How to Talk to Someone about Jesus

Not everyone wants Jesus. But more do than we realize. We cannot predict what our love will do and who will receive it. We also cannot let this unpredictability keep us from explaining the hope we have in Him. Let’s refuse to live afraid to share our faith with others because we’re not sure what to say, how to say it, or how it will be received. If love is our motivation, if the Bible is daily getting in us, then it’s the Holy Spirit who does the transforming as we do the translating.

Consider the open door strategy: if the door is open, talk to them about Jesus. Don’t ignore that prompting you sense to talk about Him. Help people see Jesus around them. When you listen to their stories, invite them to consider God’s presence. By learning to pay attention to people’s stories, we can see God at work. First, Jesus must matter to us. Second, we must see others as worth the work of learning to speak their language.

Prod with questions: Do you think this might be God getting your attention? Where do you think this love comes from? What is your identity wrapped up in? What/why do you think you are on this earth? How have you been able to accomplish what you have thus far?

Let’s introduce people to the love of Jesus that is available to them and visible in us. This is the Good News we have heard and will tell. When you’re in conversation with someone about Jesus, it will be up to them to respond.

Evangelism isn’t coercion or conversion but a caring conversation: I’ve got something so good to share it’d be ridiculous for me to keep it from you! It’s what happened when the Samaritan woman met Jesus, went back to her people, and said, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did” (John 4:29 NIV).

Prayer: Jesus, You’ve done so much for me and my friends and family. Help me engage in listening to their stories. Holy Spirit, speak to me and show me how best to introduce You in ways that show others how much You love them.