Communicating Jesus

Who was the first person to tell you about Jesus? A dad or mom? A grandparent? Maybe a friend? You can probably think back to several people who the Spirit of God used to help you understand the Good News about Jesus dying on the cross, rising again, and the need for you to personally decide to trust Jesus. Now here’s the question, Do you regret that any of these people told you about Christ?

The first century church did not grow because they kept silent. The New Testament
reveals that the new powerful message about a Jewish crucified Messiah who rose from the dead was spreading like a flame driven by gusty winds. Paul begins his letter to the Colossians expressing his passion to let everyone in on the incredible mystery that was now clear.

Paul offered far more than five steps to overcoming your anger or three principles that could help you to achieve financial success. He believed that God had revealed to him a secret that not even Abraham, Moses, or Isaiah knew about.

Down through the ages and in past generations the secret was in God’s heart. But when Jesus died and rose again the secret was out. The Messiah would take up residence in the life of anyone who would simply trust Him, and this presence would guarantee that glory, not death, was ahead. Paul could not have stated this precious revelation more succinctly.

"To the saints (believers) God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is the Messiah in you, the hope of glory."
Colossians 3: 27

When I am intimidated about sharing Jesus with someone else, I remember what a gift it is to have Him living inside my life, and I remember those who had the courage to make the Gospel clear to me. This gets my tongue untied when the opportunities come to speak up.

Some suggestions to help you to proclaim Him:

1. Reflect back on this past week. What evidence do you see in your personal life that Jesus has made your heart His home address? (Check out Matthew 5:14-16)


2. Do you find it easier to shine your life in your home, school, workplace or neighborhood?
Where is the most difficult place to shine your light?


Think of one concrete way that you can shine your light this week.

3. Can you think of three family members, fellow students, golf or hunting buddies, or work associates who do not clearly understand what it means that Jesus can take up residence in their lives?


Write down their names:
a.

b.

c.

Now make a commitment to pray for them for the next thirty days –

Pray that the Holy Spirit would work in their life and draw them to Jesus.
Pray that your life would serve as a good witness.
Pray for boldness and opportunity to share your faith with them.
Pray that they would trust Christ as their Savior

4. You are an expert in telling your story of how you came to trust Jesus for your salvation. Have you ever written it down? Take a few minutes this week to do this and then share it with a friend.