What practical steps can we take to better share the gospel message? Taking Romans 10:16 to Heart “But not all of them welcomed the good news. For Isaiah says, ‘Lord, who has believed our message?’” (Romans 10:16) The Spirit draws back the curtain on reality: even when the gospel is lovingly proclaimed, many still turn away. Yet the command to speak remains, and the promise of harvest still stands (Matthew 9:37-38). Scripture is accurate, literal, and living; it calls us to action no matter how people respond. Recognizing Resistance Is Normal • Isaiah prophesied the same reluctance centuries earlier (Isaiah 53:1). • Jesus warned that the world would hate His followers as it hated Him (John 15:18-20). • Understanding this frees us from discouragement and keeps our focus on faithful obedience rather than immediate results. Practical Steps to Communicate the Gospel • Saturate your mind with the Word: “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Daily Bible intake equips us to speak truth accurately. • Pray intentionally for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3-4). • Cultivate genuine relationships—people more readily listen to friends than strangers. • Share your testimony. A changed life is powerful evidence (Mark 5:19). • Keep the message clear: mankind’s sin, Christ’s death and resurrection, repentance, and faith (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Distribute Scripture portions or gospel tracts; God’s Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). • Involve your local church—evangelism flourishes in community. Grounding Every Word in Scripture The authority rests in God’s Word, not personal opinion. Quoting and explaining Scripture allows the Spirit to work (Hebrews 4:12). When possible, open a Bible and let seekers read the verses for themselves. Relying on the Holy Spirit’s Power “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses…” (Acts 1:8). Techniques have value, yet lasting fruit comes only through the Spirit. Dependence on Him turns ordinary conversations into divine appointments. Living What We Preach “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Integrity, kindness, and sacrificial love validate the spoken message. Hypocrisy, on the other hand, builds walls that words can’t tear down. Speaking with Clarity and Compassion “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt…” (Colossians 4:5-6). • Use everyday language, avoiding insider jargon. • Listen well; people feel valued when heard. • Respond gently, even when challenged (1 Peter 3:15). • Keep the conversation focused on Christ rather than secondary issues. Dependence on Prayer Paul constantly asked believers to pray “that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified” (2 Thessalonians 3:1). Energetic, persistent prayer fuels every other step and invites God to prepare hearts long before we speak. Trusting God with the Results Some will welcome the good news; others will not. Our task is proclamation—God handles regeneration (John 6:44). Faithful sowing, empowered by the Spirit and grounded in Scripture, ensures that every opportunity to share the gospel counts for eternity. |
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