CONTENT

Topic: MOTIVES FOR EVANGELISM

1. Introduction

2. Motives for Evangelism

3. Fellowship with Christ

4. Judgment of Christ

5. Love of Christ

6. Ministry of Christ

7. Power of Christ

8. Death of Christ

9. Conclusion

Bibliography

1
1. Introduction
Evangelism is one of the greatest things a believer or a follower of Jesus
Christ should do. It is the great commission of Jesus Christ before ascending to heaven. Every
believer is an evangelist because for sharing the gospel he or she does not need any certificate.
Sharing gospel is our responsibility. Apostles shared the gospel as Jesus said to them to “go and
preach the word of God till the end of the world”. Apostles have done what they can, now it is
our responsibility to bear that and to continue the work. Acts of Apostles is giving a good
account of how apostles shared the gospel. Paul is explaining in 2 nd epistle to Corinthians chapter
5 how will a person get motivation to do evangelism. Knowing about what all things make a
person to share gospel?
In this paper the writer is going to deal with the topic “Motives of Evangelism” based on 2 nd
Corinthians chapter 5. It will help the reader to achieve their knowledge on the topic motives of
evangelism.

2. Motives for Evangelism

Motives for evangelism can vary from person to person, but they are typically rooted in the
desire to share the message of the Gospel and to see others come to faith in Christ. Motives for
evangelism is discussed in 2nd Corinthians 5.

3. Fellowship with Christ

Fellowship with Christ, as described in 2 Corinthians 5, is a concept rooted in the
Christian faith. This chapter of the Bible, specifically 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, provides insights
into the nature of this fellowship and its significance in the life of a believer.1
New Creation: In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the Apostle Paul writes, "Therefore, if anyone is in
Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."
This verse emphasizes that when someone becomes a Christian and is "in Christ," they
experience a profound transformation. Their old self, characterized by sin and separation from
God, is replaced by a new self, born of the Spirit and reconciled to God. This is the foundation of
fellowship with Christ—a new identity and relationship.
Reconciliation: Verses 18-19 highlight the theme of reconciliation. It states, "Now all
things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ and has given us the
ministry of reconciliation." Through Jesus Christ, believers are reconciled to God. This means
that the barriers and enmity caused by sin are removed, allowing a restored relationship with
God. Fellowship with Christ is, therefore, a fellowship of reconciliation.
Ambassadors for Christ: In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul describes believers as "ambassadors
for Christ." An ambassador represents their country and its interests in a foreign land. In the
1
Billy Graham, "Peace with God: The Secret of Happiness" (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1953), 222.

2
context of Christianity, believers represent Christ and His message to the world. This implies that
our fellowship with Christ carries a responsibility to share the good news of reconciliation with
God through Him.
Imputed Righteousness: Verse 21 sums up the theological foundation of this fellowship:
"For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of
God in Him." In this verse, the sinless Christ took upon Himself the sins of humanity, and in
exchange, those who believe in Him receive His righteousness. This imputed righteousness is a
crucial aspect of our fellowship with Christ. It means that we are not only reconciled with God
but also made righteous in His sight.2

4. Judgement of Christ
The "judgment of Christ" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5 refers to the future judgment that
all believers will face, not for the purpose of determining their salvation but for evaluating their
faithfulness and works as Christians. This judgment is often referred to as the "Judgment Seat of
Christ" or the "Bema Seat of Christ.3
In 2 Corinthians 5:10 (NIV), the apostle Paul writes: "For we must all appear before the
judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while
in the body, whether good or bad. “Here are some key points to understand about the judgment
of Christ based on this verse:
Universal Accountability: The verse begins with "For we must all appear," indicating that
every believer, every Christian, will stand before the judgment seat of Christ. This judgment is
not limited to a select group but is a universal event for all believers.
Purpose of the Judgment: The purpose of this judgment is not to determine one's
salvation. Believers are already saved through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Instead, it is to
evaluate their works and faithfulness in the service of Christ during their earthly lives. It's a time
when their actions, motives, and service for the Lord are reviewed.
Receiving What Is Due: Each believer will "receive what is due" based on their deeds,
whether "good or bad." This means that there will be rewards given for faithful service and
potentially a loss of rewards for unfaithfulness or improper motives. It's not a judgment of
condemnation but a judgment of rewards and accountability.
Life on Earth: The judgment is related to "the things done while in the body." It pertains
to a believer's actions, decisions, and service during their earthly life, specifically in their role as
a Christian.
Eternal Perspective: The Judgment Seat of Christ has an eternal perspective. It focuses on
how believers used their time, talents, and resources for the advancement of God's kingdom and
22
John Stott, "Christian Mission in the Modern World" (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1975), 311.
3
Mark Dever, "The Gospel and Personal Evangelism" (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2007), 32.

