LEARN HOW TO SHARE THE GOSPEL
Sharing the gospel is more than just presenting the plan of salvation; it’s about living out and communicating the transformative power of Christ’s message in a way that resonates with others. In Ministry Sciences, we study how to share the gospel effectively, recognizing that this process involves several critical steps beyond simply explaining how to be saved. Here’s a comprehensive guide to sharing the gospel that goes beyond the basics, including the role of apologetics.
1. Understanding the Gospel Message
- The Core of the Gospel: At its heart, the gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came into the world to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). He lived a perfect life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose from the dead, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him (John 3:16).
- The Full Picture: While the plan of salvation is central, it’s important to present the full story of God’s redemptive plan, including creation, the fall, redemption, and restoration. This narrative helps people understand the depth and breadth of God’s work in the world and in their lives.
2. Living the Gospel
- Personal Testimony: One of the most powerful ways to share the gospel is through your own story. How has Jesus changed your life? Personal testimony provides a tangible example of the gospel’s impact and can often open the door to deeper conversations.
- Demonstrating Love: Jesus said that the world would know we are His disciples by our love for one another (John 13:35). Demonstrating love through actions—such as serving others, showing kindness, and forgiving—reinforces the message of the gospel in a way that words alone cannot.
3. Building Relationships
- Relational Evangelism: Sharing the gospel is most effective within the context of a relationship. Building trust and showing genuine interest in the lives of others creates opportunities to share the gospel naturally.
- Listening First: Before you speak, listen. Understanding someone’s background, struggles, and beliefs allows you to tailor your message to their unique situation. It also shows respect and care, which can make the person more receptive to the message.
4. Communicating the Message Clearly
- Simplicity: The gospel is profound, but it should be communicated in a way that is clear and understandable. Avoid theological jargon that might confuse someone who is unfamiliar with Christian terms.
- Tailoring the Message: Different people resonate with different aspects of the gospel. For some, the concept of forgiveness may be the most powerful; for others, it might be the hope of eternal life or the promise of a new beginning. Understand your audience and focus on the aspect of the gospel that speaks most deeply to them.
5. Engaging in Apologetics
- Defending the Faith: Apologetics, the reasoned defense of the Christian faith, is an essential part of sharing the gospel in a world filled with skepticism and alternative worldviews. This involves being prepared to answer questions and objections that people may have about Christianity (1 Peter 3:15).
- Understanding Common Objections: Familiarize yourself with common objections to the gospel, such as questions about the existence of God, the problem of evil, the reliability of the Bible, and the exclusivity of Christ. Being equipped to address these concerns thoughtfully and respectfully can remove barriers to faith.
- Using Apologetics Wisely: Apologetics should be used to clear the way for the gospel, not to win arguments. The goal is to engage in respectful dialogue that invites people to explore the truth claims of Christianity with an open mind.
6. Inviting a Response
- Presenting the Invitation: After sharing the gospel, it’s important to invite the person to respond. This might involve asking if they would like to accept Christ as their Savior or if they have any questions or doubts that need addressing.
- Encouraging a Next Step: For those who aren’t ready to make a decision, suggest a next step, such as attending a church service, joining a Bible study, or reading the Gospel of John. This keeps the door open for continued exploration and conversation.
7. Discipleship and Follow-Up
- Nurturing New Believers: Sharing the gospel doesn’t end with a person’s decision to follow Christ. Discipleship—helping new believers grow in their faith—is crucial. This includes teaching them to pray, study the Bible, and live out their faith in everyday life.
- Community Integration: Encourage new believers to get connected with a church community where they can find support, accountability, and opportunities to serve. This communal aspect of faith is vital for spiritual growth.
8. Praying for Guidance
- Seeking the Holy Spirit: Sharing the gospel is a spiritual endeavor, and we need the Holy Spirit’s guidance to do it effectively. Pray for wisdom, boldness, and sensitivity as you engage in gospel conversations.
- Interceding for Others: Pray for the people you’re sharing with. Ask God to soften their hearts and open their eyes to the truth of the gospel. Prayer is a powerful tool in the process of evangelism.
9. Embracing Patience and Perseverance
- Trusting in God’s Timing: Not everyone will respond to the gospel immediately. Some seeds take time to grow. Be patient and continue to show love and support, trusting that God is at work even when you don’t see immediate results.
- Persevering in Witnessing: Sometimes, sharing the gospel can be challenging, especially if you face rejection or indifference. Persevere in your witness, knowing that your efforts are part of a larger, divine plan.
