“And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? … So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:14 & 17, NASB
A shift seems to be occurring in Christian circles. I hear it on the radio. I’ve read about it. Ever so slightly, there’s a move toward the church being Jesus’ hands and feet … without speaking a word. We don’t have to say anything. We just have to do.
What possibly could be wrong with this perspective? After all, “faith without works is dead” (Jas. 2:26), and we need to “love … in deed and truth” (1 Jn. 3:18). I get this. I believe this. And I genuinely am convicted about my need to show God’s love more in practical ways.
However…
The Bible doesn’t support this “evangelism method.” God’s Word says “faith comes from hearing” (Rom. 10:17)–literal hearing. So if we just go around meeting physical needs but not saying anything about Christ, people won’t hear about Jesus. And if they don’t hear about Jesus, they can’t place their faith in Him.
Non-Christian people need to hear the word of Christ, meaning they need to hear words about HIM. When we open our mouths to speak the Good News of Jesus Christ, others learn there is hope. Peace with God is possible. Christ is the answer!
What a timeless and perfect message God has entrusted to us. The Gospel states that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, rose again, and appeared*. People today desperately need to hear this truth, and God has chosen us to speak it. By all means, kindness and service–love in action–should accompany our words. But if we do every good work imaginable without sharing the reason for our hope*, what have we really accomplished?
In a world filled with humanitarian organizations and groups that sincerely help others, the word of Christ sets Christians apart. Let’s not be afraid, ashamed, or dissuaded to declare it. Let’s speak.
Gently and reverently, let’s share our matchless Savior with others … in words.