3
the well-being of others. It underscores the importance of living a life that aligns with God's will
and purposes.4

5. Love of Christ
The love of Christ, as depicted in 2 Corinthians 5, is a central theme in this chapter and is
a profound expression of God's love for humanity.
Motivation for Everything: The entire chapter of 2 Corinthians 5 underscores the
transformative power of Christ's love. In verse 14 (NIV), Paul writes, "For Christ's love compels
us because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died." Here, the love of Christ
is described as a compelling force that motivates believers to live for Him. It's not out of
obligation or fear, but out of a deep sense of love and gratitude for what Christ has done.5
Reconciliation through Love: Verses 18-19 emphasize that God, through Christ, initiated
the process of reconciliation with humanity because of His love. It says, "All this is from God,
who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." The love
of Christ is what drove God to bridge the gap between Himself and humanity, making
reconciliation possible.
No More Counting Sins: 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NIV) goes on to say, "not counting people's
sins against them." This demonstrates the depth of Christ's love in that, through His sacrifice on
the cross, our sins are not held against us. His love provides the way for forgiveness and the
restoration of a broken relationship with God.
Ambassadors of Christ's Love: In verse 20, believers are referred to as "ambassadors for
Christ." As ambassadors, they are tasked with representing Christ to the world. This includes
sharing His message of love, reconciliation, and salvation. Believers are to embody and extend
the love of Christ to others.
Made Righteous through Love: In verse 21 (NIV), it says, "so that in him we might
become the righteousness of God." Christ's love is what made it possible for believers to become
the righteousness of God. His love covers our sin and imputes His righteousness to us.

6. Ministry of Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5, the ministry of Christ is a central theme that Paul discusses in the
context of the Christian faith. This chapter highlights the nature and purpose of the ministry of
Christ.

4
Francis Schaeffer, "The God Who Is There" (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1968), 567.
5
J.I. Packer, "Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God" (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1961), 212.

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 Reconciliation: The primary focus of Christ's ministry, as described in this chapter, is
reconciliation. In 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV), it says, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to
himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." Christ's ministry involves
reconciling humanity to God. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, He made it possible for
people to be reconciled with God, overcoming the separation caused by sin.
Entrusting the Message of Reconciliation: Christ's ministry includes entrusting believers
with the message of reconciliation. In 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NIV), it states, "that God was
reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has
committed to us the message of reconciliation." Christ's followers are given the responsibility to
share the good news of reconciliation with others, to proclaim the message that through Christ,
people can be made right with God.
Representing Christ: Believers are called to be ambassadors for Christ. In 2 Corinthians
5:20 (NIV), Paul writes, "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his
appeal through us." This ministry involves representing Christ to the world, acting as His
ambassadors and conveying His message of reconciliation. As ambassadors, believers are called
to live out and share the love, grace, and truth of Christ.
Bearing the Ministry of Reconciliation: Throughout the chapter, the ministry of Christ is
linked to the responsibility that believers have to carry forward this ministry. In 2 Corinthians
5:20 (NIV), it continues, "We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God." This
emphasizes the urgency of the ministry and the call to encourage others to be reconciled with
God through faith in Christ.6

7. Power of Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5, the power of Christ is a significant theme, especially in the context of
the Christian faith and the believer's relationship with Christ. This chapter highlights the
transformative and empowering aspects of Christ's work.7
Transformation and New Creation: The chapter begins by emphasizing the transformative
power of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV), it says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new
creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse underscores the power of
Christ to bring about a radical transformation in the life of a believer. Those who are in Christ
experience a profound change, becoming new creations with new perspectives, desires, and
identities.
Motivation for Service: The power of Christ also serves as a motivation for believers to
serve Him and live for His glory. In 2 Corinthians 5:14 (NIV), Paul writes, "For Christ's love

6
Timothy Keller, "Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City" (Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan, 2012),211.
7
Ralph Winter, "Perspectives on the World Christian Movement: A Reader" (Pasadena, CA: William Carey Library,
1981), 456.

