[Jesus] called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.

Luke 9:1-2 (ESV)

 

Preaching the gospel of the Kingdom is not limited to just the pulpit. A community that reveals Christ is greater than one preacher. Being made kings, priests, and prophets by the power of the Holy Spirit, we are given the privilege to proclaim the gospel over every situation and bring it into alignment "on earth, as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). We can learn from the example of the Apostle Peter. He proclaimed the truth of who Jesus is and what He has done for the disabled man to receive his healing.

Jesus gives each of us the authority and power to preach the kingdom and heal the sick. The question is, do we believe what Jesus has done for us? If we truly trust Him, then we just need to step out in boldness and courage to do what our Lord tells us to do. However, often than not, we are too fearful or reluctant to share the gospel because we are afraid of the response (or the lack of it).

There are times we can share the gospel with strangers or new people we meet. However, we usually need to build relationships with individuals so that we can minister to their innermost needs through the love of God. God will work with us and on us so that we, like the Apostle Paul, might have the same kind of boldness to say:

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 (NIV)

Can you think of one person whom God is calling you to love and reach out for Christ? Success begins with you obeying God, and not the result of your ability of sharing the gospel. Remember, someone loves you enough to take the risk to share Christ with you for you to do the same with someone else. The best part is, you can invite and involve others to support you in praying and reaching your friend for Christ. This is one thing we can do to transform our city for God.