Witness: Be the Ripple Effect in Your Sphere of InfluenceSample

How to Witness

Let’s say you’ve heard about some “hot” new trend that in some ways seems too good to be true. You’re interested but skeptical. Would you be more likely to jump in if a trusted friend shared their positive experience with you? Of course you would.

As Christians, we’re all called to be a witness -- it’s a universal calling. Scripture tells us in Matthew 28:18-20 that everyone who loves Jesus is to go out and make disciples of all nations, it’s what we refer to as The Great Commission. Being a “witness” is as simple as taking what Jesus did in your life and sharing it with someone else so they can experience him too. God has strategically placed you in your life today to share the Gospel with those around you, to be the ripple effect in your sphere of influence.

We all know someone who is on the verge of giving up, of having no hope. When you share what Jesus has done for you, you can affect not only who you tell, but everyone around them as well -- the ripple effect of sharing your faith. When you accepted Christ into your life, the freedom he gave you was not a means of escape but an opportunity to share your story with others and care more about others than yourself, especially unsaved friends, family, and neighbors. That is your mission field -- for you to not just talk with them once, but stay in contact and build relationships so they see Christ in you. A popular Christian song by Ann Wilson, My Jesus, reflects this sentiment.

Are you past the point of weary? Is your burden weighing heavy? Is it all too much to carry?

Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus

Do you feel that empty feeling? 'Cause shame's done all its stealing. And you're desperate for some healing, Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus

He makes a way where there ain't no way, Rises up from an empty grave, Ain't no sinner that He can't save, Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus. His love is strong and His grace is free.

And the good news is I know that He can do for you what He's done for me, Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus and let my Jesus change your life

Think about the reflection questions for ideas of what you can share, practice sharing it then go and tell what God has done for you.

Reflection Questions:

1. Can you think of a miracle Jesus has done in your life that you can share with others? What happened?
2. Who is your mission field -- in other words, who in your everyday life do you know that needs to learn about Jesus? If asked, who can you reach out to this week?
3. Will you commit to inviting five people over the next 12 months?
4. Witnessing is really just telling the story of God in our lives. Let’s start with what life was like for you before you met Jesus and what’s changed since? What has God done in your life lately?
5. What do you love about your church and why?