The Evangelism Arena; Insights From 2nd Corinthians 4ਨਮੂਨਾ

Day Six: The Enemy of the Message

“And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case, the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (2 Cor. 4:3-4, ESV).

Think of a time you shared the gospel, and the person wasn’t interested...or even became angry. That doesn’t mean you failed. If you spoke the truth in love, a person’s response isn’t a result of what you did or did not say. Instead, another participant known as the god of this world (or age), the devil, is actively working to blind the minds of the people you’re speaking with.

Shortly after receiving Jesus, I talked with a man who had shared Christ with me. He mentioned that he had taken me through the *“Romans Road.” I don’t remember that at all. Why? Because the “god of this world” was blinding my mind. By understanding the “blinding” role of the enemy, we can focus on our role. One of praying (for eyes, minds, and hearts to be opened) and presenting the gospel, enabling the Lord to work on hearts. Other Scriptures provide further encouragement.

1 Corinthians 3:5-9 explains how the Lord works through his children in various ways, with each person having a significant role. What’s remarkable is how God views each person involved as “one” (v. 8). Even though I didn’t recall the “Roman Road,” a gospel seed was still planted in my heart. One that God used on my journey to Christ. This man, and everyone else who spoke to me before I opened my heart to Jesus, are viewed by God as one.

When a sports team is victorious, the entire team celebrates. Similarly, the “gospel victory” belongs to all who participate. The “god of this world” is blinding minds, but that doesn’t mean God isn’t working. If a person doesn’t immediately receive Christ (they may or may not) you haven’t failed. God has used you in an important role to help that person learn more about Jesus. Be assured, regardless of how the Lord uses your faithfulness, your labor for Him is never in vain (1 Cor. 15:58).

Reflection: How many people shared the gospel with you before you trusted in Christ? How does this encourage you to share the good news?

Further Study

Eccl. 11:4-6
John 4:36-38
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
*The Romans Road often includes verses such as Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, and 10:9.