Conclusion
Sharing the gospel is a profound privilege and responsibility. It’s not just about conveying a message; it’s about embodying that message in your life, building relationships, engaging in apologetics, and helping others experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ. By understanding the full scope of the gospel and applying these steps, you can share the good news effectively and see lives changed for eternity.
VOCAL WITNESSING IN EVANGELISM
Understand the Importance of Vocal Witness
The act of sharing the gospel verbally is central to the Christian faith. Vocal witnessing is not just a recommended practice; it is a necessity for evangelism. Its authenticity and foundation lie deeply in Christian faith, rooted in the very words of Jesus. The Bible emphasizes the importance of sharing our faith with others.
Matthew 28:19-20 (WEB):
“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
This passage reminds us that vocal witness is not optional but a commandment from Jesus to His followers, ensuring that the gospel reaches every corner of the earth.
Support for Vocal Witnessing
Vocal witnesses are not left alone in their mission. God commissions, protects, and provides for those who speak out about their faith. The covenant of grace supports and empowers this ministry, providing a divine guarantee that God will be with us as we witness.
Acts 1:8 (WEB):
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.”
The Holy Spirit equips and empowers believers to be effective witnesses, ensuring that their message resonates with those who hear it.
Addressing the Lack of Vocal Witness
Many Christians struggle with vocal witnessing, often due to fear, lack of confidence, or misunderstanding of their faith. By identifying and analyzing these barriers, we can better address them. The Bible teaches that grace, which precedes the law, can overcome these obstacles.
2 Timothy 1:7 (WEB):
“For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.”
This passage encourages believers to overcome fear, relying on the power, love, and self-control provided by the Holy Spirit to speak boldly about their faith.
Experience the Joy of Vocal Witnessing
Vocal witnessing is not just a duty; it is a source of joy. This joy is shared by the Father, the Son, others, and the one who witnesses. Joy becomes a powerful motivator for evangelism, as it stems from the fulfillment of doing God’s work.
Luke 15:7 (WEB):
“I tell you that even so there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance.”
The joy in heaven over a single sinner’s repentance underscores the immense value of vocal witnessing.
Overcome Barriers to Vocal Witnessing
Common excuses and barriers often hinder vocal witnessing. However, the role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in empowering believers to overcome these obstacles. The Holy Spirit provides the wisdom, courage, and words necessary to share the gospel effectively.
Romans 8:26 (WEB):
“In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don’t know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered.”
The Holy Spirit intercedes for us, helping us to overcome our weaknesses and become bold witnesses for Christ.
Develop Skills for “As You Go” Vocal Witnessing
Vocal witnessing is not confined to formal settings; it can and should happen as we go about our daily lives. Developing strategies for continuous witnessing, understanding our audience, and planning our approach are vital for effective evangelism.
1 Peter 3:15 (WEB):
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of being always prepared to share the reason for our hope, underscoring the need for readiness in vocal witnessing.
Prepare for Vocal Witnessing
Preparation is key to effective vocal witnessing. Practical examples and strategies equip us to be ready at all times. Understanding the relationship between law and grace in the Gospels further deepens our ability to share the gospel.
2 Timothy 2:15 (WEB):
“Give diligence to present yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, properly handling the word of truth.”
Diligence in preparation allows us to handle God’s word accurately and confidently in our witness.
Engage in Thoughtful Vocal Witnessing
Evangelism should be intentional and informed. Avoiding thoughtless approaches ensures that our witness is impactful. Learning from the early church’s history can provide valuable insights for today’s evangelism efforts.
Colossians 4:6 (WEB):
“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
Thoughtful speech, filled with grace and wisdom, enhances our witness, making it more effective and respectful.
Handle Objections to Vocal Witnessing
Objections to vocal witnessing are common, but developing strategies to respond effectively is crucial. Understanding freedom in Christ is essential to conveying the gospel’s message clearly and compellingly.
1 Peter 3:16 (WEB):
“Having a good conscience; that, while you are spoken against as evildoers, they may be disappointed who revile your good way of life in Christ.”
A clear conscience and a good way of life strengthen our witness and help us handle objections with grace.
Develop and Refine Vocal Witnessing Skills
Continuous development and refinement of our witnessing skills are necessary for effective evangelism. Cultivating listening skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to illustrate the gospel in context are crucial.
