First person: Encouraging trends in evangelism

Since stepping into the role as director of evangelism last year, I have devoted time to studying evangelistic trends. I am encouraged by developments that are emerging across our state and nation. After years of decline, there is a renewed emphasis on and excitement about evangelism.

Below are eight significant trends shaping the current landscape:

Subscribe to The Alabama Baptist today!

SIGN UP for our weekly Highlights emails.

1. Evangelism is back in focus. For too long, evangelism has been on the “back burner” in many of our churches. Thankfully, the pendulum is swinging back. Evangelism is once again “in vogue,” especially among younger believers who are rediscovering the joy of boldly sharing Christ.

2. Digital evangelism is expanding. From text messages to TikTok, digital platforms are being used to share the gospel one-on-one in ways unimaginable just a few years ago. Even artificial intelligence is being explored as a tool for personalized evangelism and discipleship. Digital spaces are no longer optional; they are becoming a frontline missions field.

3. Crusade-type evangelism is rising again. I once assumed that evangelistic “crusades” or “celebrations” had faded into history. I was wrong. Mass evangelistic movements are reemerging — not only in Africa and Asia but also across the U.S. and the Global North. From stadium gatherings to coordinated regional campaigns, large-scale proclamation is alive and growing.

4. “Cold-turkey” evangelism is returning. On college campuses and in public spaces, believers are again stepping out to engage strangers with the gospel. Ask our Alabama Baptist campus ministers and they’ll tell you: students are boldly going into the highways and byways, initiating gospel conversations with those they have never met.

5. Relationships with intentionality are returning. For years, “building a relationship” was sometimes used as an excuse to avoid witnessing. Today’s young believers are reclaiming relational evangelism with purpose. They are building authentic friendships with the clear intent of sharing Christ with those they love.

6. Emphasis on the Holy Spirit is being renewed. The Spirit never left, but at times churches have treated Him as the “red-headed stepchild of the Trinity.” A new generation is seeking Him afresh … through fasting, prayer and openness to His leading. Spirit-led evangelism is marked by boldness, authenticity and a hunger for revival.

7. Genuine repentance is being emphasized. Evangelism today is not about shallow decisions but about authentic transformation. The focus is shifting toward life-change that reflects genuine repentance and long-term discipleship.

8. God as Creator is the starting point. We live in a post-Christian culture where many lack a basic biblical framework. Effective evangelism increasingly requires starting at the very beginning — introducing God as Creator before proclaiming Him as Redeemer.

To say I am encouraged by the emerging evangelism trends is a vast understatement. I am thrilled! I hope you are excited as well. God is moving in Alabama. To God alone receive all the glory!