In the past month I have had the opportunity to personally share the gospel with 6 people, 3 of which accepted the redeemer and the promise of eternal life in heaven. There are some similar responses that you get from people when you ask the question “What do you understand it takes for a person to get to heaven?”. Most respond with a list of the good, sacrificial, unselfish, things that they done throughout their lives and they are being very truthful when they describe those things. I often hear next, “I hope that I have done enough”.
Why does a person think that they have to do all of those things in order to “be in good favor” with God? Is it because they have seen Christians doing so much? I’m not sure, but a common statement I hear when someone receives Christ is, “I didn’t know that it was that simple”, or “I really thought that I had to get my life straightened out first”. The bible says that “today is the day of Salvation”.
To my brothers and sisters I would implore you to have a different mindset when it comes to sharing your story, and the gospel directions to eternal life.
First, when you are doing something good for someone (loving them) and you are asked “why did you do that”, reflect Christ by saying “God loves you and so do I”. You just may have the best opportunity ever to share with that person the saving grace of Christ.
Second, be clear. If someone is coming to see me, I don’t tell them “just come to Spartanburg you will find me”. I tell the detail turns, street names, house number and the color of my front door just for good measure. When we tell people to “Love Jesus” or “Get Saved”, what specifically does that mean? Tell your story, then share what the bible says in Romans 3:23, Ephesians 1:7, John 3:16, and Romans 10:9.
Third, go and tell. Don’t say come and see, meaning don’t feel like that you have to get that person through the doors of the church so that the preacher share the truth of Christ. You are the church wherever you are at.
This Sunday we will be celebrating the wins. Can’t wait to hear and see the encounters of God. Be there or be square.
Gather, Grow, and Go
Pastor Tim