Save and Teach the Lost?
As a younger preacher, I overstated truth in an attempt to get the church to be more involved in saving the lost. I would say things like, “You cannot go to heaven alone, so go teach the lost.” I am sure that I wanted Christians to evangelize the world and chose words I would not use today.
Is it true that you cannot go to heaven alone? Think about what that would say about the preaching of Noah. I realize he saved his family, but his preaching never changed anyone except his family. What about the proclamation of truth by Ezekiel? When God called him, He said, “I am sending you to a…rebellious nation…for they are impudent and stubborn children…they are a rebellious house…they are a rebellious house…for they are rebellious” (Ezek. 2:3-7). This prophet is simply one of many of God’s messengers who may enter into heaven alone.
Is it true that every Christian has the ability to teach another? As a younger preacher, I probably overstated this. Read the closing verses in First Corinthians 12. Paul lists many leaders in the church and asks a series of questions about them. “God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers…Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all works of miracles…Earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way” (1 Cor. 12:28-31). Obviously, the apostle is talking about spiritual gifts, but when God gave those gifts, He did not give the gift of teaching to every Christian.
Do not overlook this truth. While not every Christian has the ability to teach another, every Christian does have the ability to lead others to Jesus. As I have matured as a Christian, I understand with greater appreciation the Bible words, “Come and see.” It is found several times in the New Testament, and these words were used to bring others to the Teacher. These same words can be used by any Christian to bring others to those Christians who do have the ability to teach the lost. Not every person has the ability to teach, but every Christian has the words to invite!
What about the Great Commission given to every Christian in regard to every lost soul? Read it carefully. It does not say we are to baptize every person, but to teach them to do what Jesus said. Our work is to sow seed (even on the “wayside” soil), to water that seed and then let God give the increase. All are not teachers, but all of us have the ability to lead others to our Lord, simply by saying, “Come and see.”
The words of an old song perhaps say it best. “Are you sowing the seed of the kingdom, brother, all along life’s fertile way? You must reap at the last great day.” “Come and See!”