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compels us because we are convinced that one died for all." The love of Christ is a compelling
force that motivates believers to live for Him and engage in His work, knowing the sacrifice He
made on their behalf.
Reconciliation: The power of Christ is evident in the reconciliation of believers to God.
In 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV), it states, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself
through Christ." Christ's power is demonstrated in the ability to bridge the gap between humanity
and God, overcoming sin and separation.
Imputed Righteousness: The power of Christ also involves imputing righteousness to
believers. In 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV), it says, "so that in him we might become the
righteousness of God." Christ's power is at work in making believers righteous in the eyes of
God, despite their sins and shortcomings.
Ambassadors for Christ: The power of Christ is seen in the role of believers as
ambassadors for Him. In 2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV), it states, "We are therefore Christ's
ambassadors." As ambassadors, believers represent Christ and carry His message to the world,
relying on His power to convey the truth of reconciliation.8

8. Death of Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5, the death of Christ is a significant theme that plays a crucial role in
the Christian understanding of salvation and reconciliation. The chapter discusses the impact and
purpose of Christ's death in the context of the believer's relationship with God.9
Sacrificial Atonement: The chapter emphasizes the sacrificial nature of Christ's death on
the cross. In 2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV), it says, "And he died for all so that those who live should
no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again." Christ's death
is depicted as a selfless act of sacrifice for the benefit of humanity. Through His death, He atoned
for the sins of believers, making it possible for them to be reconciled with God.
Reconciliation through Christ's Death: The death of Christ is central to the theme of
reconciliation. In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (NIV), it states, "God, who reconciled us to himself
through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to
himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them." Christ's death is the means by which
God reconciles humanity to Himself, bridging the gap created by sin and restoring a broken
relationship.
Substitutionary Atonement: The concept of substitutionary atonement is implied in 2
Corinthians 5:21 (NIV), which says, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us so that in
him we might become the righteousness of God." In Christ's death, He took upon Himself the

8
David Bosch, "Transforming Mission: Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission" (Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books,
1991),126.
9
D.T. Niles, "That They All May Be One" (Geneva: World Council of Churches, 1963), 675.

6
sins of humanity, bearing the penalty and consequences of sin on their behalf. This act allows
believers to receive the righteousness of God.
Motivation for Christian Living: The death of Christ serves as a motivation for Christian
living. In 2 Corinthians 5:14 (NIV), it says, "For Christ's love compels us because we are
convinced that one died for all." The knowledge of Christ's death on behalf of believers compels
them to live in a manner that reflects His sacrifice and love.10

9. Conclusion
2 Corinthians 5 provides several powerful motives for evangelism, with the love of
Christ, the ministry of reconciliation, and a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others
being central. Believers are motivated by their own experiences with God's love and grace, their
responsibility as ambassadors for Christ, and their desire to see people reconciled to God. These
motives drive them to share the message of the Gospel with others and fulfill their role as
messengers of God's love and salvation.

Bibliography
Bosch, David. "Transforming Mission: Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission." Maryknoll,
NY: Orbis Books, 1991.
Dever, Mark. "The Gospel and Personal Evangelism." Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2007.
Graham, Billy. "Peace with God: The Secret of Happiness." Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1953.
Keller, Timothy. "Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City."
Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2012.
McGavran, Donald A. "Understanding Church Growth." Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1970.
Niles, D.T. "That They All May Be One." Geneva: World Council of Churches, 1963.
Packer, J.I. "Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God." Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press,
1961.
Stott, John. "Christian Mission in the Modern World." Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press,
1975.
Schaeffer, Francis. "The God Who Is There." Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1968.
Winter, Ralph. "Perspectives on the World Christian Movement: A Reader." Pasadena, CA:
William Carey Library, 1981.

10
Donald A. McGavran, "Understanding Church Growth" (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1970), 854.