18 comments

Kimberly Wagner

Spreading the "True" Gospel

Posted on 09.28.09 by Kimberly Wagner | Twitter: @KimberlyWagner7
Topics: Impacting your world, Relationship with God

In my early twenties, I had the privilege of chairing the steering committee that established a crisis pregnancy center in my city. Don't be too impressed-no one else wanted the job!

We had a great group of people who had a heart for the unborn. Our committee consisted of physicians, young moms, business executives, and two area pastors. Although diverse, the group was unified by our mission to rescue the helpless. We remained unified until the day the decision was made that our center was not going to focus primarily on rescuing the unborn, but our first priority would be sharing the gospel with women in need.

The Gospel
crossAt the heart of Christianity is the gospel of the cross (1 Corinthians 15:1–5; Mark 1:14–15; Acts 13:32, 38). There is debate among Christians about this topic. One popular writer recently stated, "Most Christians have no idea what the gospel really is." He then proceeded to enlighten readers to his version of "the gospel." He contended the church has ignored the "true gospel," which is ridding the world of social injustice, poverty, racism, and the ills of mankind.

The reality of the gospel compels us to tackle these mercy ministries, but we must never replace sharing the gospel of the kingdom with the kingdom service of the gospel.   

Replacing the Gospel
There is a danger when focusing on mercy ministries—the tendency to neglect the purpose of ministering to the outcast and afflicted by fixating on physical needs while leaving out the message of the cross (Romans 5:8–10). In living out the gospel, we must always remember that the ultimate concern when ministering to the needy is their salvation.

Although "Christian ministry" can occur without vocally presenting the gospel every time we reach out to someone, I don't believe evangelism can occur without presenting the gospel vocally (or in written form). We must not confuse mercy ministry with evangelism. If we do not present the gospel in our acts of service we may be doing "works of compassion," but that is not evangelism.

The term "evangelism" is derived from the Greek term euaggelizo—"to announce good news, especially the gospel: declare, preach the gospel." In other words, evangelism requires someone to speak or convey the "good news" or the message of the gospel.

Social ministry is not "evangelistic" ministry unless the gospel message is the foundation and purpose. Filling empty stomachs alone is not fulfilling Jesus' commission. Meeting physical needs is a demonstration of God's merciful character. But those living in darkness need the light of the gospel more than anything else.

Yes, we must take a stand against social injustices. Yes, we are to feed the hungry, to rescue those who are being led to slaughter, to care for the orphan and the widow—but as a means of evangelism as well as mercy. Meeting physical needs are temporary solutions; giving the gospel message is of eternal importance. Mercy ministries are an outflow of the gospel, if the cross is central.

The Rest of the Story
By the way, although some said the center wouldn't be able to survive financially when high-level supporters pulled out because of our decision to share the gospel with every client, we survived! Not only that, more than 1,400 babies have been rescued from abortion and 1,800 people have placed their faith in Jesus—the power of the gospel at work!

What avenues is God providing for you today to share the gospel? How is the message of the cross motivating you to reach out to others?

Comments

  1. Hi Kimberly,
    Yes, we do need to share the verses that set people free. John 8:32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
    That's wonderful how God helped the women when it was made a priority to bring them to Christ. And all those babies too.
    I love sharing the gospel (when I have enough love & lack of fear of man.) When God wants to use me, He changes situations dramatically. Right now I'm at home a lot. With caring for 6 children. Us moms need to share The Word with our children much more than we do generally. Proverbs For Parenting & Leading Little Ones To God are two books ROH has. If we are still breathing then their is hope.
    Love in Christ,
    Leslie N.
    posted by Leslie Dawn Neagle
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 2:02 am
  2. This confirms something I've been contemplating for a couple of days. I recently heard about a wonderful work that an old high school classmate is doing to help impoverished youth become productive citizens by helping them get college degrees. It is a wonderful work. However, there was no mention of leading them to faith in Christ. It came to mind, that what does it profit a man to gain the world but to lose his soul?
    As a coordinator of women's ministries, this is a timely message for me. Thank you.
    posted by Naomi Graham
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 9:21 am
  3. Kim, I totally agree. I see it happening more and more. I think if these ministires can get the emotions of the women, especially moms, they know they have us. I have been re-evaluating my giving in terms of is it just helping or are they not ashamed and afraid of sharing the gospel too.
    I was humbled last night when I heard about a man who ministers in the slums of Asia. He said the children get saved not thinking they'll have more to eat, or a place to sleep, but they know whats waiting for them in Heaven. Praise God for people who are listening to God's call!!!
    posted by A mom with a full heart
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 9:23 am
  4. Kim, this is the real good message . Like a plague Christians are worrying too much about social work (only) but forgetting that without Christ they are not saved, and, if they are not saved ,they still need to be fed with the truth that can set them free. We have to share Jesus to all: family, friends, neighbors, if they like or not. We can't give up on any one. We cannot be ashamed of the Gospel .
    Jesus is a real person, not a life philosophy. The Gospel brings the Kingdom of God into hearts.


