# Is “Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words” in the Bible?

> No. “Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words” is not a Bible verse. It comes from Christian tradition, not Scripture.

Source: https://www.lumin.faith/is-it-in-the-bible/preach-the-gospel-at-all-times
By Andrew Kittridge · October 28, 2026

Scripture asks for the life and the words: let your light shine so people see the good you do (Matthew 5:16), and be ready to explain the hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15). Paul asks how anyone can hear with no one to preach (Romans 10:14).

Christian tradition, not Scripture. Origin: Often credited to Francis of Assisi, but it does not appear in his known writings.

## What the Bible says instead

> In the same way, your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and give glory to your Father in heaven.
>
> — [Matthew 5:16](https://www.lumin.faith/read/matthew/5#16) (Lumin Translation)

> But in your hearts treat Christ as the holy Lord. Always be ready to make a defense to anyone who asks you to explain the hope that is in you, but do it with gentleness and respect,
>
> — [1 Peter 3:15](https://www.lumin.faith/read/1-peter/3#15) (Lumin Translation)

> How, then, can people call on someone they have not believed in? How can they believe in someone they have not heard? And how can they hear with no one to preach?
>
> — [Romans 10:14](https://www.lumin.faith/read/romans/10#14) (Lumin Translation)

## Common questions

### Is “Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words” in the Bible?

No. “Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words” is not a Bible verse. It comes from Christian tradition, not Scripture. Scripture asks for the life and the words: let your light shine so people see the good you do (Matthew 5:16), and be ready to explain the hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15). Paul asks how anyone can hear with no one to preach (Romans 10:14).

### Where does “Preach the gospel at all times; when necessary, use words” come from?

Often credited to Francis of Assisi, but it does not appear in his known writings.

### What does the Bible say instead?

Read Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 3:15, Romans 10:14. Scripture asks for the life and the words: let your light shine so people see the good you do (Matthew 5:16), and be ready to explain the hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15). Paul asks how anyone can hear with no one to preach (Romans 10:14).

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