April 2nd, 2025
by Pastor Jody Burkeen
by Pastor Jody Burkeen
If there’s one area where the modern church has drifted from its foundation, it’s evangelism. Somehow, we’ve convinced ourselves that sharing the Gospel is for the “gifted,” the pastors, the missionaries, or those with extra time. But the truth is, evangelism isn’t a spiritual elective—it’s a basic requirement of following Jesus.
Getting back to the basics means returning to the mission that Jesus gave every single one of us:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” (Matthew 28:19)
Those weren’t just words for the first-century church. That’s the Great Commission—and it’s still the mission of the church today.
Evangelism Starts With the Gospel
Before we can share the Gospel, we have to know the Gospel. Not just a few verses or religious lingo—but the truth that Jesus Christ died for our sins, rose from the grave, and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments or pushing religion—it’s about introducing people to the life-changing grace of Jesus.
It’s the most powerful message on earth, and we’ve been entrusted with it.
It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Obedience
One of the biggest lies the enemy whispers to believers is, “You’re not qualified to share your faith.”
But hear me clearly: Evangelism isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about pointing people to the One who does.
You don’t have to be a theologian to share the Gospel. You just have to be willing.
If you’ve been changed by Jesus, then you have a story worth sharing.
Evangelism Is a Lifestyle, Not an Event
We’ve often made evangelism about scheduled events—outreach nights, mission trips, or tent revivals. And while those things are great, real evangelism happens in everyday life.
Colossians 4:5-6 says,
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt.”
Evangelism is as much about how we live as it is about what we say. When our lives reflect Jesus, our words carry weight.
The World Needs What We Have
Let’s not forget the urgency of the Gospel. We’re not just talking about making people feel better—we’re talking about eternity. People are lost, broken, and searching for hope, and we have the answer.
Romans 10:14 says,
“How then are they to call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher?”
You may not stand behind a pulpit, but your life preaches a sermon every single day.
Let’s Get Back to the Basics
It’s time we stop overcomplicating evangelism. We don’t need a new method—we need boldness, obedience, and a heart that breaks for the lost.
Let’s be a people who live the Gospel and share it with passion. Let’s stop waiting for the “right moment” and start being faithful in the everyday moments.
Back to the basics means back to the mission—back to the call to go, speak, love, and lead people to Jesus.
So, who is God putting in your path today?
Don’t miss the opportunity. The world needs the Gospel. And God chose you to share it.
In Love,
Pastor Jody
Getting back to the basics means returning to the mission that Jesus gave every single one of us:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” (Matthew 28:19)
Those weren’t just words for the first-century church. That’s the Great Commission—and it’s still the mission of the church today.
Evangelism Starts With the Gospel
Before we can share the Gospel, we have to know the Gospel. Not just a few verses or religious lingo—but the truth that Jesus Christ died for our sins, rose from the grave, and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.
Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments or pushing religion—it’s about introducing people to the life-changing grace of Jesus.
It’s the most powerful message on earth, and we’ve been entrusted with it.
It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Obedience
One of the biggest lies the enemy whispers to believers is, “You’re not qualified to share your faith.”
But hear me clearly: Evangelism isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about pointing people to the One who does.
You don’t have to be a theologian to share the Gospel. You just have to be willing.
If you’ve been changed by Jesus, then you have a story worth sharing.
Evangelism Is a Lifestyle, Not an Event
We’ve often made evangelism about scheduled events—outreach nights, mission trips, or tent revivals. And while those things are great, real evangelism happens in everyday life.
- It happens at the gas station when you encourage a stranger.
- It happens at work when you live with integrity and speak with grace.
- It happens at your kid’s ballgame when you choose love over anger.
- It happens when your life looks different—when people see Christ in you.
Colossians 4:5-6 says,
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Your speech must always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt.”
Evangelism is as much about how we live as it is about what we say. When our lives reflect Jesus, our words carry weight.
The World Needs What We Have
Let’s not forget the urgency of the Gospel. We’re not just talking about making people feel better—we’re talking about eternity. People are lost, broken, and searching for hope, and we have the answer.
Romans 10:14 says,
“How then are they to call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher?”
You may not stand behind a pulpit, but your life preaches a sermon every single day.
Let’s Get Back to the Basics
It’s time we stop overcomplicating evangelism. We don’t need a new method—we need boldness, obedience, and a heart that breaks for the lost.
Let’s be a people who live the Gospel and share it with passion. Let’s stop waiting for the “right moment” and start being faithful in the everyday moments.
Back to the basics means back to the mission—back to the call to go, speak, love, and lead people to Jesus.
So, who is God putting in your path today?
Don’t miss the opportunity. The world needs the Gospel. And God chose you to share it.
In Love,
Pastor Jody
Pastor Jody Burkeen
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Archive
2025
March
Back to the BasicsThe Danger of Walking Away from the CrossWhen the Lukewarm Get UncomfortableThe Top 10 Reasons a Church DiesA Call To Be Set ApartPursuing Holiness – Part 2: What It Looks Like in Our Lives and the ChurchBack to the Basics: The Role of Discipleship for the Mature BelieverBack to the Basics: Worship Is a Lifestyle, Not a Sunday Morning ThingBack to the Basics: Returning to a Life That Reflects ChristThe Worst Thing That Ever Happened Was the Best Thing That Ever HappenedBack to the Basics: Giving Is a Lifestyle, Not Just a DonationThe Process of Church Discipline A Pastor’s Heart on Tithing: Let’s Return to Faithful Giving
2024
February
April
May
A Critical Examination of Michael Todd's TeachingsRevisiting Leadership and Accountability: A Critical Look at Mark Driscoll’s CharacterExamining The Teachings of Bill Johnson- Bethel ChurchA Critical Review of Andy Stanley’s Teachings: Lukewarm Understanding of ScriptureRecognizing False Teachers: A Guide for Church MembersGood Shepherds Understanding Bible Translations: Which Ones Should We Trust?Confronting Bad Theology in the Church5 Ways Christians Can Build Their Faith
July
Finding Comfort in the Midst of Loss: A Biblical Perspective on SufferingThe Seven Stages of Grieving: A Biblical PerspectiveUnderstanding Luke 11:1-4: The Lord's PrayerHistory of the AltarThe Power and Practice of Intercessory PrayerAre You A Christian Who Prays?The Power of Corporate Prayer: A Biblical Perspective
October
2023
January
Tips for a Consistent Prayer LifeRegular Church Attendance is Good for the SoulFastingPrayer and FastingBeing a Christian FriendBe SanctifiedGrow In The Grace and KnowledgeServing OthersBiblical StewardshipHow to Create Godly FriendsTaking Care of the Widows and OrphansEvangelize!Doctrine of AtonementSpiritual Disciplines
February
March
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