Five Biblical Reasons to Write Letters to People as a Way of Outreach

Nigel Williams
Jul 12
4 min read

Writing letters may seem like an old-fashioned practice in our digital age, but it remains a powerful and personal way to share the Gospel. The Bible provides many examples of how written communication can encourage, convict, and lead others to faith in Christ. Here are five biblical reasons to write letters to people as a way of outreach, along with the benefits of including printed church invites, seasonal greeting cards, booklets, and Gospel tracts in this ministry.

Here are Five Biblical Reasons to Write Letters to People as a Way of Outreach

1. Following the Example of the Apostles

The New Testament is filled with letters written by the apostles, particularly Paul, who used this method to teach, encourage, and share the Gospel. In Romans, Paul expresses his longing to visit the believers in person but still takes the opportunity to share the truth through writing: “So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also” (Romans 1:15). Writing letters allows believers to follow this example, reaching people who may be far away or otherwise inaccessible.

Including a printed church invite or Gospel tract in your letter can further explain the message of salvation and provide an opportunity for recipients to engage with your local church or learn more about Christ.

2. Sharing Personal Testimonies

A handwritten letter offers a unique opportunity to share your personal testimony of faith. As the psalmist declared, “Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul” (Psalm 66:16). Your story of how God has worked in your life can inspire and encourage others to seek Him.

Seasonal greeting cards, such as Christmas or Easter cards, can be an excellent way to share your testimony alongside the message of the Gospel. These occasions often prompt reflection and can soften hearts to receive the Good News.

3. Proclaiming the Gospel Clearly

Letters allow for a thoughtful and clear presentation of the Gospel, tailored to the recipient’s needs and circumstances. Paul reminds us of the power of the written Word: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). By including printed Gospel tracts or booklets in your letters, you provide recipients with Scriptural truths that they can read and revisit at their own pace.

These materials are especially useful for those who may not feel comfortable discussing spiritual matters face-to-face. A well-crafted Gospel tract can explain the message of salvation clearly and biblically, planting seeds of faith in the hearts of readers.

4. Encouraging Reflection and Response

A letter invites the recipient to take time to reflect on the message. Unlike a fleeting conversation, written words can be reread and meditated upon. Isaiah 55:11 assures us of the enduring power of God’s Word: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”

Including a printed booklet with more in-depth teaching or answers to common questions can help guide recipients as they consider the claims of Christ. These resources provide a way for them to explore their faith journey further.

5. Reaching the Unreachable

Some people may never attend church or engage in direct conversations about faith, but a letter can reach them in the privacy of their own home. Paul’s letters reached churches and individuals across vast distances, proving that written communication transcends physical barriers. As he wrote to the Corinthians, “Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2).

By sending letters with church invites, seasonal greeting cards, Gospel tracts, or booklets, you create an opportunity for the Gospel to reach those who might otherwise remain untouched. These materials can remain in homes for weeks or months, serving as a constant reminder of God’s love and truth.

In Summary

These five biblical reasons to write letters to people as a way of outreach highlight the enduring value of this method. Whether sharing personal testimonies, proclaiming the Gospel, or encouraging reflection, letters provide a personal and effective means of spreading the Good News. By including printed church invites, seasonal greeting cards, Gospel tracts, and booklets, believers can enhance their efforts and ensure that the message of salvation reaches hearts and homes. Let us follow the example of the apostles and use every opportunity to share Christ’s love through the written word.