Dismantling the Word “Evangelism”
Here’s a news flash – the word “evangelism” is emotionally, historically, and theologically charged.
That’s why we’ve created a manifesto. A manifesto is a public declaration of intentions or a statement of belief to ground and guide an organizations’ work. That’s what we’ve created: a manifesto to provide clarity about why we do all that we do at World Methodist Evangelism. Because the world needs Jesus Christ, and words shouldn’t get in the way.
A Manifesto for World Methodist Evangelism
Many people think evangelism is about control and manipulation. We believe evangelism is about relationships and trust, about creating space for the Holy Spirit to work within and between us.
Many people think evangelism is only about saving souls. We believe evangelism includes that and more – the transformation of whole persons – body, mind, and spirit.
Many people think evangelism is only about getting into heaven when we die. We believe evangelism is about sharing good news that’s meant for all creation – both now and in the age to come.
Evangelism. It’s bold humility – the humility to see the world as it is and the audacity to believe that God is working, even now, to eliminate evil, and bring to completion the justice and peace of the kingdom inaugurated in Jesus of Nazareth.
Evangelism. It’s the radical idea that all of creation – human beings, nature, our entire universe – all of creation needs to be healed, transformed – saved. It’s the radical idea that all can be saved, and all can know that they are saved.
World Methodist Evangelism – becoming channels of transformation through the power of God’s Holy Spirit and making known to the world the whole-creation nature of salvation.
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New things are happening at World Methodist Evangelism. Visit us at www.worldmethodist.org to find out more.