There are many conceptions about evangelism, and one is that Christians should not be afraid to share the word of God. The reality of this world and sharing one’s faith makes it difficult to not feel the nerves of sharing the gospel. Many believers fear sharing the gospel because of the negative reactions they might get.

As Christians, we are called to share the word of God and sing His praises. Understanding fear and how it impacts what we are called to do can change your gospel sharing game.

Let’s break down fear and its side effects.

The Fear of Sharing the Gospel is Supposed to Make us Weak.

It is normal to feel fear when it comes to sharing the gospel, especially in today’s world. Many dread sharing Christ because of the negative reactions waiting on the other side. Some might have objections to the gospel in which you don’t know how to answer, others might not want anything to do with it, and many might cancel Christianity.

Because of these negative responses, fear takes over and then we begin to ask questions like, “how strong in my faith am I if I am too scared to share?” or “does this fear of sharing the gospel make me a weak Christian?” The reality is, that this fear is strength in evangelism.

Instead of allowing the fear to consume us, using it to humble ourselves and depend on Christ shows strength in our relationships with Him. Depend on Him to provide the words, wisdom, and courage to share the gospel.

“I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” 1 Corinthians 2:3-5

Fear is Supposed to Prevent us from Sharing the Gospel.

“The more often he feels without acting, the less he will be able ever to act…” C.S Lewis, The Screwtape Letters.

In this book, Screwtape is writing to his nephew Wormwood about a human whom they are trying to steer away from Christ. This quote is just as relevant in evangelism. The more we allow ourselves to fear and not share the gospel, the less we will ever share. Even without the presence of fear, we will become conditioned to not take advantage of gospel opportunities.

The enemy’s goal is to reduce the number of believers, and the easiest way to do that is by preventing believers from sharing. The less we do as Christians, the more the enemy is doing. Instead, we need to remember that fear cannot prevent us from pursuing our duty as Christians – that is to increase the number of believers.

When you begin to notice that your fear is keeping you from sharing the gospel, refocus things on above and not on the fear – the enemy wants you to dwell on fear so you do not act. Instead, say a prayer. Ask for the courage and strength to speak up and share what God places on your heart.