Contents
Personal Philosophy of Evangelism.............................................................................................2
Understanding Pluralism, Secularism and Contextualization.............................................2
Incarnational Ministry.........................................................................................................3
Authenticity, Integrity, and Scripturally Sound...................................................................4
Conclusion......................................................................................................................................4
Bibliography...................................................................................................................................6
ii
1
Christians are called to be the salt and light of the world, Jesus instructs his disciples, “let
your light shine before others, so3that3they may see your good works and3give glory to your
Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:13-16, English Standard Version). Christian evangelism is the
practice of sharing and spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ, with the ultimate goal of leading
others to faith in him and bringing glory to God.1 Philisophically, it encompasses a
comprehensive set of principles, values, and strategies that inform and guide the practice of
sharing faith. Evangelism plays a crucial role in chaplain ministry, especially when navigating
diverse environments and often difficult or tragic circumstances. A philosophy of evangelism
that is centered around embracing the incarnational aspect of ministry is imperative to build upon
as a future healthcare chaplain. Ideally, one which is based on the belief that effective
evangelism involves embodying the love and truth exemplified by Christ’s message, witness, and
relationships.
The purpose of this paper is to provide a personal philosophy of evangelism that will
withstand the barriers often presented in pluralistic and secular settings as a healthcare chaplain.
It is not just sharing a message but about living out the transformative power of the gospel in a
way that resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Effective chaplain ministry in
pluralistic environments requires reflection on the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ,
supported by a personal theology that aligns with the true nature of God and his purposes. Thus,
to effectively demonstrate the incarnational aspect of evangelical ministry as a healthcare
chaplain, it is important to live faithfully and actively engage in the spiritual care of all
individuals within my environment, by way of remaining deeply rooted in the biblical
1 Dave Earley, “The Real Business of Life,” in Evangelism Is…How to Share Jesus with Passion and
Confidence (Nashville, TN: B&H Academic, 2010), 14. “Ultimately God gets the most glory, and we find the
deepest fulfillment when our lives are concentrated on ‘the salvation of souls.’ God is glorified as we lead others to
also become God glorifiers.”
2
foundations of a personal theology, and that points to the redemptive work of Christ on the cross,
extending salvation to all who embrace it.
Personal Philosophy of Evangelism
Understanding Pluralism, Secularism and Contextualization
In pluralistic and secular chaplain ministry settings, it is essential to recognize and respect
diverse beliefs and worldviews. This requires acknowledging the presence of different faith
traditions and engaging in meaningful interfaith dialogue. Scripture reminds us to be quick to
listen, slow to speak (James 1:19), emphasizing the importance of understanding and
empathizing with others before sharing our personal beliefs. By fostering an atmosphere of
respect and open-mindedness, we create space for genuine conversations about faith. Healthcare
chaplains have a responsibility to remain obedient to God’s purpose in evangelism despite
diverse environments. In chapter two, “The Real Business in Life,” Dave Earley writes, “No
matter where you may be employed at the time, the real business of life is glorifying God
through the salvation of souls.”2
Moreover, effective evangelism in pluralistic and secular environments requires
contextualization. This means presenting the gospel message in a way that is relevant and
relatable to the specific cultural, social, and intellectual context of the individuals we engage
with. Just as the apostle Paul adapted his message to different audiences (1 Cor. 9:19-23), I must
seek to understand the unique needs and perspectives of those I minister to. By demonstrating
sensitivity and cultural awareness, by way of the power and leading of the Holy Spirit, I can
bridge the gap between different worldviews and effectively communicate the truths of the
gospel. In Share Jesus without Fear, William Faye and Linda Evans Shepherd ask, “What kind
2 Dave Earley, “The Real Business of Life,” in Evangelism Is…How to Share Jesus with Passion and
Confidence (Nashville, TN: B&H Academic, 2010), 14.
