53 Important Bible Verses About Evangelism

Every believer is called to share the good news of Jesus Christ, and these Bible verses about evangelism provide powerful encouragement and guidance for fulfilling the Great Commission. Whether you're new to sharing your faith or looking for fresh motivation, Scripture offers everything you need to step out boldly in love.

Evangelism isn't reserved for pastors, church leaders, or those with a specific calling to missions. According to Matthew 28:18–20, God expects every born-again Christian to preach the gospel of Christ to non-believers. With over 2 billion Christians and millions of churches worldwide, surprisingly few believers make evangelism a regular part of their lives.

When we evangelize, people hear the good news, repent, and are saved from perishing — which is God's heart and plan for humanity. Through evangelism, those who have never heard the gospel come to know the truth. And just as someone once shared the gospel with us, we are called to do the same for others. As you meditate on these verses, consider pairing them with daily Christian meditation practices that keep your heart prepared and your spirit sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading.

Prayer for Evangelists

Lord, I pray that you will charge me to reach out to unbelievers, sowing seeds and reaping as guided by your Holy Spirit. As a worker in your field, I present myself ready to harvest, and may your Holy Spirit show me the things to say. Lead me to where you have called. This I pray in faith. Amen.

Below you'll find 53 Bible verses about evangelism, winning souls, and going out on missions. Each verse is paired with commentary to help you understand its context and apply it to your own calling to share the gospel.

Old Testament Bible Verses About Evangelism

God's desire for all nations to know Him didn't begin in the New Testament. Throughout the Old Testament, we see God calling His people to declare His name and His mighty works among the nations.

1. Psalms 105:1 KJV

O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.

In the Old Testament, God sets out to show that He is above all gods. He creates Israel so that the people may make His name and great works known to all nations.

2. Proverbs 11:30 KJV

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

At the time of this Proverb, "saving lives" was associated with saving people from evil paths that led to destruction. In light of the gospel, it takes up a new form where the righteous person's produce is saving lives. This verse reminds us that soul-winning is not just noble — it is wise in God's eyes.

3. Isaiah 6:8 KJV

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.

This chapter tells of the prophet seeing a vision of God in His throne room. Overwhelmed by God's holiness, Isaiah presented himself to carry God's message. His willingness to answer God's call is a model for every believer who desires to share the gospel.

4. Isaiah 12:4 KJV

And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted.

The book of Isaiah works for both the Old and New Testament timeline. Its immediate audience is Judah, but it also points to the Messiah who will save Israel and all of humanity.

5. Isaiah 45:22 KJV

Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.

In this chapter, God directs His words to the surrounding nations, calling them to abandon the worship of idols and instead turn to Him, for He alone is the able God. This verse powerfully demonstrates that God's invitation to salvation has always been global in scope.

6. Ezekiel 3:17-19 KJV

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

In this Scripture, God tasks prophet Ezekiel to be a "watchman" for Judah. By doing so, he would communicate God's words and warnings without fail. The severity of the task is made known to him when God points out that by failing to share His warnings for Judah's wickedness, he would also share in the aftermath. This passage underscores the urgent responsibility we carry as believers to warn others.

7. Ezekiel 38:23 KJV

Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the Lord.

God stresses to Ezekiel that He wants to use both Israel and the prophets to communicate how awesome He is to all nations. God's desire has always been for every nation to know Him.

8. Malachi 1:11 KJV

For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts.

Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, continues to reiterate God's desire to be known among all nations. Even before the New Testament era, God declared that His name would be great from east to west.

9. Daniel 12:3 KJV

And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

God regards His people like stars radiating light, while those that turn others to righteousness shine even brighter. This is a beautiful picture of the eternal reward that awaits those who faithfully share the gospel.

10. Proverbs 24:11 KJV

If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain

Proverbs 24:11 could mean saving people that are heading toward death because of their spiritual and moral blindness. It serves as a solemn reminder that silence in the face of others' spiritual peril is not an option for the believer.

11. Psalms 73:28 KJV

But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.

These were Asaph's words declaring that being in the house of God caused him to develop a passion for making known God's works. Drawing near to God naturally fuels a desire to share His goodness with the world.

Bible Verses About Evangelism From the Gospels

The Gospels record Jesus' own words and example when it comes to evangelism. From the Sermon on the Mount to the Great Commission, Jesus made it clear that spreading the good news was central to His mission — and ours. As you reflect on these verses, consider incorporating faith-building Scripture meditation into your daily routine to strengthen your confidence in sharing the gospel.

