The Evangelism Paradox
- Mar 15
- 2 min read
by David Rollert
It’s no secret that many congregations are shrinking, some to the point of permanently closing their doors. This is tragic and not something we want to happen to our congregation. The question quickly becomes: “Why does this happen?” It is easy to point the finger at the sinful world and shifts in culture, and those do play a part. But, another part of the problem in many locations is a lack of effective evangelism. Again, we ask, “Why are they not doing effective evangelism?” I would submit to you that one reason many congregations and individuals don’t practice effective evangelism is what I call “the evangelism paradox.”
The paradox is this: We want to fulfill the great commission, BUT we also want the church to feel comfortable so that we are not pushed out of our comfort zone. We want to see people converted, BUT we want to maintain the small church atmosphere where we know every person well and we have plenty of elbow room. We want to see people’s lives changed by the gospel, BUT we don’t want any unsavory or undesirable people cluttering up our assembly. We want to see families raising their children in the church, BUT we don’t want those children making noise in the assembly.
Because too many people view their own personal comfort as being more important than the souls of “uncomfortable” people, they simply don’t engage in effective evangelism. Sure, they might talk to a close loved one or dear friend about the gospel. But, only the people THEY deem worthy to sit next to them in worship. As a result, congregations dwindle and people act shocked that they are not bringing in droves of converts.
By contrast, Jesus gave us a different example. Jesus himself gladly taught anyone who was honestly willing to learn. He even intentionally sought out the “unsavory” people who desperately needed the healing that He brings. Consider the account in Mark 2:14-17. Jesus calls a tax collector named Levi to follow Him, then goes to eat at this man’s house. The religious elite ask, “Why is He eating and drinking with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus responds, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Right there is our example of evangelism. The gospel is not exclusively for people we find desirable. It is for everyone! The church is not an elite club for those who are worthy. It is a hospital for spiritually broken people!
God has blessed our congregation with amazing growth. That means that sometimes we will need to sacrifice our comfort for the sake of others’ souls. Let’s be willing to make the sacrifice!
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