It's All Relative

In preparation for Easter weekend, Annie and I have been inviting our relatives, neighbors and an acquaintance to join us for church. So far my sister and her husband are joining us for the Saturday evening service.

Like street evangelism, sharing Jesus with people you know requires prayer and preparation. Here are some thoughts on how to evangelize your friends, relatives, acquaintences, neighbors and coworkers.

Know the Scriptures. You can’t share the gospel if you don’t know it. Read the scriptures and understand them, and have a personal testimony to their truthfulness.

Build Solid Friendships. Though sharing the gospel with strangers can sometimes build friendships, sharing the gospel is more effective when you have friends that know you will remain whether or not they choose to accept Jesus. When you share the Lord with friends it shows them how important the gospel is to you.

Be an Example. Live the gospel to the very best of your ability. Be an example of God's love to your friends and neighbors, co-workers and colleagues. The true gospel involves caring for others, and living uprightly.

Open Your Mouth. Though being an example is important, it is just as important to start talking. Individuals may become interested in the gospel by how you live, but one way or another you’ve got to start telling them about the gospel. Share your convictions about the gospel, and invite those you share the gospel with to pray to know of its truthfulness. Share your testimony whenever you get the chance.

Be Led by the Spirit. When you share the gospel the Spirit must be present to confirm your testimony to the other person. It is the Spirit, not you, that convicts another person with the truth.