Our Third Distinctive: Propagating the Gospel
August 2022
At GFF, we believe that evangelism propagated by the missionary should target the sinner’s conscience rather than his societal circumstances. When Jesus told his disciples that another Comforter would come, he was not speaking of the Holy Spirit’s primary ministry to the lost, but his prominent ministry among the disciples. Concerning his work among the lost, Jesus said the Spirit “will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment,” (John 16:8). Paul affirms in Romans 6:18 that, when we are saved, we are set free from our sin to serve Christ.
When missions become about what can be done to demonstrate brotherly love to draw people to salvation, then a welfare mentality of dependence on their fellow man is created. Thus, gospel ministries, which are focused on relief to expedite the message, are man centered and humanistic; even when done in the name of Christ. Christian humanism makes eliminating man’s social plight the focus of ministry and is the basis for socialism. False converts and hireling church leaders are most often drawn to a humanistic gospel because of the goal of social relief.
Contrary to this, when both the Gospel message and the methods used in delivering that message target the conscience of the sinner, we then minimize the creation of false converts and repel many who are opportunists seeking welfare benefits. After the Holy Spirit calls the sinner to repentance and faith in God through Christ, the convert can begin building his life on the love of Christ instead of the love of man and mammon. At that point, the One who freely gives us all things and has given us all things for life and godliness shows Himself strong on their behalf and teaches them the value of trusting in Him as He gives His benevolent grace in the face of their abundant poverty. (Cf. Rm. 8:32, 2 Pt.1:3, 2 Chr.16:9, 2 Cor.8:2)
Pray with us that as the gospel goes forth in power, it does so with a clear message of drawing people away from sin so that they set their affections on the things that are above, (Col.3:2).
Only one Life to offer,
Rodney Myers
GFF General Director