DEALING WITH REJECTION DURING EVANGELISM 2
OCTOBER 18, 2024
TEXT: “For we are labourers together with God: Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:9)
As believers, we are commissioned to spread the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. However, this noble endeavor often comes with a harsh reality: rejection. Last Saturday, we delved into the concept of rejection and its various dimensions in fulfilling the Great Commission. We established that rejection is an inevitable part of sharing the gospel, just as Jesus Himself faced rejection in His own town, Nazareth. This teaches us that acceptance is not solely determined by our message’s validity but by the receptivity of our audience.
Throughout history, prophets, apostles, and evangelists have encountered rejection while spreading God’s Word. This phenomenon raises crucial questions: How do we respond to rejection? What lessons can we glean from biblical examples? How can we persevere in the face of rejection?
REWARDS OF ENDURANCE IN THE FACE OF REJECTION
- Divine Recognition: Persevering through rejection demonstrates faithfulness and dedication, attributes highly valued by God. He seeks effort and intentionality, not mere success. (1 Corinthians 3:5-8)
- Growth and Fruitfulness: Enduring rejection in evangelism fosters spiritual growth and empowers soul-winning. (John 15:1-8)
BIBLICAL FIGURES WHO FACED REJECTION IN EVANGELISM
- Apostle Paul: Paul endured numerous rejections, including near-stoning at Lystra and rejection by his own people in Jerusalem. (Acts 14:5,19)
- John the Baptist: Initially rejected by Pharisees and Sadducees, John was later beheaded by Herod for preaching repentance. (Matthew 3, 14)
- Stephen: Rejected by Jewish leaders, Stephen was stoned for fervently spreading the gospel.
- Jeremiah: Jeremiah faced oppression, imprisonment, and persecution under King Zedekiah for proclaiming God’s plan. (Jeremiah 11:18-23, 38:1-13)
- Peter and John: These apostles were arrested and persecuted twice for spreading Jesus’ teachings. (Acts 3, 5)
These heroes of faith demonstrate that rejection is an inevitable part of evangelism.
SEARCHLIGHT: When sharing the gospel, expect diverse reactions. Your response to rejection reveals your commitment.
PRAYER: Father, grant me the strength to persevere through rejection, in Jesus’ mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Ezekiel 13-15, Matthew 19
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
