As we finally move into a colder season in Hong Kong, I am reminded of a story that started on an even colder morning in 1850. A young man was walking through a severe snowstorm in Colchester, England, when the weather was so fierce that he dived into a small Primitive Methodist chapel. Inside, only a dozen people had braved the blizzard. The normal minister was absent, and instead, a rather nervous-looking preacher shuffled into the pulpit. Lacking in preparation and experience, he stuck closely to one verse: “Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other” Isaiah 45:22.
Spotting Charles in the back, he said directly, “Young man, you look miserable. Look to Jesus Christ!” That young man was Charles Spurgeon. And in that moment, through one ordinary believer’s words, God opened his eyes to grace. Charles Spurgeon went on to share Christ with millions of people, and his words continue to be quoted in sermons today. Yet, it all began with one person’s simple courage to speak.
The Bible reminds us that the power doesn't rest on us
Evangelism often feels daunting. We fear awkwardness and potential rejection. Maybe we fear saying the wrong thing. The Bible reminds us that the power doesn’t rest on us. Paul wrote, “we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us” 2 Corinthians 4:7. That inexperienced preacher’s clumsy nervousness did not hinder God’s work. Our weakness doesn’t hinder God’s work.
Everyday evangelism does not require you to be eloquent or learned. You do not need to deliver a sermon. Think of yourself as someone who points to the door. Perhaps it’s starting a conversation or simply asking a question. Sometimes it’s about extending an invitation. The Holy Spirit does the convincing: we simply bear witness.
Here are a few ways we can take part:
Pray intentionally: Ask God to place one or two people on your heart. Whether it’s a friend, neighbour, family member or a colleague, begin praying for them every day. God often softens hearts long before words are spoken.
Live curiously: When grace shapes our lives, when we forgive quickly, serve quietly, and speak kindly, people notice. Peter urges us “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” 1 Peter 3:15 so let your life prompt people to ask you questions.
Invite confidently: You don’t have to explain everything; just extend the invitation and ask good questions: “Would you like to come with me to Alpha?” This simple question might be a catalyst for someone’s first step towards a new life with Christ.
That nameless preacher in Charles’ story never knew that his few trembling words would have such a profound effect. We may never know the fruit of our conversations either, but each small act of witness joins the great story God is writing.
