Ah, street evangelism. Just the phrase can stir up a lot of different emotions depending on who you ask. Some picture an old bloke with a megaphone shouting about fire and brimstone, while others think of a gentle chat with a stranger over coffee. So, is it still worth doing in our modern Aussie culture where people are more glued to their phones than ever? Is street evangelism still effective today?
The Gospel Still Works… Even at KFC
Let’s be real. The idea of walking up to strangers can feel awkward, outdated, and maybe even a bit pushy. But here’s the thing — when done with love and sensitivity, street evangelism still works. It’s not about standing on a soapbox or arguing someone into the Kingdom; it’s about listening to the Holy Spirit and meeting people where they’re at.
Karen Workentin, who’s spent nearly 30 years doing this across Australia, calls it “supernatural soul winning”. It’s all about simple, Spirit-led conversations. Picture this: Karen and her team sitting in a food court, quietly praying and asking God, “Who’s ready today?” They’re not out to create a scene; they’re out to create a moment. And moments matter.
It’s Not Just for the ‘Evangelists’
One of the biggest myths is that street evangelism is only for the bold, loud evangelists out there. Nope. Anyone can do it when they tune into God’s promptings. The Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:5, “Do the work of an evangelist.” It doesn’t say be an evangelist, but do the work. That means all believers can share Jesus naturally and relationally.
Karen tells stories where people simply respond to gentle questions like, “Do you know how to get to heaven?” and end up encountering Jesus right there in a food court or shopping centre. It’s less about the method and more about the heart behind it — kindness, respect, and following the Holy Spirit’s nudge.
The Digital World Hasn’t Replaced Face-to-Face
Sure, we’ve got Instagram reels and TikToks preaching the Gospel, but there’s something irreplaceable about a real-life conversation. Face-to-face moments still carry a power that digital can’t fully replicate. After all, Jesus didn’t Zoom into people’s lives; He met them at wells, along roads, and in marketplaces.
Final Thoughts
So, is street evangelism still effective today? Absolutely — when done with love, humility, and a listening ear. It’s not about forcing a message, but being available when God is ready to move. In the end, the Gospel still changes lives, whether it’s shared in a church, online, or over a bucket of chips at KFC.
Listen to the full conversation of Karen Workentin on 👉 street evangelism 👈!
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