“Evangelism is a one-time action and an ongoing reality.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – May 28, 2026
Evangelism in Community
After some time Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.” Acts 15:36, NLT
I was raised in a church community that often spoke of the importance of evangelism. As such, I frequently went on mission trips, weekend “street evangelism” outings, and cultivated a listening ear for any chance I might have to speak of Jesus to someone who might need to hear about him. Of course, this is a beautiful impulse, born of love for Christ and a desire for others to know the joy we have found in him. However, if evangelism is limited to a one-time prayer or a single moment of repentance, it ultimately hurts the new believer by welcoming them in yet failing to walk with them through the journey of discipleship.
Paul and his companions were men on the move! They actively and passionately proclaimed Christ wherever they went, inviting people to be baptized and repent of their sins, placing their full trust in Christ as Lord. Yet notice the words in today’s verse from Acts 15:36. Having done the initial work of evangelism, they did not abandon these new believers or leave them to figure it out on their own. “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.”
Evangelism is a one-time action and an ongoing reality. We share the good news of Jesus and walk with new converts, teaching them by word and deed how to live a Christian life in every area of their lives. Our lives with Christ do have a starting line, marked by repentance and trust, yet they are also an invitation into daily repentance and ongoing trust, walking with the family of believers as we strengthen one another and learn together how to follow Christ as he leads. And so, do the good work of evangelism, yet learn from Paul today and commit yourself to the ongoing work of living in community and fellowship with other believers, leading as you are able and learning from them as needed. This is the ancient pattern of discipleship and is the path every Christian in every age is invited to walk.
Prayer
Father, thank you for the gift of your people and the community of faith into which you call us. Give us compassion to reach out in your name, and the courage to walk with people day in and day out, together becoming the men and women you’ve made us to be, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Application
In what way is the Lord inviting you today to walk with someone in community, modeling the way of faithfulness day in and day out?
Related Reading
Matthew 28:19-20; Colossians 2:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Worship Resource
Chris Tomlin: I Will Follow
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
