What steps can we take to share our encounters with Jesus more effectively? Setting the Scene Mark 16:13 records, “And they went and reported it to the rest, but they did not believe them either.” Two disciples who had just walked with the risen Jesus hurried back to Jerusalem, eager to tell the Eleven. Their news was met with skepticism. From this brief verse we learn both the necessity and the challenge of sharing our encounters with Christ. Recognizing Our Role as Witnesses • Jesus entrusts ordinary followers, not just apostles, to spread the news. • Acts 1:8 affirms, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses…” • The pattern holds today: every believer who has met the risen Lord becomes a messenger. Step 1: Go with Confidence, Not Hesitation • The two disciples “went and reported.” They did not wait for perfect timing. • Courage flows from certainty; we know the resurrection literally happened (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Pray, then move—faith acts. Step 2: Speak of What You Have Personally Seen • 1 John 1:1-3 models firsthand testimony: “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard…” • Share specific moments when Scripture came alive, prayers were answered, sin was forgiven. • Personal stories cut through arguments and invite relationship. Step 3: Anticipate Skepticism—Remain Patient • “They did not believe them either.” Some hearts need time. • Romans 10:17: “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Keep the conversation open for future “hearings.” • Avoid offense; respond with grace and calm confidence. Step 4: Ground Your Story in the Word • Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that God’s word is “living and active.” • Combine your experience with clear Scripture: – Christ’s promise of rest (Matthew 11:28-30) – His offer of eternal life (John 3:16) • Let the Bible interpret your story and supply its authority. Step 5: Invite the Listener to Experience Jesus Directly • Philip’s simple reply to Nathanael, John 1:46: “Come and see.” • Offer to read a Gospel together, attend church, or pray right then. • Encounter with Christ, not mere information, produces faith. Step 6: Depend on the Spirit’s Empowering • John 15:26-27: the Spirit testifies about Jesus and enables us to testify. • Ask the Spirit for the right words, timing, and discernment. • Expect supernatural help; you are not persuading alone. Step 7: Keep Following Up and Walking in Love • Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing.” • Loving persistence shows authenticity. • 1 Corinthians 13:1 warns that eloquence without love is just noise. • Practical acts of service often validate the message you’ve spoken. Putting It All Together 1. Step out quickly when God opens a door. 2. Tell what Jesus has done for you in concrete terms. 3. Brace for doubt, but keep the dialogue gentle. 4. Anchor every story in clear Scripture. 5. Extend an invitation to meet Christ firsthand. 6. Rely on the Holy Spirit every moment. 7. Persevere in love, trusting God for the harvest. As we practice these steps, we echo the first witnesses who could not keep silent—and we trust the risen Lord to turn even initial unbelief into saving faith. |
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