Presbyterian Mission Agency Evangelism Ministry

What Is Evangelism?

Evangelism is the proclamation and manifestation of good news. The following passage from the prophet Isaiah illuminates the expansive, wondrous nature of God’s good news:

“How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news,
who announces salvation,
who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” (Isaiah 52:7)

Isaiah is announcing a return to well-being and sanctuary. The good news that accompanies the reign of God is an encounter with peace, wholeness, salvation, and justice. Inclusive of our words and actions, evangelism is a ministry of the body of Christ that increases the likelihood that we are becoming a peculiar people who live like Jesus in our neighborhoods. Therefore, the good news of God’s love is a journey into a new way of life, which leads to becoming fully human.

Why This Resource?
Evangelism is not a tool to gain new members for our churches. This ministry is not an instrument to help people gain access into heaven. The work of evangelism is much more expansive in its scope and meaning. Evangelism is a way of life that is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit, moving through common practices in the community of faith, enabling and empowering the body of Christ to live more deeply into the love of God and the lives of others.

This resource identifies and explores eight habits of faith, which invite the reader on a journey into the love of God, the lives of our neighbors, and the transformation of creation. As we become more like Christ, we are a people of radical inclusion, generosity, and justice. Through our worship, sacraments, community, prayer, and teaching, lives are being formed and transformed in ways that are the visible and audible signs of the reign of God. The community of faith is designed to be the seen, heard, and experienced as a representation of God’s reign and peace.

Download this resource (approx. 5 MB)