Week 21 Devotion: “Evangelizing Within”
Read: Romans 10:14-17
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” Romans 10:17 NKJV8
The modern-day family can have interesting dynamics. In the past, households typically functioned as one unit but today, individuals of one home can appear to be strangers who happen to live in the same space. Each person can be in their own rhythm and progressing through life in their own separate lane. However, when an entire family is saved, they become distinctly united as they work out their salvation together.
In chapter 10 of the book of Romans, Paul expresses his deep longing for a particular family- the Israelites – to be saved. However, he emphasizes that their salvation cannot come about without a specific sequence of events. That is to say, there must be evangelists who are sent, who preach the Word, so that it may be heard, so that the Israelites can believe and ultimately call on the name of the Lord. Until this happens, the Israelites would not know the true salvation and righteousness that only comes from God.
In our evangelistic efforts as Christians, sometimes it’s easier to reach out to people you don’t know as opposed to those you do. It is not uncommon for believers to be motivated and encouraged to share the gospel, while simultaneously neglecting their own unsaved family members in the process. Perhaps we’ve given up on them or feel as though we cannot preach the Word to them due to their longstanding reservations, complacency or stubborn unbelief. However complacent they may be, their lack of right standing with God should motivate us to continue pursuing their salvation.
Salvation has never been about what we have done for ourselves to become right with God. It has always been a free gift to us paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 1:7). So if we ever encounter family members who think it’s enough to be a “good” person, have a good heart and be charitable, we must explain that those works do not equate to being saved. And as we inform them of the fundamental truth of the Word, it is important we do not condemn them for what they have not heard. Rather, we must assume the role of the evangelist and not leave it to the pastor of the church, nor the preacher on TV. We must make it our goal to share this life-changing message that will overcome ignorance with transformative knowledge. Delivering this crucial message is contingent upon our commitment to being the speakers and the preachers which enable the hearers to believe.
Reflection
Are there any unsaved family members you know of?
Are you expecting them to believe without having heard the Word?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for teaching me how people become saved. May I emphasize speaking and preaching the Word boldly so that any unsaved family members might hear and believe. I trust You to work through me. In Jesus name, Amen
Written by Deborah Nimoh
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