How can we be a modern day disciple and share the good news?
Last week a question was asked in the comments of my post that has echoed in my mind all week on how to best respond. I’d like to share the comment, provide my response, and ask that you thoughtfully consider adding your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of this post.
The Post
I know several people that are not very “religious” but live in a way and act in a way that mirrors what we believe - especially love (sacrificial love) of neighbor. My challenge is how to express these kinds of messages in a way that attracts them rather than turning them off. Many times I think the key is language but not language in the sense of English, Spanish, Italian. Any ideas how to express this message in non religious language? My hope and belief is that when we do that we start pulling them in with us.
My Take
It seems to me that you are asking how to tell someone that you believe in Jesus, without saying I believe in Jesus.
Personally, when you find something that can bring joy to others and you can freely give this gift to others, it’s hard to not share this joy. I have had many challenges with this on my journey; however, my answer to your question is to use ACTIONS and BOLDNESS on GOD’S TIME. If you are consistent in subtly showing others how your faith makes you happy, and brings you joy, they may initiate the conversation. Simply living like a son or daughter of Jesus is spreading the message that He wants us to spread… it is being shared with our ACTIONS.
Using words can be difficult. I struggled for years about how to share Jesus with a friend who lives his life with the “sacrificial love” you describe, he’s a good dude! To use words you must prayerfully consider when to have BOLDNESS. Your faith will tell you when it is time to shift gears from ACTIONS to WORDS. If you are meant to use words you will know it, because you’ll won’t be able to contain yourself anymore. If you don’t reach that point, it's likely not time, it’s not God’s time! Perhaps the person is not ready to receive the message… who knows. We are called to share the good news, and leave the rest to the Lord. So share the message with your ACTIONS and use WORDS if you need to, but remember that the work of conversion of that person’s heart is solely the work of Jesus… we are just tapping them on the shoulder and asking if they want to meet a dear friend of ours.
Let me leave you with Proverbs 3: 5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PRO.3.5
Proverbs 3:5-6 is our family verse, we refer to it all the time, it’s one of the most simple decision making systems God put in place for us to use for any and all decisions. As we walk with our kids, guiding along the way, the simplicity of referring to it as a way to help lead to better actions, a correct perspective with regard to why a decision needs to be made and who is being served in the decision, Proverbs 3:5-6 address those questions and so much more.
ReplyDeletePersonally it is easy for me to share Jesus because I am sick. Everyone always wants to know why I’m so happy while being ill. Well that’s easy I would not be where I am at today if I didn’t get sick. Learning to live in God’s plan and not mine was a struggle at first however now I am married, my relationships are amazing, and I have officially started a fulfilling career that helps others. I believe attitude and perception on life itself can show your faith in itself. People will always want to know what is making you different and why you are calm in the storm, it’s just God bro.
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