Preparing to Proclaim: An Introduction to Evangelism
Trust God’s Promises and it Will be Okay!
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It’s not about you. And that’s a good thing!
A theme throughout this Bible study is that evangelism is far more about God than it is about us. It means that we can trust his promises.
I don’t think Peter was necessarily asking for the ability to walk on water but asking Jesus to perform a miracle.
Jesus only gave a one-word answer. Come.
That one word was enough for Peter. He didn’t need any more convincing nor did he need detailed instructions. He received that one word and stepped out of the boat.
Peter banked on Jesus’ promise when he gave him permission to walk on water. He took one giant step of faith and trusted that Jesus would somehow take care of the rest.
Only after Jesus rescued a sputtering Peter, he tells him, “You of little faith, why do you doubt?” A bewildered Jesus is saying, “Peter, how come you didn’t trust me when I told you to come?”
Here are some more promises Jesus gives us:
- “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” (Matthew 4:19)
- Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” (John 20:21)
- “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9)
- “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:8)
Take Action: See pages 6-7 of the study guide to answer questions for this topic.
I find it most difficult when speaking to a close family member! I have a brother that has fallen away and has become a recluse. I visit him regularly, taking him the latest meditations and books to share on faith and the future. After my parents death, my wife and I went through the house clearing it for sale, I found my brother’s confirmation class materials. I was much more detailed than when I went through, of course with a different pastor as my brother is 10 years younger. So I know he knows! But I continue to pray for guidance and keep patiently visiting him. But I find this more difficult than witnessing to a stranger!
Thanks. It is more difficult to proclaim the gospel to family members. The discussions can often be emotionally-laden. In these cases, I like the aspect of sprinkling truths of God’s Word in everyday conversations. In other words, 2-3 sentences that gives a reason for the hope we have in Christ is evangelism! And God works through those word! You know that your family member is ready to extend the conversation through a comment or a question. The challenge is keeping our emotions in check.