How should a biblical understanding of conversion impact our evangelism?

How should a biblical understanding of conversion impact our evangelism? A biblical understanding of conversion should lead us to:

1. Tell the good news. Conversion results from hearing news—good news. Therefore, we evangelize by sharing the good news of the gospel. “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news (Isa. 52:7). “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:17).

2. Tell all the news. Conversion involves repenting of sin, which means we must tell the bad news before we tell the good: “We have all sinned and the wages of sin is death. God will judge us for our sin” (Rom. 3:23; 6:23).

3. Rely upon God to convert and don’t manipulate. Only God can convert people by his Spirit (John 3:3-8). In evangelism, therefore, call people to a decision and then give them space to make it. Don’t apply emotional pressure or manipulation. Pray for them.

4. Explain the necessary human response. Conversion involves human repentance and belief. In evangelism, therefore, explain that people must repent and believe in Christ (Mark 1:15).

5. Explain that following Jesus is costly. Conversion is a radical U-turn. It requires forsaking self-rule for God’s rule. In evangelism, therefore, explain that the choice to deny oneself and follow Jesus should not to be made without counting the cost (Luke 9:23; 14:25-33).