12. Matthew 5:15-16 KJV

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

In this passage, Jesus reminds His disciples that He did not want them to hide the truth they had received. Just as a candle is placed on a stand to illuminate a room, believers are meant to shine brightly so others may see and glorify God.

13. Matthew 9:37-38 KJV

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

In this passage, Jesus gave His disciples a glimpse of the world full of pain and heartbreak. This reality forms the foundation for the gospel to offer good news to hurting people. The call to pray for more laborers is as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago.

14. Matthew 10:7-14 KJV

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. And when ye come into an house, salute it. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.

When Jesus sent His disciples out to evangelize, they had a clear message to preach and the power of God to back it up. This commissioning shows that evangelism involves both proclamation and demonstration of God's kingdom.

15. Matthew 11:28 KJV

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

The gospel's benefits aren't confined to the sweet by-and-by. There is immediate relief to the weary and broken. This verse is one of the most comforting invitations in all of Scripture and is a powerful verse to share when evangelizing to those who are hurting.

16. Matthew 28:19-20 KJV

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

These were Jesus' parting words — the Great Commission — that task every believer to win people to Christ and help them mature in grace and truth. This is the foundational verse for all Christian evangelism and missions.

17. Matthew 7:21-23 KJV

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

In this passage, Jesus was warning people who speak or say things about Jesus yet do not mean it, or do so merely to fulfill a religious duty. True evangelism flows from a genuine relationship with Christ, not empty religious activity.

18. Mark 16:16 KJV

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

This Scripture paints a sobering picture of the gravity of not being saved and why we should prioritize evangelism. The eternal consequences of unbelief are real, and this verse compels us to share the gospel urgently.

19. Luke 4:18-19 KJV

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

Jesus was reading from Isaiah 61:1-2 to show that He was the Messiah who had been prophesied long ago. His mission statement is also a blueprint for our evangelism — reaching the poor, the brokenhearted, and the captive with the liberating power of the gospel.

20. Luke 12:8 KJV

Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God

Here is another powerful incentive for proclaiming the gospel to the world: Jesus will acknowledge us before God's angels. What a glorious reward for those who boldly confess His name.

21. Luke 12:11-12 KJV

And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.

Jesus tells His disciples of the times to come when it would be dangerous to share the gospel. He encourages them that they should not worry about what to say, for the Holy Spirit will work on their behalf. This promise stands for every believer who steps out in faith to evangelize.

22. Luke 19:10 KJV

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Luke 19:10 was Jesus' explanation of why He had come to Zacchaeus, who was deemed a notorious sinner. Jesus' mission to seek the lost is the very heart of evangelism and the model for every believer.

23. Luke 24:47 KJV

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

The Scriptures had foretold that the preaching of the gospel would begin in Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:3, Joel 2:32) and spread to the ends of the earth. This global vision for evangelism continues to unfold today.

24. John 3:16-17 KJV

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

The gospel is a message of God's extraordinary love for humanity — a love that drove Him to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we might be reconciled to Him. This is perhaps the most well-known verse in all of Scripture and the cornerstone of every evangelistic message. For more on this incredible love, explore our guide to Bible verses about God's love.

25. John 4:36-38 KJV

And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

John the Baptist and Jesus were responsible for sowing the seeds, presenting the disciples with the chance to reap. This verse teaches us that evangelism is a team effort — some plant, some water, and some harvest. Every role matters.

26. John 8:24 KJV

I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.

The title "I am" is Jesus' claim to deity, and He was exhorting the Pharisees that if they wanted to be saved from perishing in their sins, they must believe in Him. This verse highlights the exclusivity of the gospel message and the urgency of belief.

27. John 13:35 KJV

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

The gospel's most significant fruit — love — is what sets Christianity apart from other philosophies and religions and proves its reality and value. Our love for one another is itself a powerful form of evangelism.

Bible Verses About Evangelism From the Book of Acts

The book of Acts is the story of the early church's explosive growth through evangelism. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the first believers turned the world upside down with the gospel. These verses capture the passion and power that fueled their mission.

28. Acts 1:8 KJV

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Jesus was telling of the future and of the power that would come through the Holy Spirit. This power would supercharge the disciples' message as they spread the gospel to all the earth. Acts 1:8 serves as the roadmap for evangelism — starting locally and expanding globally.

