CoJourners: Learning to Share Your FaithSample
Surprisingly Close
If you had been with Jesus, you may not have suspected the spiritual openness of this man. He was a teacher of the law. That group gave Jesus the most trouble, a group he condemned for hypocrisy (Matthew 23). While most people in this social group were resistant and hostile to Jesus, this man wasn’t. Nor was Nicodemus, a Pharisee counter-part (John 3:1-21; 19:38-40). Both men illustrate that a person’s religious background or social status does not determine spiritual proximity, but rather it is the response to Jesus.
We sometimes make assumptions about other peoples’ spiritual interest or openness, based on their background, behavior, or even how they look. Those assumptions are often wrong and keep us from entering into significant conversations about Christ. The only certain way to know where people are spiritually is to talk with them.
Thought: Never assume you know another person’s spiritual condition without asking.
Take a Step: Identify someone you have assumed is spiritually closed. Ask that person about his religious background. If he declines, simply thank him. If he seems negative, ask if he has had a bad experience or been turned off by religion. For now make your goal to understand.
Scripture
About this Plan
Helping another person come to Christ is one of our greatest privileges as a believer. Yet it can also be intimidating for many of us. The Bible provides insights and encouragement to equip and engage us in the process. Three important truths lay the foundation: Everyone is on a spiritual journey, God is already at work, and he wants to use you. Join us for this 28-day journey together.
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We would like to thank Cru for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/share-the-gospel/evangelism-principles/cojourners.html