I watched with frustration and disappointment as a man on the subway shouted in broken English that Jesus Christ was the only way. He raised his voice as if preaching to a crowd that had not chosen to listen. Most people politely ignored him; a few offered exasperated looks. This can’t be what Jesus expects of us, I thought. I’m sure the man had good intentions and a genuine passion for Jesus, but are we really called to assault people with the gospel as if we’re selling something?

There are hundreds of books on evangelism—systems that promise results and claim anyone can do it, even the shy. Too often it feels like used-car salesmanship, turning people into prospects instead of human beings. So what does the New Testament actually say about evangelism? Surprisingly, almost nothing. Yes, there is the gift of the evangelist, and the word itself simply means “good news.” But nowhere are we commanded to “share our faith” in the way we often imagine.

That realization can be a relief, especially for introverts, new believers, or anyone intimidated by the idea of evangelism. Much of the fear comes from what we imagine it must look like—street corners, subway sermons, memorized scripts, or perfectly delivered arguments. So let’s close that mental book and open Scripture instead. What does Jesus actually say?

Jesus tells His disciples: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always” (Matthew 28:18–20).

Many focus on the command to “go,” and rightly so. But before the going comes authority. Because all power belongs to Jesus, we do not need to be anxious or intimidated. He who sends us also empowers us.

Then comes something important: Jesus says, “make disciples, ” not “make converts” or “win arguments.” We are not called to persuade people by charisma or knowledge, but to help form disciples—His disciples, not ours. He does not want people shaped into our image. This means we must understand what it means to be disciples ourselves and actively follow Him. A careful reading of Matthew 6–8 and Luke 9 makes that clear.

Jesus continues: “Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you.” That means we need to know what He taught in order to pass it on. I find His way far better than my imagination. There is nothing wrong with tracts or bold proclamation if God calls you to that, but not everyone has the gift of evangelism. Still, everyone has the same command.

Make disciples, teach what Jesus taught you. Simple—but not easy. Yet it is not fake, not terrifying, and not results-driven. We obey; He provides the power and the outcome. And that is wonderfully freeing.