Becoming an Every Day Every Place Witness
The call to evangelism is not reserved for pastors, missionaries, or those with a formal ministry title. It is a calling for every follower of Christ. The gospel was never meant to stay within the walls of a church—it is a movement meant to reach into every part of society. From the beginning, Christianity spread through ordinary people who carried an extraordinary message.
The Breakthrough in Antioch
In Acts 11:19-26, we see one of the most significant moments in the history of the early church. The city of Antioch was a bustling metropolis, much like modern-day cultural hubs such as New York, Paris, or Hollywood. It was a melting pot of wealth, entertainment, and philosophy. Yet, in the midst of this city’s distractions and excesses, the gospel took root.
It was not the apostles who first brought the message to Antioch, but ordinary believers—men and women scattered by persecution—who refused to keep quiet about the hope they had found in Jesus. They didn’t wait for a church program or an official mission trip. They simply shared Christ in their everyday lives, and the result was a spiritual breakthrough that changed the course of history.
Every Christian on Mission
The early Christians understood that evangelism was not a specialized role but a natural expression of their faith. Michael Green, a well-known church historian, describes how the early church grew not through formal preaching but through informal, everyday conversations. They shared the gospel over meals, during walks, in marketplaces, and in their workplaces. There was no distinction between “ministers” and “laypeople”—every believer was considered a witness for Christ.
This mindset is just as crucial today. Many Christians think that sharing the gospel requires an official platform, but the truth is, our workplaces, schools, and social circles are our mission fields. Every conversation is an opportunity, every interaction a potential moment to reflect Christ’s love.
Contemporary Examples of Everyday Evangelism
We see this principle at work in our modern world. Consider a barista who offers a listening ear and a prayer for a struggling customer. Over time, this small act of kindness leads to a deeper conversation about faith and, eventually, a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
Think of a mechanic who prays for people while working on their cars, turning his garage into a place of hope. Or a business owner who cares for his employees and not just the bottom line, celebrating them, helping at pain points in their lives, and inviting them to gatherings designed specifically to gently introduce them to Christ. A young professional shares a testimony on social media about how God brought them through a difficult season, and a follower seeks encouragement. A rideshare driver keeps a Bible on his dashboard, creating an environment where passengers feel comfortable asking about faith. I know a Hedge-fund manager who, with his wife, not only serves those with whom they work and socialize but brings Christ to them in simple kindness and powerful witness. I could list so many examples of how everyday evangelism works.
We must ask ourselves: Do we see our daily interactions as opportunities for mission?
Every Christian’s Character: Being a Living Witness
Acts 11:23-24 tells us about Barnabas, a man described as “full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” When he arrived in Antioch, he found a church filled with effervescent joy—evidence of the Spirit’s work. Barnabas’ life was a testimony in itself. “He was a good man…” and we know from Acts 4 that he was generous too. More than that, “Barnabas,” which means “son of encouragement,” was a nickname. His birth name was Joseph, but he overflowed with such joy they started calling him “Bar-Nebo” - the son of consolation, or, literally, the son of bubbling up joy! He encouraged others to remain steadfast in their faith.
As we seek to share the gospel, our character matters just as much as our words. People are drawn to lives filled with peace, kindness, and love. When we exhibit the fruit of the Spirit, our witness becomes compelling. People may initially reject a sermon, but they cannot easily dismiss a life that radiates Christ’s joy.
Equipped to Share the Gospel
Evangelism is not just about leading people to make a decision for Christ; it’s about making disciples. In Acts 11:25-26, we see Barnabas bringing Paul to Antioch to teach and strengthen the believers. It was in this city that the disciples were first called “Christians.” This title was not just a label but a reflection of their identity as people who followed and imitated Christ.
We, too, are called to be apprentices of Jesus—learning from Him, growing in His likeness, and helping others do the same. Evangelism does not end when someone makes a profession of faith; it continues as we walk alongside them, encouraging and discipling them in their journey with Christ. We are life-long learners, and part of this instruction is knowing how to share Christ with others.
At SRC, we are going to be intentional and serious about giving our members the tools for everyday witness in word and deed.
Living Out the Great Commission
Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and He continues to do so through us. The world is searching for meaning, hope, and truth. As believers, we have the answer.
The question is, are we willing to step into this calling?
Do we see ourselves as missionaries in our daily lives?
Do we recognize that every interaction is an opportunity to share Christ?
Are we allowing God to transform us so that our lives reflect His goodness?
The fields are ripe for harvest. There are people around us—at work, at school, in our neighborhoods—who are hungry for hope. They may not come to a church on their own, but they will listen to a friend, a coworker, a neighbor. They are waiting for someone to share the good news.
Let’s commit to being everyday missionaries—people who bring the gospel into our homes, workplaces, and communities. Let’s step into our calling with boldness, love, and joy. The world needs the message we carry.
Are you ready to be an everyday evangelist?