The greatest hinderance in doing personal work and evangelism is desire. The same can be said of any number of tasks or duties--if one has little or no desire to do it, any effort will result in failure. On the other hand, when one has a great desire to teach the gospel to those lost in sin, nothing will hold us back. Last week, we noted why evangelism and personal work is important. This week, we begin to examine the how of personal evangelism.

Many Christians have made or thought the following statement, "I would do more personal work, but I don't know enough about the Bible." Knowledge of the Bible is not only important when doing personal evangelism, that same knowledge will compel one to do personal work. Lack of knowledge is a two-edged sword--it will keep me from winning souls for Christ, but it will also cause me to lose my own soul. The only remedy for a lack of knowledge is diligent study (2 Tim. 2:15). There are no shortcuts in learning the word of God. However, a vast wealth of Bible knowledge is not necessary to do personal work. Think for a moment; how much Bible did you know when you obeyed the gospel? Any person who knows enough to obey the gospel knows enough to teach others what to do in order to be saved.

Sometimes, not being an "expert" in the scriptures can be used to your advantage. People often raise their defenses when approached by a preacher, but are much more likely to study with someone who is less "intimidating." We must use our kinships, friendships, and other associations to prepare people to receive the gospel of Christ.

The very practice of personal work will increase one's Bible knowledge. Experience builds proficiency. Do not wait until you think you can be an effective presonal worker. Does one take up woodcarving because he is already an outstanding craftsman? Does one expect to sit at the piano for the first time and recreate the works of Chopin? If we wait until we are experts before venturing into an activity, we will never do anything!

God demands the same of His children in the matter of winning souls. He expects us to improve as we evangelize, not evangelize after we feel we are competent. Do I really want to stand before the judgement seat of Christ and say, "Lord, I would've taught others, but I didn't know enough about the Bible to be an effective evangelist." Our Lord might rightfully reply, "What did you lack? I preserved for you My Word! It is the power of my Father unto salvation, not your own ability. Did you lack the time? Shall I show you of the countless hours you spent pursuing the desires of the flesh? The time spent in front of the television? My child, you had the time; you just didn't appreciate what was given you. You took My love and My grace for granted. You are a lazy and unprofitable servant! Depart from Me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels!"

Friend, can you find the time to do personal work?

TC