Partnering with God's Power; Prayer and the Holy Spirit

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Partnering with God's Power; Prayer and the Holy Spirit

Evangelism is not just about methods; it’s about power. Effective missionaries learn to partner with God's power.

It’s easy to think of evangelism as just a skill to develop. While learning to communicate the gospel clearly is important, Scripture makes it clear that evangelism is ultimately a spiritual work:

  • It is God who draws people to Himself (John 6:44).
  • The Holy Spirit convicts hearts (John 16:8).
  • We are Christ’s witnesses, but He gives us power (Acts 1:8).

If we rely only on our own ability, we will quickly become discouraged. But when we learn to depend on prayer and the Holy Spirit, evangelism becomes a partnership with God, not just a human effort.

For more on the Holy Spirit see here.

The Role of Prayer in Evangelism

1. Pray for Opportunities

Paul, one of the boldest evangelists in history, still asked for prayer:

"Pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ." (Colossians 4:3)

If Paul needed prayer for opportunities, so do we! Ask God daily to open doors for conversations.

2. Pray for Specific People

Instead of just praying, “God, help me be a better evangelist,” make a list of 3-5 people you want to see come to faith and pray for them by name.

Pray:

  • That God would soften their hearts (Ezekiel 36:26).
  • That He would open their spiritual eyes (2 Corinthians 4:4).
  • That He would give you boldness and wisdom in conversations (Ephesians 6:19).

3. Pray for Boldness

Even the early church, after experiencing persecution, prayed this:

"And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness." (Acts 4:29)

If you struggle with fear in evangelism, ask God to fill you with courage.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Evangelism

1. The Holy Spirit Gives Us Power

Jesus told His disciples:

"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses." (Acts 1:8)

This means evangelism is not just about having the right words—it’s about being filled with the Spirit.

2. The Holy Spirit Directs Us

In Acts 8, Philip was led by the Spirit to approach the Ethiopian eunuch. That conversation led to the man’s salvation.

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you daily:

  • Who should I reach out to today?
  • What should I say in this conversation?
  • How can I reflect Jesus in my workplace, school, or neighbourhood?

3. The Holy Spirit Works in People’s Hearts

No matter how well we explain the gospel, we cannot change hearts—only God can. Jesus said:

"No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him." (John 6:44)

Trust that God is working even when you don’t see immediate results.

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Reflection Questions

  1. How often do you pray for opportunities to share the gospel?
  2. Do you rely more on your own ability or on the power of the Holy Spirit?
  3. How can you become more sensitive to the Spirit’s leading?

Practical Steps to Take

1. Create a Prayer List

  • Write down 3-5 names of non-Christians in your life.
  • Pray for them daily, asking God to draw them to Jesus.

2. Practice Spirit-Led Evangelism

  • Before starting your day, ask the Holy Spirit, “Who do You want me to talk to today?”
  • Be open to promptings, even if they seem small (e.g., sending a message, asking a question).

3. Pray for Boldness and Step Out in Faith

  • Before a conversation, pray: “Holy Spirit, give me the words.”
  • Take a small step—start a spiritual conversation, invite someone to church, or offer to pray for a friend.
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