Living in a multicultural city like Toronto is an incredible blessing, as it offers a vibrant tapestry of cultures, religions, and beliefs. However, for Christians who desire to share the Gospel of Christ, this diversity can sometimes feel daunting. It’s not uncommon for fear and uncertainty to hinder our willingness to engage in conversations about our faith. I have seen less than a dozen occasions when I’ve seen gospel-sharing during 14 years in Toronto. Not evangelizing is an unspoken rule amongst many Christians and churches I know. But as followers of Christ, we are called to spread His message of love and salvation to all people, regardless of their backgrounds. If Jesus has commanded us to go and preach the truth of the Biblical Gospel, how we can overcome our fears and embrace the opportunity to share the Gospel in Toronto’s multicultural context.
- Recognize the Value of Diversity:
Toronto’s multiculturalism presents an incredible opportunity for Christians to share the Gospel with people from various cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. Embracing diversity means acknowledging that every individual has a unique perspective and story. By engaging in conversations with people from different cultures, we gain a deeper understanding of their worldview and foster mutual respect while looking for common ground and common stories. - Educate Yourself:
Take the time to educate yourself about the various cultures and religions represented in Toronto. When the apostle Paul went to Greek/Roman areas he knew well history, poetry, and customs. Learn about other groups’ customs, traditions, and beliefs. This knowledge will not only help you understand others better but also enable you to connect with them on a personal level. People are often more receptive when they feel understood and respected. This week I was able to present parts of the Gospel with two different Hindus I was working within the office. Fortunately, the first one was exposed to some Christian values and had two good examples from a friend and a Catholic priest. - Cultivate Relationships:
Building genuine relationships is crucial in sharing the Gospel effectively. Engage in meaningful conversations and actively listen to others. Ask questions about their faith, values, and experiences. By showing genuine interest and respect, you can create an environment where people feel comfortable discussing their beliefs and open to hearing about yours. This step will invite you to be a genuine Christian, checking the real motives for building rapport and relationships. Don’t lie, and don’t say words that are not true to make the other person happier or feel welcomed. People will recognize your genuine or hypocrisy in your words and behavior. - Live Out Your Faith:
Actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate Christ’s love through your actions, both within the church community and outside. Volunteer, serve, and show kindness to others regardless of their background. When people see your love and compassion in action, it creates an authentic witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. But remember that doing good works will not replace the preaching of the truth. Some good works that Christians do, are done by others too, so they look more like universal good works. Be aware that in certain situations will require unusually expressed goodness or good works, as Jesus stated that our works should be greater than the other religious people. - Pray:
Prayer is a powerful tool that can help overcome fear and bring clarity and boldness. Acts 4 portraits a great example of the first church. Apostles were beaten and ordered not to preach about Jesus. They gathered and asked for courage from God to preach, not another way. If God says preach the Gospel than we should preach it. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and opportunities to share the Gospel. Ask God to prepare the hearts of those you encounter, that they may be open to receiving His message of salvation. By being specific in these prayer requests you are expressing to God your readiness and the need for God’s support in this. - Prepare to share Your Personal Story:
Your personal testimony is a powerful tool for sharing the Gospel. It is unique to you and provides a relatable and authentic way to communicate the impact of Christ in your life. Be vulnerable and transparent about your journey of faith, and how it has transformed you. People are often drawn to personal stories that touch their hearts and stir curiosity. You can prepare mentally two types of testimonies: a short one, one-minute elevator story, and a longer one-3 minutes. You can have 3 stories in your mind to be used as you see appropriate for the listener. - Trust in the Holy Spirit:
Remember that the responsibility of converting hearts is not on your shoulders. The Holy Spirit works in people’s lives, and it is through His power that true transformation occurs. Trust in His guidance and timing, allowing Him to lead your conversations and interactions. Be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, who will provide you with the right words at the right time.
As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ’s truth in love, reaching out to all people with the message of salvation. When you step out in faith, you can overcome your fears and make a lasting impact on the lives of those around you. Avoid laziness, fear, or other reasons that stop you to share the Gospel saying that you haven’t felt the Holy Spirit leading you to do it. Apostle Paul told his “spiritual son”, Timothy, to preach the Gospelin and out the season ( in good and bad timing).
Stop now and ask yourself: “Do I want to share the Gospel?” If yes, it is great, just do what you read earlier. If not, then check the reasons. Through the Word and the Holy Spirit, you would be able to figure out the reason for the lack of desire to share the Gospel with the people of Toronto or wherever you live.
May the Lord help us as we obey His Great Commission.
Brother Endrit Journey 