Because of the more aggressive and confrontational tactics we hear about, evangelism has developed a bad connotation. Doors are shut hurriedly, phone calls end abruptly and emails left unanswered.
After all, isn't this a task better handled by the pastor?
Perhaps it's time to re-examine John Wesley's model of evangelism as a full, natural circle — where it's a communal beginning point rather than an solitary end.
The central motive of authentic evangelism is: Having received a message that's made all the difference in our lives, we desire to share that message with others in the hope it will transform their lives as well. Wesley models an evangelism that reaches out and welcomes, invites and nurtures, and speaks to both head and heart.