Sharing

Ten Words to Remember 
When Sharing JESUS With a Friend

1) PRAY
  • Pray regularly for friends who don't believe in Jesus, that God would work in her heart with His powerful gospel to bring her to a saving faith in her Savior.
  • Pray also for friends who believe but are struggling in their spiritual life, that God would strengthen their faith.
  • Pray that God will give you opportunities to tell friends about Jesus, that He will help you at those times to speak about the love of the Lord.
  • Tell your friend you're praying for her.  This will strengthen your relationship.

2) PREPARE
  • We are told "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."  (1 Peter 3:15)   
  • You're a Christian.  Friends will notice that you're different and will or may ask 
    • "Why are you so kind even to those who aren't nice to you?"   
    • "Why do you pray before you eat?"   
    • "Why do you wear cross jewelry?"   
    • "Why do you read a Bible and go to Bible class or worship services?"
  • Think about these questions.  Prepare an answer.
  • What does it mean to be a Christian?

3) PRACTICE
  • Get better at sharing about your faith in Jesus by practicing!
  • Practice with a friend or family member who is already a believer.
  • Role play different questions or scenarios.
  • Practice will reduce nervousness and increase confidence.
  • Practice listening, too.   "Say back" what she said, for clarification.

4) PROJECT YOUR LIGHT
  • "You might be the only Bible someone ever reads."  
  • Your actions (your light in the world!) may open a door to share the gospel which may bring someone to faith in Jesus.  Let your light shine!
  • Asking "How are you today?" can lead to an opportunity you never expected.
  • Sincerely care about others.
  • Your friends are looking & watching, so project the love of Christ ALL THE TIME!

5) PROCLAIM THE GOOD NEWS
  • The "Good News" (gospel) is powerful when combined with the Holy Spirit.
  • Never miss an opportunity to share the Good News!  
    • Jesus is our loving friend who has saved us from separation from God and His spiritual blessings.
    • Jesus died to give us life with God right now AND forever in Heaven.  
    • Praise God for blessings throughout your day.  
    • He's your friend.  Talk about Him and the way you see Him working in your life. 
  • Speak about Jesus "from your heart" what you know to be true and the things He has done in your own life.
  • Share your past experiences where you have seen God working in your life.  Be joyous!

6) PACE YOURSELF
  • Take your time.
  • As your friendship grows, share more and more about Jesus.
  • You don't have to tell everything all at once!
  • Listen to your friend's concerns and questions.
  • Be sensitive to times of need, crisis, stress; be available.  Sending a card with a brief note is one way to proclaim the Good News and shows you care.

7) PERSIST
  • Don't be discouraged with/when people don't listen or accept what you say.
  • As you have opportunity, remind your friend about Jesus and share what you believe.
  • God loves your friend (even MORE than you do), and wants her to experience the joy and hope of being one of His children by faith in Jesus.
  • Pray that God will keep using you and others to share His word with this friend, according to His will.

8) PROMISES
  • Place your confidence in the promises found in Scripture!
    • Jesus will always be with you (Matthew 28:20).
    • You have the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).
    • God's Word will accomplish what He wants (Isaiah 55:11)
  • If your friend asks a question you can't answer, promise to get back to him/her with the answer (then do it!).

9) PATIENCE!
  • Don't give up too soon.
  • Remember God's patience with you!
  • Follow God's example when working with or sharing with others.

10) Be PROUD
  • You have been given a gift that is more precious than all worldly wealth.
  • Your Savior is honored that you believe in Him.
  • He is pleased that you are willing to share His name with others.
  • Don't be arrogant about it, but BE proud of your Christian faith, and let it show!  

(from materials shared at Shepherd Of The Hills Lutheran Church, January 2011)


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