James 1:19 (WEB):
“So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”
Listening carefully before speaking ensures that our witness is relevant and well-received.
Evaluate and Reflect on Vocal Witnessing
Regular evaluation and reflection on our witnessing efforts help improve and sustain our evangelistic work. Engaging in reflective practices allows us to grow and become more effective in our witness.
Psalm 139:23-24 (WEB):
“Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.”
This prayerful reflection invites God to guide and improve our witnessing efforts, ensuring that we remain aligned with His will.
Conclude with Core Values and Next Steps
Summarizing the core values of vocal witnessing and planning for continued growth are essential for sustained evangelism. Reflecting on possible explanations for lack of success and considering ways to move forward are crucial for an effective witness.
Proverbs 16:3 (WEB):
“Commit your deeds to Yahweh, and your plans shall succeed.”
Committing our evangelistic efforts to God ensures that we are working within His plans, leading to success in our witness.
LEARN HOW TO SHARE YOUR FAITH
Sharing Christ with others is central to the Christian faith, fulfilling the Great Commission given by Jesus. But how do we effectively share the message of the gospel in a way that resonates with others and honors the truth of Scripture? This Ministry Sciences study explores key principles of sharing Christ, supported by biblical references from the World English Bible (WEB).
1. Understanding the Call to Share Christ
The foundation of sharing Christ begins with understanding the biblical mandate to do so. Jesus Himself commissioned His followers to spread the gospel to all nations.
Matthew 28:19-20 (WEB): “Go, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
This passage highlights the responsibility of every believer to share the gospel and make disciples. It is a command, not a suggestion, and it forms the basis for our efforts to spread the message of Christ.
2. Living a Life that Reflects Christ
Before we can effectively share Christ with others, our lives must reflect His teachings and character. Our actions, attitudes, and words should align with the gospel we preach.
Matthew 5:16 (WEB): “Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”
When we live out our faith authentically, others are drawn to the light of Christ within us. Our lives become a testimony that complements the message we share.
3. Sharing with Gentleness and Respect
The way we communicate the gospel is as important as the message itself. Scripture teaches us to share Christ with gentleness and respect, ensuring that we approach others with love and understanding.
1 Peter 3:15 (WEB): “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, with humility and fear.”
This verse emphasizes the need to be prepared to share our faith while maintaining a respectful and humble attitude. People are more likely to be receptive to the gospel when it is presented with compassion and empathy.
4. Using Scripture as the Foundation
When sharing Christ, it is essential to rely on the truth of Scripture. God’s Word is powerful and transformative, and it serves as the foundation for our message.
Hebrews 4:12 (WEB): “For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
By grounding our message in Scripture, we allow God’s Word to speak directly to the hearts of those we are trying to reach. The Bible provides the authority and power behind the message of Christ.
5. Building Relationships and Trust
Effective evangelism often begins with building genuine relationships. Jesus Himself spent time with people, getting to know them and meeting their needs before sharing deeper truths.
John 13:34-35 (WEB): “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Love is the key to building trust and forming relationships that open the door to sharing Christ. When we love others as Christ loves us, we create opportunities to share the gospel in a meaningful way.
6. Relying on the Holy Spirit
Sharing Christ is not something we do in our own strength. We must rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us, give us the words to say, and work in the hearts of those we are reaching.
Acts 1:8 (WEB): “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.”
The Holy Spirit empowers us to be effective witnesses, providing us with boldness and wisdom as we share the gospel. It is important to pray and seek the Spirit’s guidance in all our evangelistic efforts.
7. Persevering in the Face of Rejection
Not everyone will accept the message of Christ, and we may face rejection or even hostility. However, we are called to persevere and continue sharing the gospel with love and patience.
2 Timothy 4:2 (WEB): “Preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.”
This verse encourages us to be steadfast in our mission, whether the time seems favorable or not. Perseverance in sharing Christ is crucial, trusting that God’s Word will accomplish His purposes.
