Preaching the Gospel Is Obligatory

Preaching the Gospel Is Obligatory

“Because if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast. That's why it's a must for me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:16).

In 1862, a German missionary named Ludwig Ingwer Nommensen arrived in the land of Batak. The journey was not an easy one. He faces rejection, threats, different languages, and even harsh natural conditions. Yet Nommensen continued to preach the gospel of Christ diligently. He lived with the Batak people, learned their language, understood their culture, and served with love.

One day, when there was an outbreak of disease and many people were afraid, Nommensen was still present to help the community. He did not just preach in the pulpit, but showed the love of Christ in real action. From that simple but faithful ministry, many people came to know Jesus Christ. To this day, the influence of preaching the gospel in the land of Batak can still be felt.

The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:16 said that preaching the gospel was “a must.” The word indicates a call that cannot be ignored. Paul did not see evangelism as an additional option for believers, but rather as a primary responsibility. The gospel is not to be kept on its own like a state secret file. The gospel must be shared because it is the gospel of salvation for a world that is perishing.

Many Christians think that preaching the gospel is only the job of a pastor, evangelist, or missionary. In fact, every believer is called to be a witness of Christ. Not everyone preaches in the stadium, but everyone can be a light in their respective places. The world today is filled with people who have lost hope, living in sin, fear, and emptiness. Therefore, the gospel remains relevant and urgently needed.

There are three practical applications that we can do, namely:

First, start with your own family. Preach the gospel by word and by living example. We should not actively serve in the church, but our own families do not see Christ in our lives.

Second, use social media to tell the truth. In the digital age, one spiritual upload can reach many people. Use technology not only for entertainment, but also as a tool for evangelism.

Third, have the courage to testify. Don't be ashamed to confess Christ at school, campus, workplace, or your neighbourhood. Often, a simple sentence of testimony can be used by God to touch a person's heart.

Preaching the gospel is not always easy. There will be rejection, ridicule, and even challenges. But remember, the salvation of the soul is far more valuable than personal comfort. Paul said, “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel.” Let that spirit also live in our hearts today.

Prayer:

Loving Lord God, thank you for the gospel of salvation that has saved our lives. Give us burdened hearts for souls who do not know You. Use our lives as Your tool to proclaim Your truth wherever we are. Give us the courage, love, and faithfulness to be witnesses of Christ to the end of our lives. In the name of the Lord Jesus, we pray. Amen.

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