The idea that the work of soul winning or evangelism is to be carried out by specialists like pastors and missionaries is not taught in Scripture. Every child of God bears some responsibility, 2 Cor. 5:18-20.
Early in His ministry, Christ promised to make His followers fishers of men, Matt. 4:19. At its close He said, “Ye are witnesses of these things,” Luke 24:48. Each Gospel ends with an emphasis on personal testimony, Mark 16:15. The last words of Christ before His ascension dealt with witnessing, Acts 1:8, 9.
The gospel has not been proclaimed until people have been given good news from God to believe. That good news is defined in 1 Cor. 15:1-3. It is not related to anything men may do, Eph. 2:8, 9. The only acceptable response is to receive Christ, John 1:12; to believe, John 3:16; to call upon Him, Rom. 10:13; to confess Him, Rom. 10:9; to look unto Him, Isa. 45:22.
Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, Rom. 10:17. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts and regenerates, John 16:8-11; Tit. 3:5. God provides pastors and teachers to perfect the saints for their work of ministry, Eph. 4:11, 12. This can be done by anyone, at any time, anywhere, and in many ways. Wise believers will win souls, Prov 11:30, and receive an eternal reward, Dan. 12:3.
William Evans, The Great Doctrines of the Bible, (Chicago: Bible Institute Colportage Assoc., 1912), WORDsearch CROSS e-book, Under: “Evangelism”.
AMEN.