3
of encounters does the Holy Spirit use most often to produce fruit? He uses a witness whose
heart is motivated by love.”3 As a chaplain, my love should seek to reflect understanding.
Incarnational Ministry
In conception of the incarnation, God took on human form in order to be present among
us (Matt. 1:23, John 1:14). This profound act enabled him to meet us in our individual contexts
and empathize with our unique needs (2 Cor. 1:3-4). Consequently, incarnational ministry can be
defined as actively engaging with those around us. Embracing the incarnational aspect of
ministry is to follow the example of Jesus Christ, being present in the joys and sufferings others
experience, and providing comfort and hope (Rom. 12:15, Gal. 6:2). In pluralistic and secular
settings, this involves demonstrating love, compassion, and humility through our actions. Caring
for the spiritual and emotional well-being of those we serve, reflects Jesus, and thus, it is
possible to build trust and create opportunities for meaningful conversations about faith and life-
giving relationships (Mark 16:17-18; John 13:34, 14:12; Heb. 10:24, James 1:25). Will Metzger
writes on “the responsibility to step out in faith. . . It is not about feeling comfortable in
witnessing, but about recognizing God’s daily providence in bringing each person across our
path.”4 My life should reflect the values and teachings of Christ, showing others the
transformative power of the gospel through both words and actions (1 Cor. 10:31-33).
Authenticity, Integrity, and Scripturally Sound
Maintaining authenticity and integrity in evangelism is crucial. Metzger writes that there
is “A need to restore a connection between biblical knowledge about evangelism and the actions
3 William Fay and Linda Evans Shepherd, Share Jesus without Fear (Nashville: Broadman & Holman
Publishers, 1999), 12.
4 Will Metzger, Tell the Truth: The Whole Gospel Wholly by Grace Communicated Truthfully Lovingly,
4th ed. (Westmont, IL: IVP Books, 2012), 213.
4
that result from and are compatible with that knowledge. Action should be the fruit of sound
doctrine.”5 Our words and actions should align with the message we share, bearing fruit through
the power of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23), and as a result of abiding in Christ (John 15:5). By
living out our faith consistently and transparently, we can demonstrate the transformative power
of the gospel and invite others to explore is truths. This requires ongoing study (Josh. 1:8; Ps.
1:2, 19:14; ), self-reflection (Lam. 3:40; 2 Cor. 13:5) and spiritual maturity (Heb. 4:12, 6:1; 2
Pet. 3:18) as well as the willingness to admit my own imperfections and learn from others.
According to D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, “We all need to reexamine our evangelism to make sure
that we do not simply talk around the gospel or that we are so interested in applying the gospel
(getting results) that we slight the theological content, or major on the felt needs of people.”6 It is
through authentic and integral practices that we build credibility and trust, enabling us to
effectively share the love, grace, and mercy of Christ.
Conclusion
In pluralistic and secular chaplain ministry settings, evangelism should be approached
with love, sensitivity, respect, and a deep commitment to incarnational ministry. By
understanding these diverse environments and difficult circumstances, contextualizing the gospel
message, embracing the incarnational aspect of ministry, and embodying authenticity and
integrity, I can effectively share the love and truth of Christ in a manner that resonates with
others. The goal is not simply to convey information, but to invite others into a transformation
and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Through the Holy Spirit’s leading, embodying the
teachings of Christ, being rooted in a sound biblical theology, and fostering trust through
5 Metzger, Tell the Truth, 210.
6 D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, The Presentation of the Gospel (London: Inter-Varsity Fellowship, 1949), 3.
5
meaningful relationships, I aim to provide unwavering support, guidance, and the transformative
message of hope to all those I serve.
Bibliography
Earley, Dave. “The Real Business of Life.” In Evangelism Is… How to Share Jesus with Passion
and Confidence. Nashville, TN: B&H Academic, 2010.
Fay, William, and Linda Evans Shepherd. Share Jesus without Fear. Nashville: Broadman &
Holman Publishers, 1999.
