EDITORIAL
Leading Mission | Andy Cook
Standing on the steps of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Hall in 1980, Graham asked his audience a pivotal question: How do we equip the church to meet this moment?
As I look ahead to the next decade, I see three key trends shaping church outreach. If you’re a ministry leader, you’ve likely already felt their impact—each one bringing both challenges and opportunities. How we respond today will shape the future of evangelism. Let’s explore and engage these trends together.
1. We Should Invite Believers Off the Sidelines.
Many Christians want to share their faith but feel unequipped, and the word “evangelism” often feels intimidating. According to Barna, only 2 out of 5 churchgoers feel ready to engage in spiritual conversations—a decline from previous years. Even more concerning, in 1993, 89% of Christians believed sharing their faith was their personal responsibility, but by 2018, that number had dropped to 64%.
This shift is significant. Many in our congregations no longer see evangelism as central to their faith. As pastors, we can’t assume people naturally know how to share the gospel—we need to equip, model and encourage them through simple training and practical examples. More than ever, we must reignite a passion for the Great Commission. Evangelism isn’t just for a select few; it’s a calling for every follower of Christ. Let’s help our churches embrace this mission with confidence and joy.
2. Evangelism Is a Calling for All and a Skill We Can Grow.
You’re not alone if you find it hard to mobilize your congregation for evangelism. Barna’s latest Open Generation research found that only 12% of pastors feel they effectively encourage believers to share their faith. The good news? Evangelism is a skill that can be discipled. Like a child learning to walk, Christians may stumble, but they need encouragement to get back up and keep trying. Sharing both our successes and failures in evangelism can inspire others to step out in faith.
3. Connecting Young People to Jesus and the Church Is Important.
The number of religiously unaffiliated young adults (18–29) has risen from 10% in 1986 to 38% today (Pew Research). Yet, many are spiritually open and searching for community. As church leaders, we have a powerful opportunity to invite them into the loving family of God—not just by engaging them intellectually but by offering authentic relationships and belonging.
A Reason for Optimism
None of these trends are irreversible. People are searching for meaning, hope, and purpose, and we, the Church, have the opportunity to step in with authentic relationships, truth, compassion and a bold witness for Christ.
If we make the case for evangelism, equip believers and encourage a culture of outreach while leaning in with wisdom, prayer and intentionality, we can see a renewed passion for the gospel in our churches and beyond.
Now is a time to step forward in faith and boldness. Sharing the gospel is a wonderful adventure for every believer to engage with the Holy Spirit. I’ve never regretted the moments when God asked me to start a conversation, ask a question and talk about Christ. We can do this, trusting God is at work, moving in hearts and communities. Let’s embrace this moment and move forward together.