What obstacles might we face when sharing the gospel, and how can we overcome them? Setting the Scene in Luke 9:6 “So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.” Jesus had just “called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to heal diseases” (Luke 9:1). He sent them with His word, His power, and His commission. Their success—and their challenges—mirror ours today. Common Obstacles Then—and Now • Fear of rejection —People may dismiss, ridicule, or oppose us. (Luke 9:5; John 15:18) • Spiritual opposition —“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Lack of resources or confidence —The Twelve carried “no staff, no bag, no bread, no money” (Luke 9:3). • Distractions and busyness —So many villages, so little time; the harvest is still great (Luke 10:2). • Cultural hostility or misinformation —People in Jesus’ day misunderstood Messiah; today many misunderstand Christ and His church. • Self-reliance —Relying on personal charisma instead of God’s authority leads to burnout (Acts 1:8). Biblical Strategies for Victory • Rest in Christ’s authority —“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go” (Matthew 28:18-19). • Depend on the Spirit’s power —“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). • Keep the message simple and clear —“We preach Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23). • Practice prayerful preparation —Paul asked, “Pray that words may be given me… to boldly make known the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Embrace rejection as part of obedience —Jesus said, “Whoever listens to you listens to Me… whoever rejects you rejects Me” (Luke 10:16). • Live the gospel while speaking it —The apostles combined preaching with healing; our acts of mercy validate our words (James 2:16-17). • Travel light, trust big —By taking little, the Twelve demonstrated total dependence on God’s provision; we show the same when we refuse to let material concerns silence us (Philippians 4:19). • Cultivate compassion over condemnation —Jesus “felt compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd” (Mark 6:34). Genuine love melts many defenses. • Share in community —The disciples were sent out two by two (Mark 6:7). Accountability and encouragement strengthen resolve. • Persist with eternal perspective —“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). Opposition now, glory later. Living It Out Today 1. Begin every day acknowledging Christ’s authority over your schedule and conversations. 2. Ask the Holy Spirit to open eyes and hearts before you open your mouth. 3. Carry a short, personal testimony ready to share at any moment. 4. Look for tangible ways to serve those you’re speaking to; let kindness precede conversation. 5. Rejoice in obedience, not results—leave the harvest to God. 6. When rejection comes, shake the dust emotionally: release the hurt, pray for the person, move on. 7. Gather weekly with believers who also share their faith; trade stories, pray, and spur one another on. Key Verses to Memorize • Luke 9:6 — “They set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.” • Acts 4:31 — “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect.” • Ephesians 6:19-20 — Paul’s prayer for bold proclamation. The same Lord who sent the Twelve still sends us. He provides the power, overcomes the obstacles, and promises a harvest that will echo into eternity. |
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