In a Bible study I attended many years ago a debate erupted about street evangelism. Some claimed it was too direct and off-putting – especially once sin is mentioned. Instead, the suggestion was to simply ‘use the words of Jesus’, as a gentler and softer approach. But this suggestion doesn’t quite make sense, because the Bible tells us that Jesus came to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15) and to bring a sword not peace (Matthew 10:34-36).

Can we really ‘use the words of Jesus’ without offending or downplaying the Gospel? Before we look at His words, let’s first take a look at who Jesus is and what gave Him the right to speak as He did.

Who is Jesus?

Jesus is THE WORD and GOD and was both fully God and fully man during His earthly ministry (John 1:1; 14). Jesus has the Words of eternal life (John 6:68) which He spoke with authority (Matt. 7:29). Being God in the flesh, Jesus knew exactly how to combat Satan’s lies (Matt. 4:1-11).

Jesus’ sinlessness meant that not only could He forgive sins (Matt. 9:2), but His death on the cross was the only sacrifice that could appease the Father’s wrath. Jesus is now our great High Priest, mediating for us in heaven (Heb. 4:14-15; 9:15). Our glorified and risen king (Rev. 1:13-18) will one day return to judge the living and the dead (2 Tim. 4:1).

So what are some things Jesus spoke about? Let’s take a look at Matthew’s gospel…

1.  Jesus spoke about sin

Jesus began His ministry by calling for repentance (Matt. 4:17). We too cannot share the Gospel without addressing repentance from sin. Many people love to highlight that Jesus is all about peace…especially at Christmas time! But have a look at Luke 2:14 – peace on earth is for those with whom God is pleased. i.e. those who are saved. There will never be peace on earth until Jesus destroys sin.

2. Jesus spoke about discipleship

Jesus told us, in order to be a worthy disciple, we must take up our cross and follow Him (Matt. 10:38). He warns us that we will be hated by the world, yet we must endure (Matt. 10:22). Luke adds that we must put our hand to the plow and not look back (Luke 9:62). Discipleship is costly and we shouldn’t be surprised when the world rejects us because of Jesus’ words.

3. Jesus spoke about false converts

Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for creating false converts (Matt. 23:15), calling them ‘sons of hell’. Evangelism must allow for the Holy Spirit’s convicting work to bring people to genuine repentance and faith.  We too mustn’t create false converts as a result of our disobedience to God’s Word or even out of our own fear of rejection by others.  

4. Jesus spoke of a coming judgment

Have you ever heard people say that God in the Old Testament was judgemental, but Jesus is all about love? These people conveniently forget that Jesus is the same God in both Testaments. The very same Jesus who endured earthly trials and sufferings will return to judge (Matt. 25:32), being able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt. 10:28).

5. Jesus spoke with compassion

Despite some tough words, Jesus had compassion (Matt. 9:36), reassuring all believers to not be afraid (Matt. 28:10). Jesus tells us He is gentle and humble in heart (Matt. 11:29) and promises us rest. Even as He hung on the cross, Jesus asked the Father to forgive the unbeliever (Luke 23:34). Yes, Jesus spoke with authority, but He also spoke and demonstrated His Godly love and compassion for humanity.

Jesus Word’s and Evangelism

Whenever you evangelise, make sure you know and understand what Jesus’ words are (2 Tim. 3:16-17). This means accepting that topics such as sin and judgement cannot be avoided or softened. Naturally we must not be belittling or rude, but even if we are to be as polite and nice as possible, the true message of salvation may offend those we speak to.  These are spiritual matters (1 Cor. 2:14) and only the Holy Spirit can work in someone to bring true repentance even if they may initially reject what we say. Remember, those who hear and act on Jesus words are wise (Matt. 7:24).

So, let’s conclude with the words of Jesus regarding evangelism: