Based on insights from Rick Holland on Evangelism
When we think of evangelism, we often imagine methods, programs, or formulas that teach us how to share the gospel. We learn about steps, outlines, or special verses to use when explaining salvation. These tools are helpful—they guide us in presenting truth clearly. But as Rick Holland reminds us in “Christ, the Savior: Evangelism as a Person, Not a Plan,” the heart of evangelism is not a plan—it is a person, Jesus Christ.
This thought really struck me. Sometimes, without meaning to, we focus more on explaining salvation than introducing the Savior. We ask, “Why would someone reject salvation?” but the better question is, “Why would anyone reject Jesus, the Savior Himself?” Evangelism is not about convincing someone to accept religious ideas; it is about helping them see and know the living Christ who loves them.
Jesus at the Center
Holland explains that evangelism is successful only when Jesus is at the center. The Holy Spirit is the one who opens hearts, convicts people of sin, and leads them to faith. Our role is to point people toward Jesus—the same way the Father and the Spirit glorify the Son. When we talk about Christ, we are joining heaven’s greatest mission: to lift up and glorify Jesus.
Peter describes Jesus as a living stone (1 Peter 2:4–5). He is the cornerstone—the strong foundation of our faith and life. Everything we believe, say, and do as Christians must rest on Him. Peter also says Jesus was rejected by men but chosen and precious to God. Though many people may turn away from Christ, God calls Him His precious cornerstone. Those who trust in Him will never be disappointed.
We Are Living Stones Too
Peter goes on to call believers “living stones” who are being built into a spiritual house. We share in Jesus’ life because He rose from the grave. His resurrection changes everything. Because He lives, we also live—free from the power of sin and fear of death. Our values, decisions, and purpose are now shaped by this new life. Even our evangelism flows from this truth. We share Christ because He has changed us.
Holland also reminds us that in the New Covenant, believers are a holy priesthood. In the Old Testament, priests represented the people before God and God before the people. Now, every believer carries that privilege and responsibility. We represent God to others through evangelism, and we represent others to God through prayer. When we share Christ, we are really inviting people to worship the One who gave His life for them.
Adopted and Belonging to God
The message of salvation is deeply personal. It’s not just about forgiveness; it’s about adoption. In the early church, Christians were known for adopting unwanted children in the Roman Empire—especially girls left to die. They did this because they understood that God had adopted them. Paul writes that we were “predestined for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:5). Through faith, we become children of God, fully loved and accepted.
As God’s children, we belong to a holy nation and a new kingdom. Our lives should reflect the character of our King—holy, loving, and merciful. Evangelism is not just about words but about how we live. When others see holiness, kindness, and humility in us, they see Jesus living through us.
Vessels of Mercy
Everything we have in Christ flows from God’s mercy. Grace gives us what we don’t deserve, but mercy withholds the punishment we do deserve. The cross is the loudest expression of mercy in all of history. Peter begins his letter by blessing God for His mercy, and Paul calls Him “rich in mercy” (Ephesians 2:4). Because we have received mercy, we must also become vessels of mercy—sharing His compassion with others.
The Gospel Is a Person
At the end of everything, Holland says, “The gospel is a person.” This truth is both simple and profound. Our message is not just about heaven or forgiveness—it is about Jesus. When we talk about the gospel, we are talking about Him: His love, His life, His death, and His resurrection.
Every conversation about faith is really an invitation to “consider Jesus” (Hebrews 3:1). Evangelism is not a complicated plan—it is a personal introduction. We are inviting people to meet the Savior who can change their lives forever.
When we truly understand this, evangelism becomes joyful and natural. We no longer share out of duty but out of love for Christ. As we speak about Him, live like Him, and show His mercy, we help others see what we have seen—the beauty and glory of Jesus.
