The Great Commission, “…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15), doesn’t just benefit the lost but also the obedient saved who follow Christ’s command. A special wisdom is given to them: “…he that winneth souls is wise.” (Proverbs 11:30) Wisdom is God teaching us how to rightly apply knowledge. Here are some special insights given when we witness.
- Witnessing teaches me how to pray. Spiritual warfare is best understood when you are on the front lines. When witnessing, we realize how much we need “air support” from heaven. Rightly feeling powerless to save anybody, we pray “Lord please help!” Prayer for the right words, sensitive hearts, and God’s guidance is made when we share our faith.
- Witnessing teaches me the Bible. I learn two things every time I share the gospel. I learn what I know and what I don’t know. Sometimes I’m surprised by something I didn’t even know I knew! And other times I’m ashamed that I didn’t have the answer for the hope that is within me! This drives me to study like nothing else. A soul winner is a better Bible student because when he opens his Bible for study or listens to preaching, he doesn’t just listen for himself, but also for those with whom he will share his faith.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
- Witnessing teaches me the importance of holiness. When you share your faith, the people you witness to expect you to actually practice what you preach; and the world knows how a Christian is supposed to act! Believers who label themselves as Christians by sharing their faith will be inclined to pray, “Lord help me to live a holy life!”
- Witnessing teaches me true friendship. The Great Commission is a team effort. The closest bonds in a soul winner’s life are formed in this effort. Friendships formed around sports, outdoor activities, common interests, or blood relations do not have spiritual meaning. Being friends together with Jesus in His cause is a bond that will never fade. I am thankful for the precious memories that I have working together with God’s people to reach the lost.
- Witnessing teaches me true joy. Better than catching a ten-pound bass or shooting a ten-point buck (I’ve done both) is seeing someone come to the Saviour. Every heartbreak, disappointment, and rejection in sharing the gospel is worth it both now and in the kingdom to come. It is true joy!
Psalms 126:6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.