“For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him” – Colossians 1:16 (KJV)
An evangelist can be defined as “a person who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith, especially by public preaching.” By this very definition, many evangelists who have never stood behind a pulpit are at work in the world. Mark 5:1-20 has a beautiful account of hope and transformation about such a person. It begins with the man living in the tombs, naked, tormented, and seeking to self-harm day and night.
When the man saw Jesus, his first action was to worship Him. You see, even in his illness, he recognised the Lordship and Authority of Jesus Christ. Then came an intrusive thought – Jesus had come to torment him.
Beloved, this man had grown accustomed to persons restraining him with chains and fetters which he easily broke, but here was a man who could break those unseen fetters in his life. His name is Jesus! Jesus directly addressed the many demons that possessed him and cast them out into a herd of swine, upon their request.
The keepers of the swine went into the city and reported what had happened. When the people went to see for themselves, they saw the man, sitting at Jesus’ feet, clothed and in his right mind. What an amazing God!
The people, however, were afraid of this miraculous power and asked Jesus to leave their village. May this never be your position with Jesus. Embrace His loving, transformative power to do good.
As Jesus was preparing to leave, the man who had been possessed begged Jesus to go with Him, but Jesus told him to go home to his friends, share his testimony, and let everyone know of God’s love and compassion.
Yes, beloved, this is how an evangelist is born! Everywhere the man went, he shared what Jesus had done for him; the people marvelled.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love, mercy, and kindness. We’re so grateful that You see the finished product instead of the raw material. Thank You for saving us by Your grace. Now empower us to go out and evangelise in Your awesome name. Amen.
Read: Matthew 10:27; John 8:12
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 26:13-22; Hebrews 2; Obadiah 1