Conclusion
Sharing Christ is a vital part of the Christian faith, rooted in the Great Commission and empowered by the Holy Spirit. By living a life that reflects Christ, sharing with gentleness and respect, relying on Scripture, building relationships, and persevering in the face of challenges, we can effectively spread the message of the gospel. As we engage in this ministry, let us always remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:20 (WEB): “Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” With Christ by our side, we can confidently share His love and truth with the world
A REAL LIFE TESTIMONY
My name is Shannon Cox. I am married to my high school sweetheart, Ryan. I am a homemaker and homeschooling mother of two boys. We live in a small but rapidly growing rural town in Indiana, United States. Right after high school, I started college classes because I wanted to be a teacher—having summers off sounded wonderful. However, I wasn’t ready for college and soon 
dropped out. I became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and spent six years working as a Hospice CNA. I began nursing school but did not finish. I married my husband, and he gave me the option to stay home and raise our son, which I happily accepted. Over the years, I have struggled off and on with feeling accomplished as a homemaker. After my second son was born, I attempted to go back to school for the third time, this time for Veterinary Technology. Although I love animals, and our property is full of them, when it was time for me to put in hours at the office, I quickly realized that my calling did not lie there either. I needed to be home. I couldn’t find a way to balance family and work, and my priority was my family. I have felt like a failure on some level because I didn’t finish any of the degrees that I started. However, I have come to realize that those things didn’t pan out because they were not God’s plan for my life. Those were things I wanted to do, not what God had called me to do.
My Childhood
My story of salvation has not been completely linear. It’s been a process of healing and finding myself. My childhood was difficult in many ways and left me with a large amount of unresolved trauma that carried into my adult life. My mother suffered from drug addiction and spent her entire life, until her death, battling her addictions. Although my father had custody of my brother and me, he was neglectful of his role as a parent. My grandparents were my saving grace. My paternal grandmother was a faithful woman who loved the Lord with all of her heart. She planted the seed of faith in my heart when I was very young. She served as a living testimony of God’s love and grace, even on her deathbed. I was a lost little girl, but I knew I could call upon Jesus in times of need, and He would be there. I knew He loved me; I talked to Him often, and I believed in Him completely, but at that age, I didn’t yet understand how to truly make Him Lord of my life. During my high school years, life at home became turbulent. I moved out of my father’s house at 16 and into my maternal grandparents’ home. During this time, I first met Ryan, who years later would become my husband. He had plans for marriage, but I wasn’t ready, and we went our separate ways.
My Salvation
In the years that followed, I dated all the wrong guys, made all the wrong choices, and suffered abuse in relationships. I was still so lost. I had no value, no worth. Eventually, I became pregnant with my oldest son and gave birth in 2006. Not long after my son was born, I collapsed on the floor of my shower and cried out to Jesus. I begged Him to forgive me for the choices I had made, and I surrendered my life to His will. I could no longer do this alone; I needed my Savior. Almost instantaneously, change occurred in my life. Ryan’s sister reached out to me, invited me over to see her family, and they opened their home to my son and me. We were safe. We were in a Christian home. Ryan and I reconnected, and we were married six months later. Our life together began—he adopted my son as his own, we went to church regularly, I was baptized, and I began my walk with Christ. Things were not just good; they were amazing. I had the family unit I had always desired and prayed for, and I could see God’s hand in every bit of it.
Obstacles
After a few years of marriage, disagreements with extended family set in. We had a falling out, and I believe the loss of that family unit triggered the unresolved trauma buried within me. Traumatic memories from childhood and early adulthood started coming to the forefront of my mind. I went to the doctor and for therapy and was diagnosed with PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety. I was put on medication, which did help a little in the moment. It removed me from the danger zone, but it did not cure me. I felt better for a while, but then the depression and anxiety took hold again. I started isolating myself from relationships outside of my home. I was under immense spiritual attack. I was convinced that I was too broken for God’s complete forgiveness and that my husband and children would be better off without me. I was losing hope. I cried out to the Lord over and over again in prayer, and I started reading my Bible every day. I found that the more I filled my mind with God’s Word, the faster the enemy would flee. I found undeniable healing through the Word of God. I finally understood God’s grace and His plan for my life. I have a calling to serve others. I have a purpose. My relationship with God grew during this time, and it changed everything about my life. He truly became my living water.
My Spiritual Dream and CLI Training
My spiritual dream is that God will use me to help and reach those who are hurting. I dream of walking so closely with God that others will know His love and mercy through me, that His word will become so engraved in my heart that I will not stumble when finding the words of comfort others need to hear. My spiritual dream is that I clearly hear the voice of God and follow Him faithfully wherever He may lead me. I dream of being a faithful servant of God, continuing to walk closely with Him at all times in my life, and introducing others to the one true Healer. Christian Leaders Institute is pivotal in my life right now because I feel a very strong calling into service, but I also recognize the need for education. At this time in my family’s life, we are putting our oldest son through college, and soon we will have both boys in college. It would not be possible for me to pursue ministry training without Christian Leaders Institute.
