The question of whether it is a sin to not share the gospel with others is one that has profound implications for the life and mission of every Christian. To address this question, we must delve into the heart of the Great Commission, the nature of sin, and the responsibilities that come with being a follower of Christ.
The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, is a cornerstone of Christian duty. Jesus commands His disciples, saying:
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
This directive is not merely a suggestion but a command from the risen Christ. It underscores the importance of evangelism and discipleship in the life of every believer. The call to share the gospel is rooted in the very fabric of our faith, reflecting the heart of God who desires that all people come to repentance and knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4).
To understand whether it is a sin to neglect this command, we must first grasp the biblical concept of sin. Sin, in its essence, is any action, thought, or omission that goes against the will and character of God. James 4:17 provides a crucial insight into the nature of sin:
"If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them."
This verse highlights the idea that sin is not only about committing wrongful acts but also about failing to do what is right. In the context of the Great Commission, if a believer is aware of their responsibility to share the gospel and deliberately chooses not to, they are committing a sin of omission.
The Apostle Paul, one of the most ardent evangelists in the New Testament, expresses the urgency and necessity of preaching the gospel in 1 Corinthians 9:16:
"For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!"
Paul's sense of compulsion and the warning of "woe" indicate the gravity of neglecting this duty. His life and ministry serve as a powerful example of the importance of sharing the gospel, driven by love for Christ and compassion for the lost.
Moreover, Jesus Himself emphasizes the importance of witnessing in Acts 1:8:
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Here, Jesus outlines the geographical and spiritual scope of our witness, underscoring the global mission of the church. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to fulfill this task, indicating that sharing the gospel is not merely a human effort but a divine mandate carried out with divine assistance.
However, the question of sin must also consider the heart and intention behind our actions. It is possible for someone to feel inadequate or fearful about sharing their faith. In such cases, the issue may not be outright rebellion against God's command but rather a struggle with personal limitations. God understands our weaknesses and is compassionate toward our struggles. He provides the Holy Spirit to empower us and promises to be with us always (Matthew 28:20).
The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 offers a poignant illustration of the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities. The servant who buried his talent out of fear was rebuked for his inaction. This parable teaches that God expects us to use the gifts and opportunities He has given us for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. Failing to do so is seen as unfaithfulness.
Christian literature also speaks to this issue. Charles Spurgeon, the "Prince of Preachers," once said, "Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter." His statement underscores the intrinsic link between genuine faith and the desire to share that faith with others. Similarly, John Stott, in his book "The Contemporary Christian," emphasizes that evangelism is not an optional extra for the believer but an essential part of Christian discipleship.
It is important to recognize that sharing the gospel can take many forms. While some may be called to preach in public squares or travel to distant lands, others may witness through personal relationships, acts of kindness, or living a life that reflects Christ's love and truth. The key is faithfulness to the opportunities God provides, whether they are grand or seemingly small.
In conclusion, while the failure to share the gospel can indeed be considered a sin of omission, it is essential to approach this issue with grace and understanding. God calls us to be His witnesses, and He equips us for this task. As believers, we are to be motivated by love for God and compassion for others, seeking to share the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed. Let us be faithful to the Great Commission, trusting in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us in this vital mission.
