For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13
Help out and make sure that the person will:
Find a Church. Say, "Now you will need to find a church, so you can join the family of God. The church will be there to lead you down the path of Christian living. They are not only spiritual guides, but also can be very close friends. They will always be there when you need them. You should seek a church that is growing in Jesus Christ in three priorities. First-worship, praise, and study. Second- growing in a relationship with other believers and discipleship. Third-reaching out to friends, neighbors, and the world."
Get a Bible. Say, "A Bible is one of the most important tools for a Christian. I would recommend an NLT (New Living Translation) or the NIV (New International Version). A study Bible is the best such as The New Reformation Study Bible or the New International Study Bible. If you would rather read a more literal translation of the Bible, you should get a NASB (New American Standard) or the NKJV (New Kings James version) or the good old KJV (King James Version)." (Although this is the most beautiful language, most people will not understand it.) Give them one of the Bible Reading Charts available on our website, www.intothyword.org
Pray Daily. Say, "Praying is another important factor. Pick a time every day when you have quiet time to pray. This could be before you go to bed or when you get up in the morning." See our article, "Drawing Near to the Heart of God," and others on our Discipleship Channel for more information and helps.
The extraordinary is not in the campaigns or events; it is in your sharing of Him. Do not let your fears of falling keep you off the horse. Persevering in our willingness to be a witness is essential. It is about getting back on the horse once we fall off or we will fear to ever ride it again. We need to realize that some of the most remarkable and exciting events that may go on in your church are not on its campus; it is rather where you are with another person, making a connection and sharing Christ. What is the key to keep persevering in your witness? It is to keep your eyes on God, not on people! If you only seek God for your "felt" needs, you will never understand or rely on God for your "real" needs! Neither will you understand yourself or His wonderful plan for you. Your faith will be on your terms only, and no persevering in the faith will come about there. How sad that would be. How much you would lose.
For more ideas as to how to actually explain the gospel, see "Tools for the Trade," at www.evangelismtoolbox.com
To order copies of the "Four Spiritual Laws" booklet, call Campus Crusade at 1-800-729-4351 1-800-873-5222. http://www.worldchangers.net
Questions to Ponder
1. How has your life been your witness? Are you confident that you know what to do and say to lead a person to Christ? Do you know where and how to start?
2. Are you a person who succeeds at building and continuing healthy relationships? If not, why not?
3. Have you been encouraging, non-confrontational, loving, kind, and gentle in your attempts to witness? How so? Why not?
4. Can you name five people whom you have not told about Christ, then commit to pray for them and pay attention for an opportunity to share? What is in your way from accomplishing this? How will you remove the obstruction?
To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. Proverbs 21:3
Some passages to consider: Psalm 1:2-3; Proverbs 21:3; Isaiah 55:11; John 3:15-17; 6:44; Romans 10:17; 1 Corinthians 2:3-4; Ephesians 2:8-9; Philippians 2:13; 2 Peter 1:5-8; Philemon 6
© 2006, Richard J. Krejcir, Ph.D. Schaeffer Institute of Church Leadership, www.churchleadership.org
