The Pastor As An Evangelist

God has his church on this earth that they might be evangelists to the world. The ministry of the word involves the function of evangelism.

1. The pastor is to do the work of evangelism
   Some people believe the duty of the pastor is only to teach the saints. The pastor should teach the saints, but he should also bring the gospel to unsaved sinners. (2 Timothy 4:5) A pastor must do every aspect of his ministry. Evangelism is included in a pastor's ministry and without evangelism, a pastor's ministry is not complete.

2. The pattern of evangelism (2 Cor 4: 2,5)
   2a. it involves the work of presentation
   Fundamental to the work of evangelism is the presentation of truth. Gospel preaching must be both orthodox and doctrinal. We are not to water down the gospel. In our age, the church works much on people's emotions, but neglects people's minds.

2b. it involves the work of persuasion (2 Cor 5:11)
"Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men." This implies that people in the world are wrong. People may accuse us of being arrogant, but there truth is there is only one name under heaven by which they can be saved. A preacher is to try to change the minds of the unsaved. We need to be thoughtful in our approach and do all we can to change people's minds. Two opposing Gods cannot be right.

2c. it involves the work of pleading (2 Cor 5:20)
"We pray you...be ye reconciled to God." Preaching is not a mere presentation

3. The place of evangelism (2 Cor 5:10)
   A pastor is to preach where people are. This includes everyday public places and also the church.

4. The purpose of evangelism
   The saving of souls should be the center and focus of evangelism.