Discover the style of evangelism that best suits you
Finding the style you feel comfortable with sharing the Gospel will build your confidence. Perhaps you’ve been trying only one method for a while, and now is the time to try another. Or maybe you weren’t aware there are at least six styles of evangelism and you have been stuck on one.
Have a read and find your fit below, and if one interests you click on the additional links to explore further.
The Intellectual Approach
Often known as apologetics, this is where conversation and debate take place around topics of faith and culture.
Globally, society is becoming increasingly secular, so the intellectual approach has an important role to play in how we share the Gospel.
Although not everyone can hold philosophical and theological conversations, you can signpost people to sites and resources that do.
There are a few to explore-
Two great books to read and pass on to those with questions are –
Amy Orr-Ewing Where is God in All the Suffering? and, Why Trust the Bible?
A biblical example of this-
Acts 17 Paul in Athens
The Direct Approach
Proclamation evangelism. This style is not just for the stadiums and crowds, it can be useful in group settings and in one-on-one conversations. The direct approach gets straight to the point and is always expectant of a response. Although this style works, be cautious with your approach.
If you feel that this method best suits you, or you would like to explore further and get connected with others go to https://www.evangelist.global/
A biblical example of this-
Acts 2 – Peter addressing the crowd on Pentecost
The Testimonial Approach
Sharing your story. This is a highly effective method of evangelism. Everyone can do this because everyone who has said yes to Jesus has a story to tell. It is often the first step into evangelism people take because it’s personal and relatable. The best way you can grow in sharing your story is by taking the time to craft your story. To read a previous article I have written about this click here or go to the resources page to download a PDF template on how to craft your story in the format of past present future.
A biblical example of this-
John 4 – The Women at the well
The Relational Approach
The friendship evangelist. This may be your style if your circle of non-Christian friends is larger than your Christian one. You may be known as the churchgoer, Jesus follower and respected for it. The way you live your life is part of your evangelism. You bring people together and when you say ‘follow me’ people come. The friendship evangelist has an incredible opportunity to share the Gospel but feels the pressure of not changing the friendship dynamics so may struggle to share the Gospel when opportunities arise.
One great resource that can help you take small steps towards sharing your faith with your friends, not just being known for someone with a faith is the i61m app. An online community of those trying to do the same packed with resources to help, and stories to be inspired by.
Download from the Apple Store or Google Play
A biblical example of this-
Matthew 4 – The calling of the disciples
The Invitational Approach
Although this is like the Relational approach (follow me) the invitational evangelist is not limited by existing friendships and extends an invite to an event or service where people will hear the Gospel with almost anyone.
You draw confidence to invite people based on what you are inviting them to attend. You may not feel comfortable sharing the Gospel yourself, but you know if they go ‘there’ they will.
Think this might be you, but have nothing to invite them to? Alpha is a great invitation. If your church isn’t running a course and you would like to, have a conversation with your leaders and go to https://alpha.org.uk/run-alpha
A biblical example of this-
John 1 – Philip and Nathanael
The Service Approach
The Good Works evangelist. This may be your style if you prefer to share the love of Christ through deed over word. Through your compassion and care, you are expressing the heart of the Christian faith and following up your actions with an explanation as to why you do what you do. Although many churches provide pathways for you to serve the community you may be interested in exploring new opportunities.
ROC is a national charity that works alongside whole communities establishing long-term projects to local needs. To take a look at their existing work or get in touch with the team go to -
A biblical example of this-
Mark 2 – The Paralysed Man
Cheering you on all the way.
Written by – Marie Aitken