We are fooled if we fail to understand that evangelism does not happen because we argue well.
It does not happen either, because our apologetics is masterful. As a falling tree cannot be heard unless there are ears listening, any effort to further the kingdom of God into other’s lives is totally, utterly dependent on them being reached by the Holy Spirit.
For a revival to happen would we not be insanely ignorant were we to ignore that the vital energy of it all is the experienced presence of God. That Presence is the Holy Spirit making Himself manifest to us.
We can be vessels: we are supposed to be ambassadors of Christ; but we may as well try to put out a forest fire by blowing if we think that we can do anything at all – ANYTHING – except it is God who is communicating to those we teach, preach to, and otherwise try to help.
All evangelism and revival ministry can only be effective as God is received into our hearts; but also as we acknowledge Him as we go forth; that it is He leading and He doing: we are vessels of Him.
Jesus said, “Without me, you can do nothing.”
Buddy