Burning Hands: Why Evangelism Still Matters

Gibert Carreras | Garden City Church | July 20th, 2025

Let’s be honest—talk about evangelism can get complicated. In a world that often questions the why behind our bold declarations of faith, it’s easy to feel uncertain. But as believers, we can’t afford to let culture shape our mission. We’ve got to go back to the source—God’s Word—and ask: Why do we proclaim the Gospel in the first place? What’s our foundation?

Take a moment:
What’s your current approach to evangelism? Do you feel a fire in your heart for it? Let's examine 8 reasons evangelism is not simply relevant, but necessary.

1. Because God Loved First
John 3:16 (NIV) — “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Evangelism begins with love. Not guilt. Not pressure. But the kind of radical love that would send Jesus to save broken, wandering people. That’s the heart of the Gospel—and it should be the heart behind our outreach.
How does God’s love shape your heart toward others?

2. Because Jesus Lived It
Luke 19:10; Mark 1:14 (NIV) — “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” / “Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.”
Jesus didn’t just come with a mission—He embodied it. Whether at a well, over a meal, or in front of crowds, He was always proclaiming good news. If we want to look like Jesus, our lives should echo His message.
How can your everyday spaces become places of Gospel conversations?

3. Because Jesus Commanded It
Matthew 28:18–20 (NIV) — “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...’”
This isn’t optional. It’s not reserved for pastors, missionaries, or extroverts. It’s a call for every believer—to go, to share, and to disciple.
Are you living in obedience to the Great Commission?

4. Because the Holy Spirit Empowers Us
Acts 1:8 (NIV) — “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…”
God doesn’t leave us hanging. He fills us with power to proclaim Jesus boldly—across cultures, languages, and comfort zones. You’re not alone in this mission.
Do you rely on the Spirit’s power when you share your faith?

5. Because the Apostles Didn’t Back Down
Acts 2:38 (NIV) — “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…’”
After being filled with the Spirit, the apostles stood up and preached with fire. The same fire that filled them is available to you. Their boldness sets a precedent we’re meant to follow.
Is your message aligned with Jesus and His apostles?

6. Because Some Paid the Ultimate Price
Acts 7 (NIV) — "Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, boldly declared Jesus even as stones rained down. He died proclaiming the truth."
Why? Because once you’ve seen the risen Savior and felt the Spirit’s fire, silence isn’t an option. Evangelism might cost us—but it’s worth it.
Would you be willing to suffer for the Gospel? What’s holding you back?

7. Because Paul Laid the Theology Down
Romans 1:16; 10:14; 2 Timothy 4:5 (NIV)
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation…”
“How can they hear without someone preaching to them?”
“Do the work of an evangelist…”
Paul reminds us: Evangelism isn’t emotional hype—it’s theological necessity. People can’t believe what they haven’t heard. And they can’t hear unless we speak.
How does your theology shape your urgency for evangelism?

8. Because People Are in the Fire
Jude 1:23 (NIV) — “Save others by snatching them from the fire…”
This is where it gets raw. People are on the edge of eternal destruction. And we’re called to rescue them—not with judgment, but with urgency and compassion. Let your hands get burned if it means pulling someone from the flames.
Does the eternal reality of others stir your heart? Do you carry urgency or apathy?

Final Thought:
Evangelism isn’t outdated. It’s not reserved for platforms or extroverts. It’s the burning heartbeat of God—and it’s meant to set your hands on fire. Not from applause, but from rescuing people out of darkness.
May your hands be burned.

From the fire of love, the power of the Spirit, and the urgency of heaven’s call.