Tell It Like It Is
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 3: 13-17
If you are asked about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 1 Peter 3:15
IT FINALLY happened. You find yourself sharing your testimony with a non-Christian friend, and you know God has opened a choice opportunity. But where do you go from here? Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Make the message personal wherever you can. If you use a step-by-step presentation like the booklet “Would You Like to Know God Personally?”, keep the focus on your friend. But don’t forget to add your own comments and personal examples where they fit best.
- Postpone questions whenever possible. Your friend might have a million questions. If an issue fits where you are in your presentation, try to work it in right away. If not, ask your friend to hold off until you finish.
- Invite a response. When you finish your presentation, ask your friend if he or she is ready to trust Christ. If yes, ask the person to pray and express trust in Christ. If no, don’t be discouraged. Keep praying for your friend, and plan to get together again and offer another opportunity to trust Christ.
Your friend might have questions or objections during or after your presentation. Some questions are sincere-based in real concerns and needs. Other questions are insincere-asked just to stall you or get you off the point. And still other questions are like mini-tests-asked to check your sincerity or knowledge. The toughest part of answering any question is often your attitude. Some thoughts on how you can respond best:
- Get ready as best you can. You don’t need a doctorate in the Bible for God to use you to answer your friend’s questions. Just keep learning and preparing to reply to others. If you can’t answer a question, tell your friend you will find out more and share it at another time.
- Don’t feel threatened. You are Christ’s ambassador, and when you discuss the gospel with your friends, God’s power is at work in you (see Romans 1: 16). Be confident without being pushy or proud.
- Don’t argue. You can’t argue someone into trusting Christ. Just share the gospel with your friend in the power of the Holy Spirit, and let your loving attitude be your most persuasive argument.
REFLECT: How are you preparing yourself to share Christ when he gives you the opportunity?
PRAY: Pray for opportunities to share Christ with your friends.