29. Acts 2:38 KJV

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

This verse was Peter's response to the crowd's question, "What shall we do?" On the day of Pentecost, Peter boldly outlined the steps to salvation — repentance and baptism — and three thousand souls were added to the church that day.

30. Acts 13:47 KJV

For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.

The first-century Jews could not wrap their heads around the gospel extending beyond Israel, yet God always insisted that it was through them that all nations would be blessed. This verse confirms that God's plan for evangelism was always global.

31. Acts 20:24 KJV

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

The urgency and passion that drove Paul to share the gospel should inspire and charge us to reach out to those around us. Paul counted his life as nothing compared to the importance of testifying about God's grace.

32. Acts 21:8 KJV

And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Cæsarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.

Once Philip was done evangelizing to the Ethiopian eunuch, he continued preaching in the coastal region, eventually settling in Caesarea. Philip's example shows that evangelism is a lifestyle, not a one-time event.

Evangelism Bible Verses From Paul's Epistles

The apostle Paul's letters to the early churches are filled with instruction, encouragement, and theology related to evangelism. His life was a living testimony to the power of the gospel, and his writings continue to guide believers in their mission to share Christ with the world.

33. Romans 1:16 KJV

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Our attempts at sharing the gospel might make us the center of ridicule, rough treatment, or mockery. However, we should not be discouraged because the gospel is the very power of God for salvation. If you ever struggle with fear or anxiety about sharing your faith, find encouragement in these prayers for anxiety and peace.

34. Romans 6:23 KJV

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

If it weren't for the gospel, we would have received our wages as people of the world. However, the gospel has saved us from this predicament, and we get to share the gift of everlasting life with everyone around us.

35. Romans 10:10-17 KJV

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

This is one of the most powerful passages on evangelism in the entire Bible. Though God could place the gospel in every person's heart directly, He chooses not to — because He wants to involve us in His redemptive plan. "Faith cometh by hearing" means that someone must speak the Word for others to believe.

36. Romans 15:13 KJV

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

This prayer and blessing are especially appropriate for evangelists, because when these blessings — joy, peace, and hope — come upon us, we are empowered to live in unity and boldly share Christ with others.

37. 1 Corinthians 1:17 KJV

For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

For Paul, evangelizing was more critical than baptizing, though he was not against baptism. His primary concern was that the message of the cross would not be diluted by human eloquence or philosophy.

38. 1 Corinthians 2:1-2 KJV

And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.

Paul may come across as an intelligent defender of the gospel, yet it is encouraging to see that he did not lean on his eloquence or arguments. Instead, he relied on presenting the simple message of Christ and Him crucified. This reminds us that effective evangelism doesn't require impressive speeches — just a faithful presentation of the gospel.

39. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 KJV

I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.

Paul was encouraging the church that their role in the harvest was vital, whether they got to see the crop or not. Some plant seeds, some water, but it is always God who gives the increase. This truth should free us from the pressure of feeling like we must "close the deal" in every evangelistic encounter.

40. 1 Corinthians 9:16 KJV

For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

For Paul, evangelism was not a matter of personal ambition or choice — it was a divine necessity laid upon him. This urgency should resonate with every believer who understands the weight of the gospel.

41. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 KJV

For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.

Paul shows that he was sensitive to everyone's traditions and experiences and did not wish to insult or confuse them before preaching the gospel. This is a masterclass in cultural sensitivity and meeting people where they are — a vital principle for effective evangelism in any era.

42. 1 Corinthians 16:7-9 KJV

For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

In this passage, Paul shows that the Spirit led him to grounds that required his evangelism, even when he would have preferred otherwise. Open doors for the gospel often come with opposition, but that should never deter us from walking through them.

43. 2 Corinthians 5:20 KJV

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

To fulfill His plan of the world getting reconciled to Him, God urges the church — His ambassadors and diplomats — to represent Him in foreign territory. Every believer is an ambassador of Christ in their workplace, neighborhood, and community.

44. Galatians 2:7-9 KJV

But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

The early church was faced with this challenge: Peter felt called to minister to the Jews and found it hard to reconcile with Paul's calling to minister to the Gentiles. This example shows that God may call us to specific work that may not be universal to others. Every evangelistic calling is valid and valuable.

45. Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Paul reminded the church at Ephesus that salvation was not earned through their works but was God's gift freely given so that no one should boast. Furthermore, nobody should boast when they win people to Christ, as it is ultimately God's work and grace.

46. [Colossians 1:28-29 K