Preach the Gospel at All Times

I heard it again a few weeks ago. I have to admit, I get it, but I don’t agree with it in any way. 

“Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.” The quote is famously attributed to Francis of Assisi. At it’s heart is the concept that our actions must be greater than our words or our words will be meaningless. But to be honest with you - I cringe every time I hear that sentence. It is a powerful one, BUT, it’s wrong at its base. 

“Preach the gospel…” But it IS necessary, AND you MUST use words. 

Do not allow your work of your words to be degenerated, disposed of, or devalued. The actions without the words make us nothing but glorified boy-scouts, Civitian members in good standing, or just good guys. It is this mentality that leads to what was called “the social gospel” in the 60’s and 70’s. This is the mentality that says we go to poverty stricken countries where the Gospel has not been preached widely and build houses and take food, but don’t do any Bible studies. Listen, your work, our work does care deeply for the hurting BUT we are much more, BECAUSE we have a Words!! Without words the Word Himself cannot work. Without words the Gospel is more about good-doers than the Good News of the Doer. 

Preach the Gospel at all times and use words to explain, inform, and edify.

So, yes, live it out. But “how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news of good things!” (Romans 10:15). Bring that Good News, those Good Words, that Gospel! What YOU do does matter. Don’t quit.