We are surrounded by opportunities to share the powerful news that God loves and saves to the unbeliever. To help us, there are many wonderful tools at our disposal that explain the Gospel message to those around us including tracts, a group of verses such as ‘The Roman Road’, DVDs, movies, radio stations, books, pamphlets, church, etc. The list goes on and on. Each of us tend to grip our favorite(s) of these tools available to us as we minister to the lost. These tools are not bad, they are just that, tools.
Paul makes an eye opening proclamation in 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5. Notice not only how Paul shared the Good News (with words) but also what was added to the words. Paul and his companions shared the Gospel with God’s power and conviction through the Holy Spirit. It is so easy for us to obey Jesus’ command to spread the Good News in our own understanding and strength. How much more effective would our message be if we kept in step with the Spirit (Gal 5:25), sought God’s wisdom (James 1:5), and shared the wonderful message of salvation WITH God, not just FOR God.
What does that look like? That is the point. It will look completely different for each and every opportunity we have as we evangelize! Not only are each one of us unique, so are the people we are talking to. Just by looking at the Scriptures, we see each person had a different relationship with God (and Jesus in the New Testament). This is exciting! As we pray and seek God’s wisdom and leading of His Spirit before and during our conversation with non-believers, we are in the front row seats of watching God work uniquely within the lives of others. Remember, God needs His people to break the ground, plant, water, fertilize, weed AND reap the harvest of salvation. At that moment you may be doing any of these jobs, so do not worry if the person does not immediately repent and believe. Each job is vitally important to His plan in the life you are speaking into.
There is no wrong way to share the Good News, so be encouraged. Have an eager expectation in watching God work in a way you never saw before! Remind yourself to walk WITH Jesus, not just FOR Him.
By Noelle Huether
www.TruthVictory.com
