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NASB | John 3:5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 3:5 Jesus answered, "I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot [ever] enter the kingdom of God. [Ezek 36:25-27] |
Subject: what is born again? |
Bible Note: Dear Val, You asked, "Could you tell me how you view evangelism." I'd be happy to do so. Thank you for your interest. I probably should have posted a "Theological Term: Evangelism" a long time ago. In the interests of getting you a timely response, though, I'll not go into so great detail. Evangelism is clearly explaining the evangel; i.e., the gospel, or good news. I can't think of any better definition, though, than that offered by John Cheesman. He wrote, "Evangelism is not a making of proselytes; it is not persuading people to make a decision; it is not proving that God exists, or making a good case for the truth of Christianity; it is not inviting someone to a meeting; it is not exposing the contemporary dilemma, or arousing interest in Christianity; it is not wearing a badge saying 'Jesus Saves!' Some of these things are right and good in their place, but none of them should be confused with evangelism. To evangelize is to declare on the authority of God what He has done to save sinners, to warn men of their lost condition, to direct them to repent, and to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ." As believers, we participate in evangelism in obedience to God (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 9:16). Having experienced the love of Christ, we participate in evangelism because of love for the lost (Matthew 9:36). But most of all, we participate in evangelism because of love for God (1 Peter 2:12). Of all the works of God, redemption is the most incredible, and that which brings the greatest glory to Him (Isaiah 29:14; John 17:1-10). What a blessing that we are given to participate in the preaching of the Word (Romans 10:14; 1 Corinthians 1:18-21)! Your question reminded me of a quote by Charles H. Spurgeon: "If God would have painted a yellow stripe on the backs of the elect I would go around London lifting shirt tails. But since He didn't I must preach 'whosoever will' and when 'whosoever' believes I know he is one of the elect." In Him, Doc |