Text: Mark 16:15
Though the Great Commission was given to the apostles, there are certain principles that still apply today. God wants people to be saved and the gospel is the way to reach them. We should do what we can to spread the gospel. But how can we reach others with the gospel? This lesson focuses on what we can do as individuals in spreading the gospel.
Word of Mouth
- Paul taught the Thessalonians “by word of mouth” (2 Thessalonians 2:15) – this can be done publicly or privately (Acts 20:20)
- Teaching publicly – in the assembly (Acts 20:7); in a scheduled event (Acts 19:8-10); in an informal setting (Acts 17:16-17)
- Teaching privately – example of Apollos being taught (Acts 18:26); Paul’s warning about false teachers shows how effective teaching from house to house can be (Titus 1:10-11)
Written Word
- Paul also taught the Thessalonians “by letter” (2 Thessalonians 2:15) – could be anything from writing religious articles to writing notes of encouragement
- Writing does have its challenges (Ecclesiastes 12:9-12)
- But it also has its advantages – words can sometimes be better expressed through writing (2 Corinthians 10:9-11); writing can be a lasting resource (2 Peter 1:12-15)
Sharing Material
- The Colossians were instructed to share their letter from Paul with the Laodiceans (Colossians 4:16)
- Sharing material allows us to take advantage of the work that others have done
- Many ways to do this – bulletins, tracts, CD’s, material online, etc.
Supporting Preachers
- In addition to churches (2 Corinthians 11:8), individuals can also help support gospel preachers (Galatians 6:6)
- The more support a preacher has, the more he is able to devote himself to the word (Acts 18:1-5)
- John says we should support those doing the work of preaching (3 John 5-8) – we have fellowship with them
Teaching by Example
- We are to let our lights shine (Matthew 5:16) – people should be able to see Christ living in us (Galatians 2:20)
- This can lead to opportunities to teach (1 Peter 3:15)
- A good example alone is not enough – good examples don’t save anyone, only the gospel does (Romans 1:16)
Offering an Invitation
- There may be times when we feel unable to teach others ourselves
- But we can invite (to the assembly or a Bible study) in order to put them in contact with another teacher
- This is what Philip did with Nathanael (John 1:45-46) – “Come and see“
Conclusion
- The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16)
- Those who do not hear it or obey it will be lost (2 Thessalonians 1:8)
- Therefore, we should do what we can to reach others with the gospel
