5 Things to keep in mind to grow your evangelism passion

In an article I read at Mark Robert’s blog on missional living, there is the following:

Q: “Even though you talk about ‘just being honest,’ I’m still not comfortable with the idea of sharing my faith with others. What would you suggest to help me get started?”

He answered:

Years ago someone admitted to me:

“Evangelism is such a pain. It just makes me feel guilty. I wish I didn’t have to think about it.”

As I reflected upon his confession, I framed a simple model for getting started in sharing Christ.

I called it the “P.A.I.N.S. of Evangelism.” . . . .

1. Prayer.

Since evangelism is primarily God’s work, begin by praying.

Confess your hesitations and fears to God.

Ask him to give you courage.

Ask for a wide open door to share your faith with someone.

Pray for those in your life who don’t know the Lord. . . .

2. Availability.

If you are available, God will use you.

As you pray, tell the Lord that you are open to be used to share the good news.

Then, as you go about your normal business, remain available.

God will sometimes give you a chance to share when you least expect it.

3. Invitation.

Don’t panic! . . . . I’m encouraging you to invite people to gatherings where they will hear the good news. . . . . .

I have seen many tongue-tied Christians help lead a friend to Christ simply by inviting that friend to a place where someone else does most of the talking about Jesus.

4. Neighborliness.

Scripture teaches you to love your neighbor as yourself.

If you keep this in mind, God will open up opportunities for you to speak easily about Jesus.

Moreover, your love will pave the way for a open-minded hearing of what you have to say.

5. Sharing.

When God opens a door, walk through it. In an honest and humble way, simply share with people your faith in Christ. You don’t have to preach.

You don’t have to pretend to be the Bible Answer Man.

Simply explain what Jesus means to you and how he has enabled you to be reconciled to God.

As you share, the Spirit will help you.

I think this is a great little ACRONYM to consider as a reminder in keeping our personal evangelistic fires hot.

I’m more and more convinced that personal evangelism is fueled by prayer.

Prayer not only prepares the way, but it also prepares you for the work of evangelism.

Let me ask you this?

Who do you know who is apart from Christ that you can pray for right now?

Spend a few minutes before leaving this article and pray.

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