Having a passion for winning souls is essential for every Christian. As believers, we are called to share the gospel and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). However, it can be challenging to maintain passion amid the busyness of life. Here are some biblical ways to cultivate a heart for evangelism:
Pray for the lost
Praying for unbelievers helps soften our hearts towards them. As we intercede on their behalf, God gives us His heart of compassion for the lost. Pray for open doors to share the gospel, for boldness in speaking truth, and for receptive hearts. Persistently praying for souls stirs our passion for their salvation (Romans 10:1).
Remember what Christ did for you
Reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice on the cross motivates us to share the good news with others. “For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died” (2 Corinthians 5:14). As we meditate on the grace we’ve received, our hearts overflow with love for the lost.
Spend time with the unsaved
Building genuine relationships with unbelievers enables us to see them as God does and stirs compassion. While avoiding close partnerships with nonbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14), we must not isolate ourselves. Jesus pursued the lost, even being called a “friend of sinners” (Luke 7:34). As we walk in His footsteps, our hearts grow more evangelistic.
Study biblical accounts of evangelism
Reading biblical stories of outreach increases our passion to share the gospel. Study Jesus’ one-on-one encounters with Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman (John 3-4). Note the boldness of Peter and John before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:1-21). As we meditate on evangelistic accounts in Scripture, our zeal is renewed.
Go on short-term missions trips
Short outreach trips can reignite passion for the lost. Exposure to unfamiliar cultures with little gospel access stirs compassion and urgency. “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?” (Romans 10:14). Missions work powerfully fans evangelistic flames.
Memorize gospel presentations
Equipping ourselves with gospel presentations prepares us to effectively share our faith. Memorize verses, illustrations, or tools like Evangecube or the Wordless Book. Internalizing the message of salvation builds confidence to witness. “In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).
Read biographies of renowned evangelists
Studying respected evangelists inspires passion for outreach. Read books about preachers like George Whitefield, D.L. Moody, Billy Graham, and modern gospel ministers. Learn from their boldness, perseverance, and zeal. “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7).
Start spiritual conversations
Practicing sharing our faith and moving conversations toward spiritual matters breeds confidence and passion. Ask friends about their beliefs or challenges and listen well. Tactfully weave in bits of gospel truth. Starting spiritual dialogues gets easier with practice, fueling evangelistic fire. “…Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15 KJV).
Regularly share your testimony
Telling nonbelievers about how you came to faith keeps your personal story fresh and ignites compassion for the lost. Writing out your testimony helps crystalize it. Look for opportunities to share it in both formal and casual settings. “You are my witnesses, declares the LORD” (Isaiah 43:10). Your personal account of God’s work is powerful.
Take part in outreach events
Participating in church or community evangelistic events provides hands-on experience. Help with logistics for special outreach nights. Volunteer to counsel seekers who respond to altar calls. Join street witnessing teams. Actively look for these opportunities. “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2).
Set evangelistic goals
Establishing personal goals provides focus and accountability. Aim to share the gospel with one person per week. Challenge yourself to give out gospel tracts at specified events. Set targets for missionary financial support. Goals motivate us to put faith into action. “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).
Cultivating evangelistic passion requires both divine grace and personal discipline. As we walk closely with Jesus, pray fervently, fill our minds with Scripture, and actively live out our faith through witnessing, our hearts for the lost grow. May the love of Christ compel us to make disciples until the whole world hears (Matthew 24:14).