THE FORGEنموونە

DAY #5: Sharing the World’s Greatest News

One of the greatest joys of life is sharing the best news in the world. The good news of the gospel of Jesus is infinitely more important than anything else we could talk about with anyone.

The Bible says to be “ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Pet. 3:15). Not to “quarrel,” but to be “gentle” and “patient” (2 Tim. 2:24). You can’t argue anyone into heaven. It’s ineffective and doesn’t work. Simply share the truth, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts.

Jesus modeled this beautifully. In John 4, during His encounter with a Samaritan woman at a well, He demonstrated how to engage someone respectfully in a difficult gospel conversation. This was someone of a different gender, nationality, background, and tradition. Jews and Samaritans were enemies, in fact. They didn’t interact. And yet Jesus initiated a conversation with her.

Surprised by His audacity, the woman at first became defensive. She repeatedly gave Him reasons why she was not open to Him or His message. But her resistance didn’t bother Jesus. He remained very patient and gently persistent. He knew she needed the gospel much more than she needed the water she was drawing from the well. So, He masterfully connected her felt need with her deeper need. He drew her in with sincere compassion and kindness.

Though she remained guarded, He gently exposed her hidden sin and then offered her the hope of the gospel through Him. The Holy Spirit was at work. By the end of their meeting, she had completely changed her mind about Jesus and was excited to share Him with everyone in her city. Her testimony went on to greatly impact the people around her.

Watching God use you to help someone come to know Christ is THE most exhilarating and life-changing experience on earth. It never gets old! When you see a heart change as God makes someone into a new person, you’ll be amazed all over again at the power of the gospel. So stay open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Keep praying and abiding in Jesus. God can do great things through your life and your willingness to share Him with others.

Not only will someone else’s life never be the same. Neither will yours.

Thank you for reading!

This plan was adapted from Devoted to Jesus: From First Steps to Fully Surrendered by Stephen Kendrick and Alex Kendrick, part of THE FORGE's family of resources. Click Here to learn more about where you can see the movie and the resources to help you in your disciple-making journey.