What happens after someone clicks on a Christian video, asks a question about Jesus or responds to the gospel online? Is that where evangelism ends? Or could it be the beginning of something much bigger?
Digital evangelism is reaching people around the world in ways that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. But while views,
clicks and online responses can tell us how many people we’re reaching, they don’t necessarily tell us what’s happening in someone’s journey towards Jesus.
In this episode of The Win Win Evangelism Podcast, Tina Waldrom speaks with Nick Runyon from Media Impact International, a global non-profit helping ministries use digital media to share the gospel and connect people with Christian community. Nick introduces the idea of “the gospel as a long walk”, challenging us to think beyond someone’s first encounter with Jesus and consider how genuine relationships and ongoing discipleship help people grow in their faith.
From turning anonymous online viewers into meaningful conversations to helping people connect with local churches, Nick shares practical insights into what happens after someone responds to digital evangelism. He explores why trust matters, how churches can create simple next steps for people exploring Christianity, and why AI should support ministry rather than replace human connection. You’ll also discover how responding to criticism with kindness and grace can become a powerful witness to those watching online.
IN THIS EPISODE
- The concept of the gospel as a long walk and its implications for digital evangelism
- How digital tools can catalyze and grow relationships for faith
- The role of AI in answering questions and managing online inquiries
- Strategies for moving online contacts into local church communities
- Challenges and opportunities in digital evangelism in different cultural contexts
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 – Introduction
04:16 – The gospel as a long walk and its significance for digital evangelism
08:06 – Transitioning online contacts to local Christian communities
13:07 – The role of AI in answering questions and managing inquiries
17:42 – Challenges in moving online contacts into faith communities
23:52 – Final thoughts and encouragement for digital evangelism
WATCH THE EPISODE
Watch the short video
Discipleship Happens in the Context of Relationship
MEET NICK RUNYON
Nick Runyon is a leader in digital evangelism with nearly 15 years of experience helping Christian ministries use media and technology to share the gospel. Through his work with Media Impact International (MII), a global non-profit organisation, Nick helps churches and ministries turn online engagement into meaningful relationships, Christian community and ongoing discipleship.
Connect with Nick and Media Impact International:
Media Impact International Website
Media Impact International YouTube
Media Impact International Facebook
Media Impact International Instagram
The Digital Media Podcast
Nick Runyon LinkedIn
OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOY
Digital Evangelism: How Ryan from NeedGod.net Is Reaching 1.3 Million+ People Online
Natchi Lazarus: Can AI Help Us Share Jesus or Evangelise, Without Replacing the Human?
Reaching Gamers for Christ: Theos Ministry Story
AI for Christians: Why AI Makes the Gospel More Relevant Than Ever
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Discussion Questions
1. Are we treating evangelism as a one-time conversation or a lifelong journey?
How does thinking about the gospel as a long walk change the way we approach evangelism? Think of someone you’ve previously spoken to about Jesus. What practical step could you take to encourage them to continue exploring faith?
Read: Matthew 28:19-20; Colossians 2:6-7
2. What happens after someone responds to the gospel?
Why is it important to think beyond someone’s first response to the gospel? Does your church or ministry have a clear way of helping someone who expresses an interest in Jesus take their next step?
Read: Acts 2:41-42; 1 Thessalonians 2:8
3. Are we answering people’s questions or genuinely listening to their needs?
Why do Christians sometimes rush to provide answers instead of taking time to understand someone’s situation? How could asking better questions help you have more meaningful conversations about Jesus?
Read: James 1:19; Proverbs 20:5
4. Are we creating opportunities for people to move from watching to participating?
How can churches make it easier for people who watch their content online to connect with real Christians? Are there people engaging with your church or ministry online who may be interested in faith but don’t know how to take the next step?
Read: Romans 12:13; Hebrews 10:24–25
5. Are we using technology to build relationships or replace them?
What are the benefits and risks of using AI in evangelism? Are there ways technology could help you spend less time on administration and more time connecting with people?
Read: 1 Thessalonians 2:8; Philippians 2:4
6. How can we help someone move from an online conversation into Christian community?
What might make someone hesitant to visit a church after exploring Christianity online? How welcoming and accessible is your church to someone who has never attended before?
Read: Acts 2:46–47; Romans 15:7
7. Could the way you respond to criticism become an opportunity for evangelism?
How do you usually respond when someone challenges or criticises Christianity online? What might a non-Christian learn about Jesus by observing the way you respond to disagreement?
Read: Colossians 4:5–6; 1 Peter 3:15–16; Proverbs 15:1
