RevDeac06
OGBoards Chaplain
It does seem that it's important then, to make a distinction between evangelism and proselytism, the first being closer to spreading good news, and the latter being more related to actual conversion. So some of the passages that deal with both evangelism and proselytism worth looking into:
Matthew 28:19
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Colossians 4:5-6 (seasoned with salt?)
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Ephesians 6:19-20 (ambassador in chains?)
Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Peter 3:15
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...
Matthew: That's the go-to passage. The "therefore" is important to consider, as it is referring to all authority being given to Jesus. Disciple is a word that means student, so fairly redundant with "teach them..." To me, baptism is about initiation into the KoG, so he's saying "bring them into this reality of the good news."
Col: Sort of goes to my earlier point, be attractive, do what you're supposed to do so that others will know the grace of God through out. More about evangelism in lifestyle than winning converts through proselytizing. I'm at home, so don't have many resources here (they're in my office), but salt was very valuable at the time, sometimes even was a form of payment. So perhaps the sense is "let your conversation be worth something, not just idol chatter."
Eph: Referring to his imprisonments. Mystery of the gospel= it's a stumbling block that someone a man was executed and yet he's still the messiah.
Peter: Awesome passage, and I think one of the most important for Christians because it means that you're taking your discipleship (study/prayer/relationship with God) seriously if you're able to give someone an accounting of the hope that is in you. And again, not conversion by the sword, do it with gentleness and respect.