For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” Romans 10:11

Principle 4: Share the Gospel with everyone

God wants us to share the gospel with as many people as possible. When we share it we show love reflecting God’s amazing gift of love – His Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (Joh 3:16):

And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 16:15

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? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:14-15

Sharing the gospel can be very challenging, especially if it involves explaining it to someone we may have nothing in common with, find offensive or who wishes us harm. God expects us to share the gospel with everyone, including our enemies, as these verses show:

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Matthew 5:44

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Romans 12:14

 I suspect Philip, one of the earliest missionaries, faced a difficult personal challenge when God led him to preach the gospel in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8).  Likely being of Jewish origin, Philip was probably taught to despise the Samaritans, perhaps even regard them as enemies (Joh 4:9, 8:48). Despite any ingrained cultural attitudes, he may have had, he shared the gospel which resulted in “great joy” (Acts 8:8).   His example reminds us that God does not discriminate (Rom 3:23, Joh 3:16) or show partiality (Rom 2:11), and neither should we.

The greatest illustration of this truth is when the Lord Jesus Christ, while being crucified for our sins accepted the plea “Remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luk 23:42) from a thief who had recently mocked and taunted him (Mat 27:39-44,44) saying:

“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43

Our Lord Jesus Christ’s example inspires and reminds us that He does not want ANY to perish (2 Pet 3:9) – so let’s share the gospel accordingly!

For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13