SHARING FAITH
Based on Shannon’s Testimony
Sharing Christ with others is one of the most profound and impactful things a believer can do. It’s an act of love, a demonstration of grace, and a powerful testimony of how God transforms lives. Just as Shannon Cox’s testimony reveals, sharing Christ is not about having all the answers or being perfect; it’s about being real, authentic, and allowing God’s light to shine through our own experiences.
Here’s how you can share Christ effectively, using the principles evident in Shannon’s journey.
1. Be Genuine and Transparent
One of the most powerful ways to share Christ is by being genuine and transparent about your own journey. Shannon’s testimony is a perfect example of this. She openly discusses her struggles, her search for purpose, and how she found healing through Christ. People are drawn to authenticity, and when you share your own story with openness, it can resonate deeply with others.
Practical Tip: When sharing your testimony, don’t shy away from talking about the difficult moments or the times when you felt lost. These are the moments that often touch people the most because they see the reality of God’s grace at work in a broken world.
2. Connect Through Common Experiences
Shannon’s life experiences—struggling with career choices, dealing with unresolved trauma, and facing depression—are issues that many people can relate to. By sharing how Christ met her in those moments, Shannon connects with others who might be facing similar challenges.
Practical Tip: Identify common experiences you share with the person you’re speaking to. Whether it’s a shared background, a similar life event, or even a common struggle, these connections can serve as bridges to share how Christ has been the anchor in your life.
3. Highlight the Transformation
A key element of sharing Christ is showcasing the transformation that comes from following Him. Shannon’s life changed drastically after she surrendered to Jesus—she found peace, purpose, and a renewed sense of identity. This transformation is a testimony to the power of Christ in her life.
Practical Tip: Share specific examples of how your life has changed since you began following Christ. Whether it’s a newfound peace, a sense of direction, or healing from past wounds, these examples can powerfully illustrate the impact of Christ in your life.
4. Use Scripture as a Foundation
In her testimony, Shannon shares how reading the Bible daily became a source of healing and strength for her. Scripture is the foundation of our faith, and it’s essential to incorporate it when sharing Christ with others.
Practical Tip: When sharing your testimony or talking about your faith, include relevant Bible verses that have been meaningful to you. Scripture not only validates your experience but also introduces others to the truth and power of God’s Word.
5. Extend Grace and Love
Shannon’s story is filled with examples of how she received grace and love from others, and how that grace led her to Christ. When we share Christ, we should do so with the same grace and love that we have received.
Practical Tip: Approach conversations about Christ with a heart full of love and grace. Be patient, listen more than you speak, and show genuine concern for the person you are engaging with. Remember, it’s the kindness and love of Christ that draws people to repentance.
6. Encourage a Personal Relationship with Christ
Shannon’s journey to salvation wasn’t just about adopting a new set of beliefs—it was about entering into a personal relationship with Jesus. She emphasizes how this relationship transformed every aspect of her life.
Practical Tip: When sharing Christ, focus on the importance of a personal relationship with Him. Encourage others to not just know about Jesus, but to truly know Him—through prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking His presence in their daily lives.
7. Trust God with the Results
Finally, sharing Christ is not about forcing someone into a decision but planting seeds and trusting God with the outcome. Shannon’s story reminds us that it’s God who does the work in people’s hearts, not us.
Practical Tip: After sharing your testimony or talking about Christ, pray for the person and trust that God will continue to work in their life. Be available for follow-up conversations, but rest in the knowledge that God is in control.
8. Leverage Resources for Growth and Training
A significant part of Shannon’s journey involves recognizing her calling to serve others and seeking the necessary training to do so. Shannon found Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), an invaluable resource that offers free ministry training. This training has been pivotal in her life, allowing her to pursue her calling while balancing the needs of her family.
Practical Tip: If you feel called to ministry or want to deepen your understanding of God’s Word, seek out resources like CLI that offer affordable or free training. These resources can equip you to serve more effectively and help others grow in their faith.
Conclusion
Sharing Christ is an act of love and obedience to the Great Commission. By being genuine, connecting through shared experiences, highlighting transformation, using Scripture, extending grace, encouraging a personal relationship with Jesus, trusting God with the results, and leveraging available resources for growth, you can effectively share the hope and love that you have found in Christ. Just as Shannon’s testimony powerfully demonstrates, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being willing to let God use your story to touch the lives of others.
