JESUS SHARED
Acts 17:16–18, 22–23, 30–31
If you are on social media or have a smartphone, you know what it means to share something with someone. It could be a news article, a funny picture, a joke or even a Bible study. The ability to share information in real time is convenient and helpful. Oftentimes, we want to be the first to share something with our friends and enjoy the conversations that follow.
It has been my experience to want to share Christ with others and to pray for opportunities to do so. While there are times in our journey when we feel a strong pull to share Christ with someone, we must be willing to talk about Jesus and the salvation He provides at any time. We never know who we will encounter or what they are going through when our paths cross.
No one exemplifies this more than Paul. After his conversion, he fully committed the remainder of his life to preaching the gospel with passion, serving as a missionary and planting churches. His ministry was that of encouragement when needed and of administration when the situation called for it. No matter what hat he wore, one common thread was the gospel and the priority he placed on sharing it with everyone.
Be sensitive to opportunities to share the gospel. (16–18)
On the surface, it would seem that the place where Paul was would be the last place to share the gospel. In a city filled with secular philosophy, hedonism and human exaltation, why would Paul share the gospel? The reason is simple; they needed it! What we may view as a lost cause can be fertile ground for God to do an amazing work. The world is without Christ and full of cynicism and hate, but Jesus is greater than the world and has overcome whatever we fear most.
Find common ground for introducing the gospel. (22–23)
When we share Christ with others, it is important to remember that we are on a mission for Christ without treating people like a missions project. Lost people are not dumb; they simply need to be forgiven of their sins, just as you and I do. When talking to someone, seek common ground. You will probably have more in common with others than you think.
Christ shared the good news with love, not anger. Remember, you have the most wonderful news they have ever heard, and this is the most serious conversation a person can have.
Help others understand the truth of the gospel. (30–31)
When we share Jesus and the message of salvation, we are sharing an absolute truth. That message is needed now more than ever, and people are skeptical and critical of God’s Word. God is gracious and good, but our time is short. He is calling the world to repentance and belief in Him. The Church must diligently seek God in prayer. We need to pray for brokenness over the lost and perishing in our communities and the world.
You do not need all the answers or a seminary degree to share with others what Christ has done for you. God is not looking for us to save anyone, but we are responsible for sharing with everyone. We have a Savior worth talking about. Who will you share with today?
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
