It starts with you
We are all unique and God has placed you amongst a unique circle of people who trust and value your words. By sharing your faith in your own genuine way, you can make a significant impact on their lives.
Once you find your purpose in sharing the gospel, it’s important to take personal responsibility for helping people know Jesus in your everyday life.
Evangelism is not just for a chosen few - it's a call from Jesus to all of us and ultimately, to you. In our fast-paced, over-stimulated and under-connected world, many of us may feel that sharing Jesus is just for great faith giants. We are inundated by feeds full of influential pastors and, well, influencers. Their eloquence and charm can perpetuate the lie that sharing the message of Jesus is a job reserved for certain, extra-graced individuals. Special people whose special gift is evangelism.
The truth is, sharing Jesus is for everyone, not just "gifted" evangelists. The question is not “am I called to evangelism”; it’s actually “am I overthinking it and missing out on opportunities to partner with the Holy Spirit in the work he’s already doing in people’s lives?”
Sharing Jesus starts with you connecting with your world in a personal way.
Jesus' command to share the gospel, as stated in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), applies to everyone who follows Him. That’s you! We’re each responsible for connecting Jesus with our world–our family, friends, colleagues, and anyone who comes along our path.
Jesus calls us to share the gospel with all people, but not necessarily all at once. If Jesus connects with each of us in a personal way, it makes sense for us to do the same with others. To do this effectively, it's vital to build authentic relationships with those around you. Be honest about your spiritual journey, offer meaningful support and encouragement, and engage in conversations about spirituality and faith.
Hang out with people without any agenda. A good test is asking yourself the question: would I invest in this person even if they never came to Christ? Take genuine interest in people: do things they like doing, listen more than talking, get comfy with long silences, value and love the person in front of you. Connect with the person in front of you. Apart from God, they are the most glorious part of creation.
Through deep relational connections, you’ll create opportunities to share the good news of Jesus in a way that feels natural and honest.
Taking personal responsibility for sharing Jesus involves continual learning and growth. Seek out resources, training, and tools to help you share the Gospel. It's also crucial to remember that the Holy Spirit guides and empowers you as you share Jesus. Intentionally building your relationship with Him will help you to overcome your fears and limitations and confidently share the gospel with others.
As you take personal responsibility to share your faith with those around you, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond your immediate reach, ultimately bringing the message of hope and salvation to more people. Keep in mind that sharing Jesus is for everyone, not just "gifted" evangelists. Seize the opportunity, embrace your calling, and make a difference in the lives of those within your sphere of influence.
Remember
It starts with you.
Build authentic relationships; hang out without any agenda.
Connect your world to Jesus in a way that only you can, sharing Jesus in your own genuine, unique way
Next Steps
- Read Matthew 5:13-16 in The Message.
- Make a list of things you enjoy/are good at, and see if you can share Jesus through them.
- Share testimonies back and forth with your Christian friends of times when you shared Jesus with someone.
- Read a good book on personal responsibility: Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi, The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen.
Scriptural Support
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Colossians 3:23 (NIV)
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
Galatians 6:5 (NIV)
For each one should carry their own load.
Matthew 22:37-40 (NIV)
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
1 Thessalonians 5:14 (NIV)
And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
2 Corinthians 5:10 (NIV)
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
