Each of Us Can Witness and Share the Gospel

By: Mike Wallace, Congregational Vice President 

In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul uses metaphors that were a part of their culture to communicate essential truths. Paul relates the work of evangelism to a farmer's work in the field: "So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow." 1 Corinthians 3:7 

Paul's message is clear to us: We are all empowered with the task to witness, but it is ultimately God the Holy Spirit who grows the seed of faith in the hearts of those who hear and believe. This means others' response to the good news of the gospel is not dependent on us as believers. It is simply our responsibility to faithfully share the good news of eternal life we get through Jesus Christ. 

But, if we're honest, many of us keep our faith to ourselves because we worry we might not share correctly. So many people in our world are ready and willing to hear a good news message of Jesus Christ and what He has done for us, and God wants to use us all to tell His story of love, mercy, and grace! God can use you right where you are—in your job, in your community, in your family, and in your circle of friends. Everywhere you walk with others, God calls you to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to those you meet. 

You're never alone in this witnessing. God promised that His Spirit would be with us and lead us, giving us the right words to say as we step out in faith. “ …teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” Matthew 28:20 

Consider that next step you can take to begin witnessing and sharing the good news about Jesus Christ. Prepare yourself to have conversations about Christ with your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, or even a stranger. Ask God to give you courage, so that the good work He has started in you might also take root in others. Remember sharing His love is a true witness story of your faith in Him and His love for us. 

We remember that just before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gathered His disciples who had been with Him during His ministry. While they were sitting and sharing a meal, Jesus commissioned them to continue the work He had begun. Jesus had spent most of His ministry proclaiming the arrival of the Kingdom of God, which is the rule and reign of God. The right response to this arrival was to turn from old ways and believe in Jesus. 

The good news is that Jesus has brought the arrival of the Kingdom of God to us, and through His death and resurrection, He has made a way for all people to have a new life with Him. Our task is to tell everyone His love story for us. We share and witness about the greatest gift ever given -- eternal life with God -- and that this free gift is available to everyone, everywhere. Take time today, and every day, to pray for those in your life who don't know the hope that Jesus gives. Pray for their salvation and for opportunities to share and witness your own faith story with others.