Being an effective witness for Christ in a world that does not know Him requires dedication, courage, and wisdom from above. As Christians, we are called to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with those who do not yet believe (Matthew 28:19-20). Here are some biblically-based tips for reaching the lost with the gospel message:
Pray Continually
We cannot be effective witnesses without the empowerment and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel, for the words to speak, for receptive hearts in those who will hear the message, and for boldness to open your mouth when God provides a divine appointment (Ephesians 6:19-20). Apart from Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Lives Worthy of the Gospel
Our lives should match the message we proclaim. As we share the love of Christ, we must demonstrate that love in our actions. We should live upright, honest lives that reflect the light of Christ to the world (Philippians 1:27, Matthew 5:16). Our walk should back up our talk. No one will listen to the gospel we preach if we are hypocrites who live in contradiction to the message.
Look for Opportunities to Bring Up Christ
As you go through each day, look for natural ways to turn conversations toward spiritual matters. If someone shares a problem they face, mention how Christ has helped you through similar struggles. Show interest in others and listen to understand their spiritual condition. Ask questions to discover if they know Christ. Listen for clues to share biblical truths naturally. (Colossians 4:5-6).
Develop Relationships
Seek to develop real friendships with nonbelievers. Do not see them merely as targets for conversion. Show genuine interest and love for them as individuals Christ died to save. Your relationship should not depend on them converting. Share meals, enjoy activities together, and learn about their lives, problems, and beliefs. As trust develops, gentle share how Christ has changed your life. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
Meet Physical Needs
Look for opportunities to meet the tangible needs of others. By extending kindness and lending a hand to those suffering poverty, sickness, or injustice, you show God’s love in action. Meeting physical needs often paves the way for ministering to spiritual needs. Pray God will open doors to build relationships this way. (Matthew 25:35-40, Titus 3:1-2).
Learn Basic Gospel Presentations
Knowing simple ways to share the basic gospel message is important. For example, you could share the Romans Road verses (Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9-10) or use the Wordless Book colors (gold for heaven, dark for sin, red for Christ’s blood, white for our cleansed sins). Look for appropriate times to present these basic messages. (1 Peter 3:15).
Share Your Testimony
One of the most effective tools you have is the story of how you came to faith in Christ. People enjoy hearing personal stories. Be prepared to share briefly how your life changed when you trusted in Christ for salvation. Focus on how He impacted you. Keep it short and sincere. This can help stir spiritual interest. (Revelation 12:11).
Give Gospel Tracts and Literature
Handing someone a gospel tract or booklet can open doors to witness. When appropriate, offer a person a tract and say you hope it will bless them. Ask if you could get together later to discuss it. Mail encouraging cards with bible verses to start conversations. Give Bibles as gifts. Literature distribution can supplement personal evangelism. (Mark 16:15).
Go Out into the World
Don’t just wait for witness opportunities to come to you. Prayerfully go out into your community looking for divine appointments. Help at community service events, strike up conversations at parks or events, serve at rescue missions, volunteer at nursing homes, or participate in outreach events. Combine good deeds with gospel presentations. (Mark 16:15, Matthew 10:7-8).
Do Not Compromise the Gospel
In our attempts to be “relevant” and accepted, we must be careful not to water down or change the gospel. Do not try clever manipulations, entertainment, or popular fads. Share a straightforward, biblical explanation of sin, judgment, Christ’s provision, and the response of repentance and faith. Depend on God’s truth to work in hearts, not gimmicks. (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).
Persist with Patience and Gentleness
Recognize that evangelism is often a gradual process over a period of time. Do not become discouraged if people seem disinterested at first. Keep looking for opportunities to engage people and build relationships. Gently answer questions and allay misunderstandings as they arise. Keep pursuing others in love, remembering you once rejected the gospel as well. (2 Timothy 2:24-26).
Trust the Results to God
Our efforts to witness are empowered by the Spirit but only God can open hearts to respond in faith (1 Corinthians 3:7-9). Avoid pushy manipulation and do not become judgmental toward those who reject the gospel. Present the message clearly and let the Spirit impress it on their hearts. Having done your part, leave the results in God’s hands. Move on to those who may be more receptive. (Matthew 10:14).
Equip Other Believers
Help other Christians understand how to share their faith more effectively. Offer classes at your church equipping members to witness. Encourage new believers in their evangelism attempts. Set an example for other Christians by your own outreach efforts. Our excitement about witnessing can be contagious. In this way we multiply our efforts. (Ephesians 4:11-16).
Witnessing in a lost world requires dedication and wisdom. As we apply God’s principles in a loving way, He will use us to plant gospel seeds and see some come to fruition in Christ. We sow the message, God gives the increase. Be encouraged that your faithful witness will produce eternal fruit as you labor together with Him in this vital work.