we are identifying with Jesus’ suffering and participating in His mission.

Rather than shrinking back in fear, we are called to stand firm in our faith and continue to boldly proclaim the Gospel, knowing that we have a heavenly reward awaiting us.

4. The Challenge of Cultural Barriers: Reaching People from All Backgrounds

Another challenge in preaching the Gospel is crossing cultural barriers. Every culture has its own language, traditions, and worldviews, which can make it difficult to communicate the message of Jesus effectively. However, the Gospel is universal, and it speaks to every culture, language, and people group.

• Bible Verse: Revelation 7:9 – “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”

The Holy Spirit equips believers to bridge cultural divides and to present the Gospel in ways that are both relevant and respectful to different groups of people. We must take the time to understand the culture we are engaging with and communicate the Gospel in a way that resonates with their values and beliefs, all while staying true to the core message of Jesus Christ.

• Practical Tip: When preaching to people from different cultures, it’s important to listen first. Understand their worldviews, their challenges, and their needs. Only then can we present the Gospel in a way that speaks directly to their hearts.

5. The Power of Prayer: Relying on God’s Strength

Preaching the Gospel is not something we can do in our own strength. We need to rely on God’s power and guidance through prayer. Prayer is our connection to God and the means by which we receive strength, wisdom, and courage to carry out the Great Commission.

• Bible Verse: Ephesians 6:19-20 – “Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.”

Before we share the Gospel, we should pray for boldness, wisdom, and for the hearts of those we are speaking to to be open to the message. Prayer also empowers us to face challenges like fear, persecution, and cultural barriers with confidence and grace.

6. The Joy of Seeing Lives Transformed

Despite the challenges we face, the rewards of preaching the Gospel far outweigh the difficulties. There is joy in seeing people’s lives transformed by the power of the Gospel. When someone hears the message of Jesus and responds by accepting Him as their Savior, there is celebration in heaven.

• Bible Verse: Luke 15:10 – “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

The joy of seeing a life changed, the hope of eternal life in Christ, and the glory of God in the salvation of souls are all worth the effort and challenges. Every person who comes to know Christ through our efforts is a testament to the power of the Gospel and the faithfulness of God.

Conclusion: Embracing the Call to Preach the Gospel

Preaching the Gospel is not an easy task, but it is the most important mission we can undertake. We are called to go, to make disciples, to share the message of salvation, and to overcome the challenges that stand in our way. We do not do this in our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit and with a heart full of love for God and His people.

As we continue to preach the Gospel, let us remember the urgency of the mission and the joy that comes from seeing lives changed. Let us stand firm in the face of challenges and rely on the power of prayer, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

• Bible Verse: Romans 10:14-15 – “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”