1 Timothy 4:12-16

Introduction:

1. The third group of subordinates operating under Christ is the evangelists.

2. 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus offer most of the pertinent information we need.

Discussion:

I. Key Terms

A. Two terms are central to this discussion:

1. Keruka: “a herald or messenger…who conveyed the official messages of kings, magistrates, princes, etc., gave a public summons or demand…in the NT, God’s ambassador… proclaimer of the divine word” (Thayer; Romans 10:14; 1 Timothy 2:7; 2 Timothy 1:11; 2 Peter 2:5)

2. Euangellistes: “bring good news, announce good news; proclaim the divine message of salvation, proclaim the gospel (Mounce): related to the term gospel (euangellion) and preach/preaching (euangellidzo)

B. In short, evangelists herald the edicts and good news of King Jesus.

II. Their Function

A. All Christians are evangelists broadly speaking (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 8:4).

B. But evangelists have a specific role (Acts 21:8; Ephesians 4:11; 2 Timothy 4:5).

1. Preach to win new converts (Acts 8:5-13, 26-39; Romans 10:14-17)

2. Help congregations get fully organized (Titus 1:5)

3. Assist in the general care of the congregation (1 Timothy 5-6)

4. Confront error (1 Timothy 1:3-11, 18-20; 4:1-8; 2 Timothy 2:25; 4:1-5; Titus 2:15)

5. Promote truth (1 Timothy 4:13-16; 2 Timothy 2:2; 4:1-5; Titus 2:1-6)

6. This is all part of equipping the saints to minister (Ephesians 4:11ff)

C. Due to the scope of these responsibilities, authority was granted for evangelists to earn their living from preaching (1 Corinthians 9:9-14; Galatians 6:6).

III. Their Character

A. For better or worse, evangelists influence the spiritual lives of many.

B. For this, demands for exemplary faithfulness saturate these letters (1 Timothy 4:12, 16; 5:22; 6:11-14; 2 Timothy 1:13; 2:15; Titus 2:7-8).

C. They must be courageous (1 Timothy 4:12; 2 Timothy 4:2-5; Titus 1:13; 2:15).

D. Pure love must drive it all (Matthew 22:36-40; 1 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:24-26).

Conclusion:

1. These truths highlight the importance of the proclamation, not the proclaimer.

2. The responsibility is massive (James 3:1ff; 1 Timothy 4:16).

3. May we focus attention on the King and His message rather than His herald.