There is nothing more important in the Church than evangelism. If you think I'm wrong on this, I really need to hear from you, because I don't want to be deceived. But here's how I see it at this point.
God doesn't want anyone to perish, but all to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9, Luke 13:3, 5)
He chooses to use the method of preaching the Word as the means of bringing people to Him. (1 Cor 1:21, Rom 10:14)
The Great Commission commands us to do the Lord's work in proclaiming the Word and witnessing to others. (Matt 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, Acts 10:42)
Ezekiel says we'll be held accountable for those we do not speak to. (Ezekiel 33:8-9)
Eternity is at stake. (Daniel 12:2)
So, any amount of Bible study, learning, church programs, serving the community and any other works, while all very important and good things, they are all secondary to the one thing Jesus Christ gave us to do.
I agree with the words of Charles Spurgeon, which convicted me to the heart the first time I heard them: "Have you no wish for others to be saved? Then you're not saved yourself, be sure of that!"
And what bothers me the most in churches and around other Christians is the apathy towards the lost. Some talk a good game, but when it comes down to it, the actions don't follow. I often fall short as well, and I pray for more conviction, for more compassion, for more opportunities to share with the lost and to equip other believers to do the same.
"What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' " 'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.
"Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go.
"Which of the two did what his father wanted?"
"The first," they answered.
Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.
-Matt 21:28-31
Our behavior is our beliefs put into action. What do you believe?