    Celita Polsgrove
    posted by Celita da Matta Louback Polsgrove
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 10:06 am
  5. The verse that came to my mind as I was reading was Matthew 16:26-"What will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his life?" This is recorded in Mark also. I've been thinking about this issue myself. Although I strongly support all mercy ministries, I often ask the question are they gospel saturated and is the gospel being shared? Yes, feed the hungry, rescue those being led away to death, or women who are being abused and used for profit. But in the end if these souls do not hear the gospel of Jesus Christ, then they are in vain. Great message Kim.
    www.jodylynne.blogspot.com
    posted by Jody
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 10:25 am
  6. Amen! Great post.
    www.cassandraland.com
    posted by Cassandra
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 10:48 am
  7. Amen and Amern! Could you also do a post on what the "gospel" essentially "is"? I know that will probably cross some doctrinal lines but why say something is so important and yet not say what it actually is for fear that some may be offended (or maybe it was assumed that we all believe the same "gospel".) Increasingly I hear "the gospel" as a by word but when I asked someone what they "mean" by that term I get various answers. What does "True Woman" mean by "the gospel"?
    Thank you for this post. The Scripture warns us against fellowship with anyone who believes "another gospel". We must share it and we must be clear about what it is foundationally.
    In my life the greatest place to share the gospel and have people respond was a crisis pregnancy center. I agree that all we do in life should lead to verbally sharing the truth of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus THE Christ with others.
    posted by Susan McCurdy
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 1:25 pm
  8. Wow! I am so glad this topic is being discussed. It has been on my mind for months. We attend my mother's church while we are living here to care for her. Her mind is good, but she has physical limitations. Her church is asked to partipate in programs that feed the hungry and supply Christmas presents to a school for disadvantaged children, BUT they are not allowed to include tracts or religious items. I thought that perhaps instead of asking churches to do this, perhaps they should ask the ACLU for help.
    This is a Christ/gospel-rejecting world that hates God. When John the Baptist sent his disciples to Jesus to ask if He was the one or were they to look for another, Jesus replied that the blind see, the lame walk, etc. and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
    We are so concerned about this temporary life. Jesus said not to fear man who can kill the body and after that can do nothing more, but to fear Him who can cast the body and soul into hell. It is important that we possess eternal life by having our sins paid for before a holy God.
    We have made it a point to give only to those who preach the gospel verbally along with helping people.
    posted by Susan
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 2:29 pm
  9. According Galatians which is God's Word there is only ONE GOSPEL. Paul wrote that all others are anathema (cursed). That does not sound very loving. I pray that I would have enough love for people to tell them the truth. Jesus always did.
    posted by Susan
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 2:36 pm
  10. Kimberly, this is a great post. I am so thrilled to hear about the lives saved--physical AND spiritual. Acts of mercy and evangelism must go hand in hand. I don't think evangelism is effective without mercy, without walking alongside those in need. And mercy or social justice alone is not effective for spiritual needs and salvation.
    www.carolvanderwoude.com
    posted by Carol Van Der Woude
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 2:44 pm
  11. Dear Susan,

