The need for Soul Winning

/ By
Sermon on Evangelism and Soul winning

The Need for Soul Winning Main Texts: Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8

Introduction – sermon on evangelism and soul winning

Before our Lord Jesus Christ ascended into heaven, He gave a command that has today been referred to as “The Great Commission.” This command is considered “great” for two key reasons:

  1. It was the parting words of the Master to the young church He established.
  2. It represents the primary purpose for His ministry:
  • Matthew 4:19, Mark 1:17 – “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
  • Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost.”
  • John 17:18 – “As my Father sent me, even so I send you.”

The early disciples took this command very seriously. In fact, within the first two centuries following Jesus’ ascension, the early church had reached the entire known world of that time with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What is Soul Winning?

According to Charles H. Spurgeon in his book “The Soul Winner,” soul winning involves:

  • Properly instructing a person that they may know the truth of God.
  • Impressing upon them the truth, leading them to acknowledge it and turn to God.
  • See John 3:3,16,18.
  • For example, consider Luke and Theophilus (Luke 1:1-4).

Why Soul Winning is Important

1. We Have Been Commanded to Win Souls

Furthermore, Jesus gave this command in Matthew 28:19-20. The word “command” in Greek (ENTOLE) means an order or operating instruction.

So, to elaborate further, obeying this command demonstrates:

  • Our love for God (John 15:9-10).
  • Authority over other things (Matthew 8:9).
  • Care for what God cares about – human souls (John 3:16).
  • Faithfulness in the responsibilities God has entrusted to us (Luke 19:13-27).
  • That His confidence in us is well-placed (Job 1:7-8; 2:3-6).
  • Our role as Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:16-20).
An ambassador lives among strangers but does not talk or behave like them. He represents his government and promotes its interests. He must also be aware of his government’s policies.

2. Only Humans Can Reach Other Humans

God did not give the Angels the task of preaching the Gospel. Therefore, it is our responsibility to reach others.

Consider the following examples:

  • Mark 16:5-7 – The angel directed Mary Magdalene to Peter.
  • Acts 8:26-35 – Philip preached to the Ethiopian eunuch.
  • Acts 10:2-7 – Cornelius needed Peter to share the gospel with him.

3. Soul Winning is a True Mark of Christianity

Soul winning is a reflection of God’s purpose for us.

  • Ephesians 2:10 – We are created for good works.
  • John 4:4,27,34; 5:30,36; Luke 19:10 – Jesus Himself lived to fulfill this purpose.

It also stems from:

  • Our love for the Father (John 14:21-23).
  • Our knowledge of God’s judgment (Matthew 10:28; Mark 9:43-44; 2 Corinthians 5:11).
  • The joy set before us (Matthew 25:21,23; Hebrews 12:1-3).

4. Soul Winning is Critical for Eternity

a. The Greatest Concern of Hell

In Luke 16:20-31, the rich man in hell expressed two desires:

  1. Relief from his sufferings – but he couldn’t repent in hell.
  2. His five brothers to be warned so they wouldn’t end up in hell.
This is where we come in to preach to others because Hell is real, whether they believe it or not.

b. The Greatest Joy in Heaven

  • Luke 15:1-7,10 – There is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. Be a joy maker for heaven (Psalm 67:1-2).

c. The Greatest Responsibility on Earth

  • Mark 1:38; 5:18-20; Luke 19:13 – Preaching the gospel is the highest earthly responsibility.

5. Get Mobilized for Soul Winning

To participate effectively in soul winning, you must heed the calls:

  • The Call Within You – A sense of purpose and compassion (Ecclesiastes 3:11; Acts 4:19-20).
  • The Call from Outside – The need of others (Acts 16:9).
  • The Call from Above – God’s commission (Hebrews 12:1-2).
  • The Call from Beneath – The cries of the lost in hell (Luke 16:27-28).

Statistics on Conversions in Churches

Did you know that the majority of conversions happen through personal relationships? Here’s the breakdown:

  • 6-8% – Walk-ins off the street.
  • 2-3% – Attracted by church programs.
  • 8-12% – Influenced by the pastor.
  • 3-4% – Came due to a special need.
  • 1-2% – Visited by church members.
  • 3-4% – Connected through a Sunday school class.
  • 70-90% – Witnessed to by relatives or friends.

So therefore, the question now is:

Who will reach your friends and relatives?

Conclusion

In Matthew 27:22, Pilate asked the crowd, “What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”

Similarly, this is the same question we must ask ourselves today. Soul winning is not just a command; it is an expression of our faith, love, and obedience to God. Let us rise to the challenge, embrace the Great Commission, and bring the message of salvation to those who need it most.

The Need for Soul Winning Quiz

Apostle (DR.) Udoh
Latest posts by Apostle (DR.) Udoh (see all)