How can Acts 18:8 encourage you to share your faith with non-believers? The Verse in Focus: Acts 18:8 “Crispus, the synagogue leader, believed in the Lord together with his entire household; and many of the Corinthians who heard believed and were baptized.” Why This Single Sentence Fuels Confidence • It records real, historic conversions—proof that God’s message still penetrates hearts. • The synagogue leader’s public faith shows the gospel’s power to reach people others might assume are unreachable. • An entire household follows, reminding us that one decision can ripple through families. • “Many of the Corinthians” respond after simply hearing; effective evangelism is ultimately God’s work, not our eloquence (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:6). • Immediate baptism highlights visible commitment—encouraging us to invite new believers to take clear next steps. Lessons for Sharing Your Faith Today • Expect God to surprise you. If Crispus could believe, so might the skeptic in your office or the relative at Thanksgiving. • Speak up even when the setting feels intimidating; Paul was in a synagogue among learned Jews, yet God opened ears (Acts 18:4–5). • Trust the Word itself. People “heard” and believed—God’s truth carries its own authority (Romans 10:17). • Don’t underestimate household influence. Share with parents, grandparents, and children; God often works through family lines (Acts 16:31–34). • Celebrate and publicize changed lives. Crispus’s conversion became known and stirred more faith; testimonies still do that today. Supporting Scriptures That Echo This Encouragement • Matthew 28:19–20—Jesus commissions every disciple to “go” and “make disciples,” promising His presence. • Romans 1:16—The gospel “is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes,” reinforcing that power doesn’t rest in us. • 2 Corinthians 5:20—“We are ambassadors for Christ,” called to plead with others to be reconciled to God. • Acts 1:8—The Holy Spirit empowers witness “to the ends of the earth,” ensuring we’re never alone in sharing. Practical Next Steps 1. Pray specifically for one “Crispus” in your life—a leader or influencer who could impact many. 2. Share a concise testimony; keep the focus on what Jesus has done, not on your impressive delivery. 3. Invite friends or family to read a Gospel with you over coffee; let Scripture speak just as it did in Corinth. 4. Encourage immediate, public steps of faith—baptism, church involvement, serving—so new believers shine as living proof. 5. Keep celebrating every conversion story, big or small, to refresh courage in your own heart and in your church family. Final Encouragement The same Lord who opened Crispus’s heart and drew many Corinthians is still at work. Step out, speak up, and watch Him turn today’s listeners into tomorrow’s bold believers. |
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