What to do if Marketing has Replaced Your Evangelism
If a church finds itself relying more on marketing than on actual gospel proclamation, it’s not too late to course-correct. Many churches didn’t make the shift on purpose—it happened gradually, as the tools of the digital age promised growth, visibility, and engagement. But when those tools become the mission rather than servants of the mission, the church loses its evangelistic edge. Here’s how to realign.
1. Repent and Refocus
Every revival begins with honest repentance. Church leaders must be willing to acknowledge before God—and potentially the congregation—that the Great Commission has taken a backseat. Refocusing begins with the question: “Are we building a crowd, or making disciples?” Jesus didn’t say, “Go and build a platform.” He said, “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
2. Re-center the Gospel in Every Ministry
It’s possible to be active in ministry and yet assume the gospel rather than proclaim it. Churches must evaluate whether the good news of salvation through Jesus is clearly presented and prioritized across every ministry—children’s, youth, small groups, events, and Sunday services. Without the gospel, we may offer inspiration, but not transformation.
3. Train and Mobilize Believers for Personal Evangelism
Many Christians aren’t sharing their faith—not because they’re unwilling, but because they feel unprepared. Churches can shift the culture by offering simple, practical evangelism training that gives members the confidence to start spiritual conversations. Tools like “3 Circles,” “The Romans Road,” or the Alpha Course can help. Regularly sharing stories of everyday evangelism reinforces that this isn’t just for pastors or missionaries—it’s for every believer.
4. Celebrate Evangelism, Not Just Attendance
What a church celebrates, it replicates. When baptism stories, testimonies, and gospel conversations are highlighted—rather than just Sunday attendance numbers or event turnout—it sends a message: this matters most. It reminds the congregation that kingdom fruit is about changed lives, not filled rooms.
5. Use Marketing to Support Evangelism, Not Replace It
Marketing isn’t evil—but it must be redeemed and repurposed. Rather than making your brand or service the hero, use your communication channels to elevate Jesus and empower the church. Share testimonies. Post gospel-centered resources. Encourage members to invite friends not just to events, but into spiritual conversations. The goal of every platform should be to amplify the mission, not substitute for it.
A Heart-Check Question
Ask this simple but convicting question:
“If our church had no website, no social media, and no marketing budget… would we still be reaching lost people?”
If the answer is no, it’s time for a Holy Spirit-led reset. The Great Commission wasn’t given to tech-savvy churches—it was given to ordinary disciples, filled with the Spirit and willing to go.