    Thanks for the question. You've hit on what apparently is a "hot-button" topic in the church. I read a good article recently describing the two basic views today on "what the gospel is." Follow the link below to the first in a three part series by Greg Gilbert (from Southern Seminary) on this topic.

    http://blog.9marks.org/2008/09/what-is-the-g-1.html

    As far as your question "What does True Woman mean by the gospel?" I would like to refer you to an excellent post written by Paula Hendricks on this topic:

    http://www.truewoman.com/?id=823

    I encourage you to also follow the link she referred to on the Revive Our Hearts website:

    http://www.reviveourhearts.com/rightwithgod/gospel.php

    Also, I think one of the statements contained in the True Woman Manifesto summarizes the gospel message well:

    "We Believe that sin has separated every human being from God and made us incapable of reflecting His image as we were created to do. Our only hope for restoration and salvation is found in repenting of our sin and trusting in Christ who lived a sinless life, died in our place, and was raised from the dead."

    Hope this helps! I'm thankful for your desire to spread the gospel!
    posted by Kimberly Wagner
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 3:25 pm
  12. Ladies,

    Thank you so much for your kind words about this article. I am thankful to hear so many voices affirming the need to combine evangelism -- actually communicating the gospel -- with mercy ministry.

    I'm also thankful for the reminder that our first priority of ministry starts with sharing the gospel with our own family and friends.

    I love hearing from so many True Women!
    posted by Kimberly Wagner
    on Monday, September 28, 2009 at 3:30 pm
  13. Thanks Kim, One of the great blessings about True Women is discovering the many kindred spirits of women who are serious about the gospel, the Scripture and honoring God as women. I appreciate your post and your leadership. I will go to the links you posted to read more.
    posted by Susan McCurdy
    on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 10:46 am
  14. Its refreshing to read an article like this! Its saddening to hear of ministries that consider cleaning a stranger's house evangelism. Service has its place and is helpful in opening doors, but it is not evangelism on its own.
    canceloutthegrey.blogspot.com
    posted by Lilly
    on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 5:14 pm
  15. Has it occured to us that Jesus supplied food only twice? There were four thousand men and five thousand men not including women and children each time, AND He fed them AFTER they heard him preach and teach. I think the collection of the fragments was to teach the twelve apostles something. I might had that the fleshly response of the crowd was that they wanted to make him a king.
    posted by Susan
    on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 10:19 pm
  16. Jesus of Nazareth -The Christ and Messiah

    His Vision, His Message: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent all, and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15).

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    -The message of the book doesn’t preach, but teaches the reader the gospel.
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    www.jesuslittleflock.com
    posted by Jonathan B. Hobbs
    on Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at 11:31 am
  17. Thank you for sharing this with all of us Kim. My husband has been preaching on this same idea recently. We are missionaries on deputation trying to raise support in these tough economic times.

    What saddens us a great deal is the Christian communities wealth and ability to give to the disaster relief needs but the lack of desire and interest in our churches to support missionaries who desire to GO and share the gospel of Christ with those that are lost and dying in their sins. In our part of Africa the people have so little but if they know the Lord as their Savior they have Everything and they know the peace that comes with that.

    In Mark 1;38 Christ says to his disciples "Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also for therefore came I forth". He could have said that he came to heal, or help the poor but He didn't. He came and He went to tell others the Gospel. That was by far more important to Him as it should also be to us.

    If we hear about a child dying of starvation and that no one helped that child when they were able to we say "who would walk away from that". Yet, everyday we walk away from people that are dying in their sins and we have the ability to give them Everlasting life!
    www.carewscause4christincar.com
    posted by Carol J. Carew
    on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at 11:46 am
  18. Wow! this spoked right to my heart. You know I came across this page while serching for versus talking about helping the ones in need. I am going to give a leasson this week for the youth at my church and this is the message God has been putting in my heart. I have been praying asking for Him to give me exactly what he wants me to say and he did with this article. I thank God for your life and I pray he keeps on blessing you and your ministry!
    posted by Merary
    on Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 12:47 am

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