What steps can we take to bring others to Jesus as in Matthew 14:34? Setting the Scene: Matthew 14:34–36 “When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding region and brought to Him all who were sick, and begged Him that they might just touch the fringe of His cloak. And all who touched Him were healed.” (Matthew 14:34-36) Step 1: Recognize Jesus Personally • Those “men of that place recognized Jesus.” • Genuine outreach begins with a clear, personal grasp of who He is (John 1:29; Philippians 3:8). • Make time daily to know His character through Scripture and obedience (John 14:21). Step 2: Respond Without Delay • “They sent word” immediately—no hesitation. • Prompt obedience guards us from excuses (James 4:17). • Act while enthusiasm is fresh. Step 3: Spread the Word Locally • They alerted “all the surrounding region.” • Start where God has planted you—family, friends, workplace (Acts 1:8). • Share natural, personal testimonies of Christ’s work in your life (Mark 5:19). Step 4: Bring the Needy to Jesus • They “brought to Him all who were sick.” • Identify practical ways to help people encounter Him: – Offer a ride to church or a study. – Share a meal while discussing Scripture. – Offer tangible help that reflects His love (Galatians 6:10). Step 5: Encourage Simple, Active Faith • The crowd believed touching His cloak was enough. • Point people to act on even mustard-seed faith (Matthew 17:20). • Avoid complicating the gospel—keep the focus on trusting Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Step 6: Trust Jesus for the Results • “All who touched Him were healed.” • Our task is introduction; His power secures the transformation (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Rejoice in His sufficiency, not our performance. Step 7: Keep the Momentum Going • Healings produced wider testimony (Matthew 9:31). • After God moves, testify to sustain faith in others. • Disciple new believers so they, too, become bringers (2 Timothy 2:2). Putting It All Together 1. Know Jesus. 2. Act quickly. 3. Proclaim widely. 4. Assist practically. 5. Foster simple faith. 6. Depend on His power. 7. Multiply the effort. Following these steps from Matthew 14 equips us to usher others into life-changing contact with the living Christ, confident that “He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him” (Hebrews 7:25). |
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