In many circles, evangelism begins with Genesis 3, with sin, brokenness, and separation from God. The approach is valid, but I would like to challenge you on the starting point for evangelism. When we open with, “You are a sinner in need of saving,” we bypass the foundational truth of Scripture’s opening movement, that we were made in the image of God, for relationship, purpose, and flourishing. For those in positions of leadership and influence, this reframed approach is not only theologically faithful, but it is strategically wise.

In Colossians 3:11, Paul speaks of a mix of Jew, Gentile, free man, and slave. In Christ, there is no difference. There is unity within the body of these wide ranges of cultural mixes. But how well do you think these believers from these diverse backgrounds really unify in Christ?