Believe

Just recently, a small team and I went out onto the streets of Spitalfields to hand out copies of Mark’s Gospel to passers-by. We had some incredible conversations, from speaking with an atheist teenager to a woman who said she would consider joining our church’s Bible study group.

We often think that giving someone a Bible might be difficult and that no one would be interested in what we have to say, but most of the time I find it to be the opposite.

In my role at Hope Together, I often hear similar stories from across the UK about how the Gospel is transforming lives. Victory Church in Cwmbran recently shared with us how they took to the streets with 1,000 copies of Mark’s Gospel. They set up a simple table, stacked with Gospels, and included an invitation to their latest Alpha course. They experienced a remarkable openness to faith as many people were genuinely interested in the Word of God. They were amazed by how many people took a copy of the Gospel and how many stopped to ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations.

In 2022, the Talking Jesus research revealed that 24% of practising Christians in the UK came to faith through reading the Bible. This statistic is a powerful reminder that the Word of God can change lives, bringing healing, hope, and salvation to those seeking meaning and purpose.

Today, we’re inviting you to share a Gospel or Bible with someone around you. Whether it’s a friend, a colleague, or even leaving one on the bus for a stranger to discover. Every one of us has someone in our lives who needs to encounter Jesus.

You could offer it with a simple message like, “You know I’m a Christian, and I base my whole life on the life and teachings of Jesus. Here’s a record of His life, written by someone who knew Him. Would you read it and let me know what you think?” Imagine if someone offered you a book with a personal story like this – wouldn’t you be curious to read it?

Choose a high-quality Gospel that shows thought and intention, not something that might be quickly discarded. I have found this to be especially important for younger generations, who are often the most open to learning more about Jesus.

You don’t need all the answers or to be ready to preach a sermon. Just the simple act of giving away a Gospel could open the door for someone to begin a journey of faith. Offering a Gospel is a gentle invitation to explore the truth of Jesus' life and teachings, allowing them to encounter Him for themselves.

As Christians, we are called to share the good news of Jesus. Let’s not underestimate the Word of God and the power it has to change lives.

Prayer:

Pray for boldness and wisdom to share the Gospel with others, trusting in the power of God’s Word to transform lives. Ask God to prepare the hearts of those who receive a Gospel or Bible, so that they might encounter Jesus and be open to His truth. Pray for opportunities to have meaningful conversations about faith, and for courage to step out in obedience, even when it feels daunting.

Take a 40acts challenge today:

1. Make a bookmark with a Bible verse or words of encouragement on it and gift it to someone.
2. Offer to be on the door at church. The welcome that you can extend to current, and newcomers can be such a witness of your faith in action!
3. Create a box of Bible verses for someone to open daily for a month or more. These reminders will be daily blessings.