This episode mostly deals with psychological hindrances to evangelism, principally a ministry mindset that is driven more by "feelings" than obedience. Many believers gravitate to serving in areas in which they are gifted, and feelings of fulfillment naturally abound. Sharing the gospel on some level, is however not the sole prerogative of the "gifted" evangelist and apologist, for ALL believers are exhorted to provide a reasoned account for "the hope that lies within them, with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15) Evangelism then is not a "gifted-restricted" ministry but a universal mandate placed on all believers. Not being a gifted evangelist, I struggled to respond to this universal command because of fear and low self-esteem, resulting in disobedience in this area. The program contains my testimony how I overcame my "feeling" driven mindset and became obedient to the universal command to witness. Positive feelings and a heightened sense of purpose FOLLOWED obedience, highlighting a common Christian growth experience. God commands us to obey, making us initially uncomfortable and dissatisfied, but obedience ultimately brings satisfaction and positive feelings that more than compensate for initial hesitancy and awkwardness.
Called to Repent and Obey
The beginning of this episode presents a positive description of repentance from God's perspective: God is not a cosmic killjoy imposing commandments on us to keep us from enjoying ourselves. His commandments are the guardrails that ensure an ultimately fulfilling life. Repentance and subsequent obedience are therefore part of the purpose of the Christian life, according to 1 Peter 1:2, where the Spirit separates us for obedience and the forgiveness of sins. Holistic salvation incorporates repentance as an ongoing practice with the aim of obeying Christ more. And all the mistakes along the way are covered by the blood of Christ.