Question 314: How do you practice evangelism?

Answer:

I practice evangelism by praying for the lost, proclaiming the gospel with truth and love, and living a life that reflects the character of Christ. I share the good news of Jesus through my words, actions, and relationships, trusting the Holy Spirit to work through me. Evangelism is practiced in everyday life—at home, work, and in the world—by being ready to speak of Christ and to welcome others into His kingdom. (Colossians 4:5–6, 1 Peter 3:15, Romans 10:14–15, Matthew 5:16, 2 Timothy 4:2)

Full Scripture References

“Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:5–6 (BSB)

“But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15 (BSB)

“How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent?” – Romans 10:14–15 (BSB)

“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (BSB)

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction.” – 2 Timothy 4:2 (BSB)

Expanded Explanation of Catechism Question

Evangelism is practiced through both word and witness—by what we say and how we live. Fr. Isaac Rehberg (ACNA, All Saints San Antonio, TX) writes, “Evangelism is not a special event—it is a way of life. It means being prepared, every day, to point people to Christ through conversation, kindness, and conviction.” (Evangelism and the Anglican Tradition, 2022)

Prayer is the foundation of all evangelistic effort. Before we speak to others about God, we must speak to God about others. Bishop Stephen Leung (ANiC, Diocese of Western Canada and Alaska) explains, “No heart is beyond God’s reach. Evangelism begins when we kneel—interceding for the lost, for boldness, and for opportunities to speak.” (The Power of Prayerful Mission, 2021)

Practicing evangelism also means being attentive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting in everyday interactions. Fr. Caleb Evans (Anglican Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s Mission, GA) notes, “Sometimes evangelism looks like a deep conversation. Sometimes it’s a simple word, a tract, or an invitation to church. Faithfulness is more important than flashiness.” (The Quiet Evangelist, 2020)

The Church is a vital part of evangelism. We do not witness alone. Fr. Thomas Buchan (Anglican Union, St. Mark’s Anglican Church, VA) teaches, “Our liturgy, community, and sacraments form and send us. Evangelism is not a solo mission but a shared calling, supported by the life and worship of the Church.” (Sacramental Mission, 2021)

Canon George Grant (ACNA, Parish Presbyterian Church, TN) adds, “Evangelism must be practiced with truth, humility, and joy. It is not an argument to win but a gift to give. As we tell the story of Christ, the Spirit opens hearts to receive Him.” (Recovering Anglican Piety, 2019)

Early Church Fathers on Catechism Question

“Let your life teach before your lips speak. Then your words will be strong, for they will rise from truth.” – John Chrysostom, Homily on 1 Peter, c. 390 AD

“Evangelism is practiced when Christ is seen in the believer and heard from his lips. The world believes not only by hearing, but by seeing.” – Augustine of Hippo, On Christian Teaching, c. 397 AD

“Let every word be spoken in love, and every action reflect the gospel. Then shall the Church shine and the lost be drawn in.” – Basil the Great, Homily on Psalm 33, c. 370 AD

“He who has received the grace of Christ must not hide it. Let him proclaim it, that others may be saved also.” – Irenaeus of Lyons, Against Heresies, c. 180 AD