When pastors think about evangelism, we tend to assume our primary role is to equip others to evangelize, or to evangelize from the pulpit. While those roles are important, I knew I needed to do more.

Paul told Timothy, "Do the work of an evangelist" (2 Tim. 4:5). Paul is saying that we leaders need to engage unbelievers, and I am challenged by that mandate. Sure, I do that from the pulpit, but all church members have incredible opportunities to share the gospel in their community and workplace. I have those opportunities, too—but I had to do something to find them and to connect with folks far from God.

Taking to the streets

So what do I do? I hit the streets. I usually go over to a local community college or to a nearby train station. I just stand in an open area and hand out a little tract I wrote called "My Story." And that's exactly what it is: the account of God's good work in my life (see sidebar). It's printed on a small card that resembles a birthday invitation. It's non-threatening, ...