The Beggar And The Tax Collector
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To anyone who thinks that evangelism—sharing the good news of Jesus Christ—is only for the lost, Frankie wants to explain that it is also for the believer. God does supernatural work through the Holy Spirit to bring transformation to the hearer of the gospel. So, although the lost need a transformation of salvation from eternal destruction, the believer is also transformed by an ongoing salvation that shapes and conforms their lives into the image of Christ. But in our world, there is so much "noise" that distracts and leads people away from God and righteousness. So it takes an even greater determination to both listen to and proclaim the gospel of Christ to unbelievers and the church. So how can we observe Jesus to learn about hearing and sharing His good news?
When Jesus came to seek and save the lost, His method of evangelism was not conventional or formulaic. He was able to speak to the heart of each person without regard for any judgement from onlookers. He effectively extended His mercy to the oppressed and to the oppressor because He saw what the people didn't. Jesus knew a heart that was impacted by God was far greater than a political or social change in a man-made kingdom. The recipients of His grace and mercy led to the production of good fruit in their life. We can expect the same today—a true recipient of God's grace through the gospel—whether believer or unbeliever—will produce fruit that glorifies God and moves them toward a love for others that demonstrates the love they received from God.